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This historic book may have numerous typos, missing text or index. Purchasers can download a free scanned copy of the original book (without typos) from the publisher. 1878. Not illustrated. Excerpt: ... CHAT MOSS. The pursuivant was taken so completely unawares by the sudden appearance of Guy Fawkes and his companions, that he made no attempt at resistance. Nor were his attendants less confounded. Before they recovered from their surprise, Humphrey Chetham seized Viviana in his arms, and darting through the panel, called to the priest to follow him. Father Oldcorne was about to comply, when one of the soldiers, grasping the surcingle at his waist, dragged him forcibly backwards. The next moment, however, he was set free by Guy Fawkes, who, felling the man to the ground, and interposing himself between the priest and the other soldier, enabled the former to make good his retreat. This done, he planted himself in front of the panel, and with a petronel in each hand, menaced his opponents. "Fly for your lives!" he shouted in a loud voice to the others. "Not a moment is to- be lost. I have taken greater odds, and in a worse cause, and. have not been worsted. Heed me not, I say. I will defend the passage till you are beyond reach of danger. Fly !--fly!" "After them!" vociferated the pursuivant, stamping with rage and vexation; "after them instantly! Hew down that bold traitor. Show him no quarter. His life is forfeit to the king. Slay him as you would a dog!" But the men, having no fire-arms, were so much intimidated by the fierce looks of Guy Fawkes, and the deadly weapons he pointed at their heads, that they hesitated to obey their leader's injunctions. "Do you hear what I say to you, cravens?" roared the pursuivant. "Cut him down without mercy." "They dare not move a footstep," rejoined Guy Fawkes, in a decisive tone. "Recreants!" cried the pursuivant, foaming with rage, "is my prey -to be snatched from me at the very moment I have secured it, through your coward...
