He instantly suspended his task, and being convinced that he was not deceived, crept out of the hole, and made a sign to the others to listen.

Each had heard the awful sound before; but as it was partially drowned by the noise of the pick-axe, it had not produced much impression upon them, as they attributed it to some vibration in the wall, caused by the echo of the blows.

But it was now distinctly audible--deep, clear, slow,--like a passing bell,--but so solemn, so unearthly, that its tones froze the blood in their veins.
[Illustration: _Guy Fawkes and the other Conspirators alarmed while digging the mine_] They listened for a while in speechless astonishment, scarcely daring to look at each other, and expecting each moment that the building would fall upon them, and bury them alive.

The light of a single lantern placed upon an upturned basket fell upon figures rigid as statues, and countenances charged with awe.
"My arm is paralysed," said Guy Fawkes, breaking silence; "I can work no more." "Try holy water, father," cried Catesby.

"If it proceeds from aught of evil, that will quell it." The chalice containing the sacred lymph was brought, and pronouncing a solemn exorcism, Garnet sprinkled the wall.
The sound immediately ceased.
"It is as I thought, father," observed Catesby; "it is the delusion of an evil spirit." As he spoke, the tolling of the mysterious bell was again heard, and more solemnly,--more slowly than before.
"Sprinkle the wall again, in Heaven's name, father," cried Fawkes, crossing himself devoutly.