The batteries of the defenders opened with equal violence, and their musketry answered that of the assailants on the opposite bank.
"I think that that must be the signal for Cathelineau to begin," Martin said.
And, ten minutes later, the attack commenced with fury upon the gates of Vannes, Rennes, and that by the river.
Every window was opened, and anxious faces looked out.

The night was dark, and the few oil lamps alone threw a feeble light on the square.

Suddenly a broad glare rose to the west, and the murmur, "There is a house on fire!" passed from mouth to mouth.

In another few minutes flames were seen rising at a dozen points, and a cry of consternation arose.
"The brigands have entered the town! They are going to burn it to the ground." Man after man of the little group of National Guards, who had been gathered talking in front of the door of the prison, was seen to detach himself from it and to move quietly away.

Then those at the windows noticed four or five parties of men move forward, from among those who were standing talking; when within a short distance of the guard there was a sharp command, and these groups all rushed towards the gates together.