Simplify the following text for a Grade 10 native English-speaking person.
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 .