Apparently the flames had nothing to contend against, for they were making terrible strides into the darkness.
"Oh!" shouted Richard, overcome by excitement, "if I had my telescope! We must have it! Let me go and fetch it! I Will!" The boys struggled together, and Sir Austin stepped back.

As he did so, a cry was heard in the passage.

He hurried out, closed the chamber, and came upon little Clare lying senseless along the door..