So I could but gnaw at my gag, trying to find scope for my tongue to cry, for now it was not only the travellers that I would save, but my own life, and my escape from a death of torment lay on my success.

But my mouth was as dry as a kiln, my tongue was doubled back till I thought that I should have choked.

The night was now deadly still, and the ring of the weary hoofs drew nearer and nearer.

I heard a stumble, and the scramble of a tired horse as he recovered himself; for the rest, all was silent, though the beating of my own heart sounded heavy and husky in my ears.
Closer and closer the travellers drew, and soon it was plain that they rode not carelessly, nor as men who deemed themselves secure, for the tramp of one horse singled itself out in front of the others, and this, doubtless, was ridden by an "eclaireur," sent forward to see that the way ahead was safe.

Now I heard a low growl of a curse from Brother Thomas, and my heart took some comfort.