Malcolm now felt secure against the attacks of thirst for some days to come.

The stones of the parapet were next tried, and were without much trouble moved from their places, and were all carried to the side in which the door was situated, in readiness to hurl down upon any who might assault it.

Some of the beams of the upper flooring were removed from their places, and being carried down, were wedged against the upper part of the door, securing it as firmly as did the stones below.

These preparations being finished, Malcolm took a survey of the situation outside.
The group of peasants had increased largely, some thirty or forty men armed with pikes, bills, and scythes being gathered in a body, while many more could be seen across the country hurrying over the white plain towards the spot.

The windows of the lower apartment had been barricaded with planks, partly to keep out missiles, partly for warmth.