There was no time for deliberation.

He felt where the lock was, and dealt it a tremendous blow with his mattock.

It needed but a second to dash the door open.

Someone laid a hand on his arm.
'Who is it ?' said Curdie.
'I told you they wouldn't believe me, sir,' said the housemaid.

'I have been here all day.' He took her hand, and said, 'You are a good, brave girl.