eight in the morning
Some twenty revolvers had fallen into their hands in the two fights , and with these the officers had all armed themselves . A certain portion of the men cut long sticks , like ox-goads , made to fit the bayonets ; others fitted short handles to their scythes , while others carried short heavy sticks , to which again bayonets were fitted . A hundred of those dressed as soldiers were to carry their muskets , and , under the orders of one of their leaders , to march boldly down the street , so timing their arrival as to reach the square just at the time at which the execution was to take place , while the rest were to mix with the crowd . Late at night the news was brought to them that proclamations had been posted through the town , saying that the execution would take place at eight in the morning in the grand square . Orders had been issued , it was learnt , that 1000 troops should be present , and the others were ordered to be in readiness in their barracks , in case any sign of popular feeling should be manifested . As it was evident , therefore , that no soldiers in uniform would be loitering in the street , it was determined that the 250 men so dressed should march together to the square with their arms . In the morning the insurgents , in twos and threes , started for the town , and joined the town 's - people assembling in the great square .