At last a fluttering at our hearts, more convincing even than the clock, told us the hour was come.

We rose from our seats.

The rebellion at Stonebridge House had begun.
The Henniker marched with stately tread from the room, and up the stairs to her own apartment.

It seemed a long journey to us, who sat listening in breathless silence, and at last the closing of her door seemed to resound all over the house.
"Now then," said Smith to Shankley and Philpot, who, with their shoes off and their tools in their hands, stood ready, like two trained assassins, for the word of command.

"Now then, and keep quiet, whatever you do!" They went.