"To-morrow, or to-night, I know not," exclaimed the other, "but one timeor other, Dick, they do intend upon your life. I had the proof ofit; I have heard them whisper; nay, they as good as told me."

"Ay," returned Dick, "is it so? I had thought as much."

And he told him the day's occurrences at length.

When it was done, Matcham arose and began, in turn, to examine theapartment.

"No," he exclaimed, "there is no entrance visible. Yet 'tis a purecertainty there is one. Dick, I will stay by you. An y' are todie, I will die with you. And I can help--look! I sometimes have stolen adagger--I will do my best! And meanwhile, an ye know of any issue,any sally-port we could get opened, or any window that we mightdescend by, I will most joyfully face any jeopardy to flee withyou."

"Jack," exclaimed Dick, "by the mass, Jack, y' are the best soul, andthe truthfulst, and the bravest in all England! Give me your hand,Jack."

And he grasped the other's arm in silence.

"I will tell you," he resumed. "There is a window, out of whichthe messenger descended; the rope should still be in the chamber.'Tis a hope."

"Hist!" exclaimed Matcham.

Both gave ear. There was a sound somewhat below the floor; then it paused,and then began again.