But here on the flat their beasts, scenting home, answered nobly to whip and spur, and drew ahead a little.

Moreover, those who watched within the house saw them, and ran to the drawbridge.

When they were within fifty yards of the moat Cicely's horse stumbled, slipped, and fell, throwing her into the snow, then recovered itself and galloped on alone.

Christopher reined up alongside of her, and, as she rose, frightened but unharmed, put out his long arm, and, lifting her to the saddle in front of him, plunged forward, while those behind shouted "Yield!" Under this double burden his horse went but slowly.

Still they reached the bridge before any could lay hands upon them, and thundered over it.
"Wind up," shouted Christopher, and all there, even the womenfolk, laid hands upon the cranks.