CHAPTER V.
CHAT MOSS.
The pursuivant was taken so completely unawares by the sudden appearance of Guy Fawkes and his companions, that he made no attempt at resistance.
Nor were his attendants less confounded.

Before they recovered from their surprise, Humphrey Chetham seized Viviana in his arms, and darting through the panel, called to the priest to follow him.

Father Oldcorne was about to comply, when one of the soldiers, grasping the surcingle at his waist, dragged him forcibly backwards.

The next moment, however, he was set free by Guy Fawkes, who, felling the man to the ground, and interposing himself between the priest and the other soldier, enabled the former to make good his retreat.

This done, he planted himself in front of the panel, and with a petronel in each hand, menaced his opponents.
"Fly for your lives!" he shouted in a loud voice to the others.