"Let us lead you back thither to receive the plaudits you have so
well deserved," spoke Dunois, who was man enough to give all the
credit of the victory to the Maid. "Right valiantly have you
accomplished your task. Now let us take you to receive the
gratitude of the town."
"Accomplished!" repeated the Maid with a glance of surprise. "Why,
my friends, the task is scarcely yet begun!"
They gazed at her in amazement; but she calmly pointed towards the
frowning walls and battlements of St. Loup.
"We must take yonder tower," she said quietly, "that is what our
brave, but rash young officers set themselves to do. They shall not
be disappointed. It shall be ours ere night fall upon us. Call to
me the bold De Gamache; I would have speech with him and his
comrades."
The greater Generals looked at her and at one another, speaking no
word. The walls and battlements of St. Loup were strong and well
defended. The tower could spout fire and smoke like a living
monster. Already the troops had marched far and fought hotly.
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