We shall hear what Sir Ralph will say to the matter, and Master Roger Nowell, and--" "You forget me, good Master Potts," interrupted Nicholas, laughingly; "I entirely disapprove of it.

It is a most flagrant breach of duty.
Nevertheless, I am glad the poor wench has got off." "She is safe within the church," said Potts, "and I command Master Richard, in the king's name, to let us pass.

Beadle! Sharpshot, Sparshot, or whatever be your confounded name do your duty, sirrah.
Enter the church, and bring forth the witch." "Ey darna, mester," replied Simon; "young mester Ruchot ud slit mey weasand os soon os look ot meh." Richard put an end to further altercation, by stepping back quickly, locking the door, and then taking out the key, and putting it into his pocket.
"She is quite safe now," he cried, with a smile at the discomfited lawyer.
"Is there no other door ?" inquired Potts of the beadle, in a low tone.
"Yeigh, theere be one ot t'other soide," replied Sparshot, "boh it be locked, ey reckon, an maybe hoo'n getten out that way." "Quick, quick, and let's see," cried Potts; "justice must not be thwarted in this shameful manner." While the greater part of the crowd set off after Potts and the beadle, Richard Assheton, anxious to know what had become of the fugitive, and determined not to abandon her while any danger existed, unlocked the church-door, and entered the holy structure, followed by Nicholas.

On looking around, Nance was nowhere to be seen, neither did she answer to his repeated calls, and Richard concluded she must have escaped, when all at once a loud exulting shout was heard without, leaving no doubt that the poor young woman had again fallen into the hands of her captors.

The next moment a sharp, piercing scream in a female key confirmed the supposition.