He realized how desperate they were did he remain, and even as he thought he glanced sharply round.
Dim indeed was the light, but his sight was keen, and quickened by the imminence of danger.

Partly his eyes and partly his instinct told him that not six paces behind him there must be a door, and if Heaven pleased it should be unlocked, behind it they must look for shelter.
It even crossed his mind in that second of crowding, galloping thought, that perchance the room might be occupied.

That was a risk he must take--the lesser risk of the two, the choice of one of which was forced upon him.

He had determined all this ere the soldier's foot was upon the third step of the staircase, and before the colonel had commenced the ascent.

Kenneth stood palsied with fear, gazing like one fascinated at the approaching peril.
Then upon his ear fell the fierce whisper: "Come with me, and tread lightly as you love your life." In three long strides, and by steps that were softer than a cat's, Crispin crossed to the door which he had rather guessed than seen.