Yells and shrieks followed each shot through the door, and after three or
four minutes the troopers drew off.

"Any one hurt?" the major asked.

"I have got a bullet in my shoulder," said Captain Dunlop.

But that was the only reply. There was a shout outside, and Manners
exclaimed: "Confound the fellows, they have got a big log of wood that
will soon splinter the door."

"We must stop them as long as we can," said the major, as he fired among
the men who were advancing with the log.

Several Sepoys fell before they got up to the house, but they pressed on,
and, at the first blow given by the battering-ram driven by the men, the
door split from top to bottom.

"Fix bayonets," the major said. "Now, Manners, you and I will hold them
back. Not more than two can come at once, and their swords are of no use
against bayonets in a narrow space. Dunlop, will you stand in reserve? you
have still got your right hand; use your bayonet as a dagger if a rush
comes. Boys, you go on loading and firing; put in four balls each time. If
they get in, of course use your bayonets; there goes the door!"

A shout burst from the natives as the last portion of the door dropped
from its hinges, and the doorway was open. There was, however, no
inclination betrayed to make a rush.