On the other hand, when the besiegers resolved on a last and grand assault they sent notice thereof the day before to the garrison.

Yet, after that, the latter lay down like tired animals to sleep the night through, while Barrett and his comrades watched and waited anxiously.

The stormers came with the dawn, and were over the stockade before the Whites could rouse the sleepers.

Then, however, after a desperate tussle--one of those sturdy hand-to-hand combats in which the Maori fighter shone--the assailants were cut down or driven headlong out.

With heavy loss the astonished Waikatos recoiled in disgust, and their retreat did not cease till they reached their own country.
Even this victory could not save Taranaki.