From this state of suspense she was relieved in a few minutes by Humphrey Chetham, who informed her that Oldcorne had descended in safety, and was in the boat with Guy Fawkes.
"I will fulfil my promise," replied Viviana, trembling; "but I fear my strength will fail me." "You had better find death below than tarry here," replied Humphrey Chetham, who as he spoke was rapidly filing through the iron bar.

"In a few minutes this impediment will be removed." The young merchant worked hard, and in a short time the stout bar yielded to his efforts.
"Now, then," he cried, springing into the room, "you are free." "I dare not make the attempt," said Viviana; "my strength utterly fails me." "Nay, then," he replied; "I will take the risk upon myself.

You must not remain here." So saying, he caught her in his arms, and bore her through the window.
With some difficulty, and no little risk, he succeeded in gaining a footing on the ladder.

This accomplished, he began slowly to descend.
When half way down, he found he had overrated his strength, and he feared he should be compelled to quit his hold; but, nerved by his passion, he held on, and making a desperate effort, completed the descent in safety..