Hmmm
Pauke is a kettledrum
Pauken is to cram, swot, as in for an exam.
Auf die Pauke hauen (to beat the drum) means in its idiomatic form to have a binge.
So you can imagine Galland and co saying, C'mon chaps, lass uns auf die Pauke hauen, as they swooped into attack. Let's get at 'em!
Hope this helps.
cheers