You are struggling hopelessly and unrighteously, and Heaven will never assist an undertaking which has its aim in the terrible waste of life you meditate." Father Oldcorne made no reply, but walked apart with Guy Fawkes; and Viviana abandoned herself to sorrowful reflection.
Shortly after this, the door was suddenly thrown open, and Humphrey Chetham rushed into the room.

His looks were full of apprehension, and Viviana was at no loss to perceive that some calamity was at hand.
"What is the matter ?" she cried, rising.
"The pursuivant and his men are below," he replied.

"They are interrogating the hostess, and are about to search the house.

I managed to pass them unperceived." "We will resist them to the last," said Guy Fawkes, drawing a petronel.
"Resistance will be in vain," rejoined Humphrey Chetham.

"They more than treble our number." "Is there no means of escape ?" asked Viviana.
"None whatever," replied Chetham.