noon
He was a skilful leader . He took his followers by a multitude of back streets , avoiding every point where soldiers were likely to be . Every man was valuable , and to lose even one in a skirmish which could achieve nothing was to jeopardize the success of the rebellion to that extent . He constantly turned aside to avoid some particular corner which the scouts sent on before reported occupied ; but although this often necessitated returning for some distance along the way they had come , he managed gradually to approach the place of rendezvous , until a little before noon he had brought his band into an alley opening out of one of the streets which led directly into the Grande Place . `` An excellent battle ground for us , '' he said , turning to Ellerey . `` The space is confined , narrow streets abound for us to fight in , which will prevent the soldiers rushing us or bringing guns into action . '' Ellerey nodded , but his heart was heavy .