"Our pursuers have discovered the track, and are making towards us." "Let them do so," replied the young merchant.

"They can do us no farther injury." "That is false!" cried the voice of a soldier from behind.

And, as the words were uttered, a shot was fired, which, though aimed against Chetham, took effect upon his steed.

The animal staggered, and his rider had only time to slide from his back when he reeled off the path, and was ingulfed in the marsh.
Hearing the plunge of the steed, the man fancied he had hit his mark, and hallooed in an exulting voice to his companions.

But his triumph was of short duration.