They fought desperately but vainly, and one by one fell under the blows of their assailants.
Rupert stood immovable on guard.

He knew the desperate nature of his enemy, and feared that if he himself were drawn for a moment from his post into the conflict, he would rush past and endeavour to avenge himself upon them all by killing Maria.
At last, when most of his followers had fallen, Sir Richard Fulke made a sudden dash through his assailants, and fled up the stairs towards the door on the roof.

Rupert, who had never for a moment taken his eye off him, followed at full speed, shouting to Hugh to bring torches and follow.
Short as was the start that was gained, it nearly sufficed for the desperate man's escape; as Rupert gained the terrace, he was already nearly at the top of the ladder against the roof.

Rupert seized the ladder, and jerked it sideways.

Sir Richard made a grasp at the crest of the roof, and then rolled down on to the terrace.
Rupert rushed forward, but the torches had not yet come, and his enemy was on his feet and upon him, with the advantage which the light coming up the stairs afforded him, and striking down his guard, rushed in and grappled with him.