Oh, Stephen, if Martha would but come!' She rested her head against the casement, sobbing, as though her grief could not be assuaged.

Stephen felt heart-sick with his intense longing for the arrival of help from Longville, as he watched the progress of the fire; but at last, after what appeared ages of waiting, they heard a shout in the distance, and saw a little band of horsemen galloping up to the burning house.
'They are come from Longville, uncle,' cried Miss Anne.

'You must open now; there is not a moment to spare.

The fire is gaining upon us fast.' He had seen their approach himself, and now he opened the doors, and gave the keys to Miss Anne.

He had collected all his papers and notes in one large bundle, which he had clasped in his arms; and as soon as the crowd swept in through the open doors, he cried aloud to the constable from Longville to come and guard him.