An open assault indeed from the whole body of besiegers, whose number was reckoned by Nathan at full fifteen or twenty, must have produced the same success, though with the loss of several lives.

A random shot might at any moment destroy or disable one of the little garrison, and thus rob one important corner of the hovel, which, from its dilapidated state was wholly indefensible from within of defence.

It was indeed, as Roland felt, more than folly to hope that all should escape unharmed for many hours longer.

But the worst fear of all was that previously suggested by Nathan: all might survive the perils of the night; but what fate was to be expected when the coming of day should expose the party, in all its true weakness, to the eyes of the enemy?
If relief came not before morning, Roland's heart whispered him, it must come in vain.

But the probabilities of relief, what were they?
The question was asked of Nathan, and the answer went like iron through Roland's soul.