six
o'clock
The three imprisoned officers opened their last comfort , a half bottle of champagne , and drank success to their comrades . Several of the troops died while the fighting was going on , the excitement being too much for their weakened frames . At last the Ashantis were seen flying in terror . Then the two buglers blew out the general salute , time after time till , at six o'clock , the head of the relief column came in view . The gate was thrown open , and those of the little garrison who were able to stand went out , to welcome their rescuers . Five star shells were fired , to tell those left behind at Ekwanter that the relief was accomplished . Then the outlying quarters were occupied , and all slept with the satisfaction that their struggles and efforts had not been in vain , and that they had succeeded in relieving Coomassie .