"Straight across, and into the barracoon itself," I panted, making a great show of hurry and excitement; and the Frenchmen streamed through the gate like a flock of sheep.  As the last man entered, I flung the gate to, dropped the bar into its place, and blew a piercing blast on a whistle which I carried.  Then, replacing the whistle in my pocket, I drew forth a pistol, and placed my back against the gate.