Thus beset on all sides, it seemed scarcely possible to escape.

Nothing daunted, however, by the threats and vociferations with which they were received, the two horsemen boldly charged this party.

The encounter was instantaneous.

Guy Fawkes warded off a blow, which, if it had taken effect, must have robbed Viviana of life, and struck down the fellow who aimed it.

At the same moment, his career was checked by another assailant, who, catching his bridle with the hook of his pike, commanded him to surrender.