The conflict was of short duration; for Shotbolt was no match for his athletic antagonist.

He was speedily disarmed; and the rope and gag being found upon him, were exultingly turned against him by his conqueror, who, after pinioning his arms tightly behind his back, forced open his mouth with the iron, and effectually prevented the utterance of any further outcries.

While the strife was raging, Edgeworth Bess walked up to Rachel, and advised her, if she valued her life, not to scream or stir from the spot; a caution which the housekeeper, whose curiosity far outweighed her fears, received in very good part.
In the interim, Jack advanced to the woollen-draper, and regarding him sternly, thus addressed him: "You have violated the laws of hospitality, Mr.Kneebone, I came hither as your guest.

You have betrayed me." "What faith is to be kept with a felon ?" replied the woollen-draper, disdainfully.
"He who breaks faith with his benefactor may well justify himself thus," answered Jack.

"I have not trusted you.