The approaches to the place were occupied in force, and bastilles closely connected one with another were constructed around the walls.

As a set-off, the most valiant warriors of France, La Hire, Dunois, Xaintrailles, and the Marshal La Fayette threw themselves into Orleans, the garrison of which amounted to scarcely twelve hundred men.
Several towns, Bourges, Poitiers, and La Rochelle, sent thither money, munitions, and militia; the states-general, assembled at Chinon, voted an extraordinary aid; and Charles VII.

called out the regulars and the reserves.

Assaults on the one side and sorties on the other were begun with ardor.

Besiegers and besieged quite felt that they were engaged in a decisive struggle.