They say there is no use in firing at you, but they are resolved to kill you and the miss-sahib, or carry her off if she escapes the assault." "What assault ?" "Protector of the poor, they are building scaling-ladders--four in all.
Soon after dawn they intend to rush your position.

You may slay some, they say, but you cannot slay three score.

Taung S'Ali has promised a gold _tauk_[Footnote: A native ornament.] to every man who survives if they succeed.

They have pulled down your signal on the high rocks and are using the poles for the ladders.

They think you have a _jadu_[Footnote: A charm.] sahib, and they want to use your own work against you." This was serious news.