CHAPTER VI.
THE CELLAR.
It was long before the conspirators gained sufficient courage to recommence digging the mine.

Whenever holy water was thrown upon the stones, the mysterious bell ceased tolling, but it presently began anew, and such was the appalling effect of the sound that it completely paralysed the listeners.

Prayers were said by Garnet; hymns sung by the others; but all was of no avail.

It continued to toll on with increased solemnity, unless checked by the same potent application as before.
The effect became speedily manifest in the altered looks and demeanour of the conspirators, and it was evident that if something was not done to arouse them, the enterprise would be abandoned.

Catesby, equally superstitious with his confederates, but having nerves more firmly strung, was the first to conquer his terror.