Original: A spasmodic exchange of gunfire began; in mid-afternoon the crowd was reinforced by mutinous Gardes FranÃ aises of the Royal Army, and two cannons, all of which were originally supposed to help the governor protect the prison.
Simplified: There was some gunfire, but by mid-afternoon the crowd was supported by mutinous Gardes FranÃ aises of the Royal Army and two cannons.