"I believe they're making an attack!" The next instant the men in the balcony were leaving it pell-mell, picking up the ever-ready rifles as they dashed off through the halls and out into the park.

What they had seen at the gate--which was one rarely used--was sufficient to demand immediate action on their part; a demonstration of some sort was in progress at this particular entrance to the grounds.

Saunders was left behind with instructions to guard the chateau against assault from other sources.

Headed by Chase, the four men hurried across the park, prepared for an encounter at the gate.

They kept themselves as well covered as possible by the boxed trees, although up to this time there had been no shooting.
Chase, in advance, suddenly gave vent to a loud cry and boldly dashed out into the open, disregarding all shelter.