When Paolo took some supper round to the two ladies, he returned
with a message that they hoped Colonel Campbell would join them
in their meal.

"See that the sentries are on the alert, Mieville," he said as he
got up from the fire round which he and the three officers were
sitting; "you must remember that these poor fellows are desperate.
Of course you and I know that they can do themselves no good by
attacking castles and burning chateaux, but were we in their place
-- famished, despairing, and ignorant -- we should doubtless do the
same. And although, with men as well disciplined as ours, there
would be little chance of the peasants overpowering us, they
may trust in their numbers, and would believe that if they could
destroy us, the whole country might well rise and join them.
Should there be any sign of trouble, call me instantly."

Two sentries had been placed at the door of the outhouse, and as
he entered Hector said, "Keep good watch, men, and if you hear
any noise that might betoken the approach of a body of men, warn
me at once."

"I heard what you said to the sentries, Colonel Campbell; do you
think that there is any danger?"

"No danger, I trust, madam, for I am convinced that we could beat
off any number. Still, I do think that there is a possibility of
our being attacked. The peasants know that we are but a company.
They may send to all the villages round and call on them to come
and revenge those who have been slain. The people of the hills are
strong fellows -- wood cutters, charcoal burners, and shepherds --