But if you have a written warrant from Sir Cuthbert, the rightful Lord of Evesham, I will lay the matter before the Lady Margaret, and will act as it may seem fit to her." "We have no time for parleying," a rough voice said.

"Throw open the gate at once, or we will break it down." "Ye be no outlaws," the lady superior said, "for the outlaws are men who fear God and respect the church.

Were ye what ye say, ye would be provided with the warrants that I mention.

I warn you, therefore, that if you use force, you will be excommunicated, and placed under the ban of the church." The only answer was a thundering assault upon the gate, which soon yielded to the blows.

The sisters and novices ran shrieking through the corridors at this rude uproar.