CHAPTER IX.
THE PRISON ON SALFORD BRIDGE.
On the following morning, Guy Fawkes had a long and private conference with Father Oldcorne.

The priest appeared greatly troubled by the communication made to him, but he said nothing, and was for some time lost in reflection, and evidently weighing within himself what course it would be best to pursue.

His uneasiness was not without effect on Viviana Radcliffe, and she ventured at last to inquire whether he apprehended any new danger.
"I scarcely know what I apprehend, dear daughter," he answered.

"But circumstances have occurred which render it impossible we can remain longer in our present asylum with safety.

We must quit it at nightfall." "Is our retreat then discovered ?" inquired Viviana, in alarm.
"Not as yet, I trust," replied Oldcorne; "but I have just ascertained from a messenger that the pursuivant, who, we thought, had departed for Chester, is still lingering within the town.