He called to his two levies: "Quick! Break that door in!" As they advanced the door was opened.

Ralston dismounted, and bade one of his men do likewise and follow him.

To the second man he said, "Hold the horses!" He strode into the courtyard and stood still.
"It will be touch and go," he said to himself, as he looked about him.
The courtyard was as thronged as the open space without, and four strong walls enclosed it.

The worshippers were strangely silent.

It seemed to Ralston that suspense had struck them dumb.