OLD SAINT PAUL'S

 _A TALE OF THE PLAGUE AND THE FIRE_

 BY WILLIAM HARRISON AINSWORTH

The portion of the ensuing Tale relating to the Grocer of Wood-street, and his manner of victualling his house, and shutting up himself and hisfamily within it during the worst part of the Plague of 1665, is foundedon a narrative, which I have followed pretty closely in most of itsdetails, contained in a very rare little volume, entitled, "_Preparations against the Plague, both of Soul and Body_, " theauthorship of which I have no hesitation in assigning to DEFOE. Indeed, I venture to pronounce it his masterpiece. It is strange that thismatchless performance should have hitherto escaped attention, and thatit should not have been reprinted with some one of the countlessimpressions of the "_History of the Plague of London_, " to which itforms an almost necessary accompaniment. The omission, I trust, will berepaired by Mr. HAZLITT the younger, DEFOE'S last and best editor, inhis valuable edition of the works of that great novelist and politicalwriter, now in the course of publication. It may be added, that a caseprecisely similar to that of the Grocer, and attended with the samehappy results, occurred during the Plague of Marseilles, in 1720. 

For my acquaintance with this narrative, as well as for the suggestionof its application to the present purpose, I am indebted to my friend, Mr. JAMES CROSSLEY, of Manchester. 

KENSAL MANOR HOUSE, HARROW ROAD, _November_ 30, 1841. 

CONTENTS. 

BOOK THE FIRST--April, 1665. 

1. The Grocer of Wood-street and his Family. 

2. The Coffin-maker. 

3. The Gamester and the Bully. 

4. The Interview. 

5. The Pomander-box. 

6. The Libertine Punished. 

7. The Plague Nurse. 

8. The Mosaical Rods. 

9. The Miniature. 

10. The Duel. 

BOOK THE SECOND. --May, 1665. 

1. The Progress of the Pestilence. 

2. In what Manner the Grocer Victualled his House. 

3. The Quack Doctors. 

4. The Two Watchmen. 

5. The Blind Piper and his Daughter. 

6. Old London from Old Saint Paul's. 

7. Paul's Walk. 

8. The Amulet. 

9. How Leonard was cured of the Plague. 

10. The Pest-house in Finsbury Fields. 

11. How the Grocer shut up his House. 

BOOK THE THIRD. --June, 1665. 

1. The Imprisoned Family. 

2. How Fires were Lighted in the Streets. 

3. The Dance of Death. 

4. The Plague-pit. 

5. How Saint Paul's was used as a Pest-house. 

6. The Departure. 

7. The Journey. 

8. Ashdown Lodge. 

9. Kingston Lisle. 

BOOK THE FOURTH. --September, 1665. 

1. The Plague at its Height. 

2. The Second Plague-pit. 

3. The House in Nicholas-lane. 

4. The Trials of Amabel. 

5. The Marriage and its Consequences. 

6. The Certificate. 

BOOK THE FIFTH. --December, 1665. 

1. The Decline of the Plague. 

2. The Midnight Meeting. 

BOOK THE SIXTH. --September, 1666. 

1. The Fire-ball. 

2. The First Night of the Fire. 

3. Progress of the Fire. 

4. Leonard's Interview with the King. 

5. How Leonard saved the King's Life. 

6. How the Grocer's House was Burnt. 

7. The Burning of Saint Paul's. 

8. How Leonard rescued the Lady Isabella. 

9. What befel Chowles and Judith in the Vaults of Saint Faith's. 

10. Conclusion. 

OLD SAINT PAUL'S. 

BOOK THE FIRST. 

APRIL, 1665. 

I. 

THE GROCER OF WOOD-STREET AND HIS FAMILY. 

One night, at the latter end of April, 1665, the family of a citizen ofLondon carrying on an extensive business as a grocer in Wood-street, Cheapside, were assembled, according to custom, at prayer. The grocer'sname was Stephen Bloundel. His family consisted of his wife, three sons, and two daughters. He had, moreover, an apprentice; an elderly femaleserving as cook; her son, a young man about five-and-twenty, filling theplace of porter to the shop and general assistant; and a kitchen-maid. The whole household attended; for the worthy grocer, being a strictobserver of his religious duties, as well as a rigid disciplinarian inother respects, suffered no one to be absent, on any plea whatever, except indisposition, from morning and evening devotions; and these werealways performed at stated times. In fact, the establishment wasconducted with the regularity of clockwork, it being the aim of itsmaster not to pass a single hour of the day unprofitably. 

The ordinary prayers gone through, Stephen Bloundel offered up along andfervent supplication to the Most High for protection against thedevouring pestilence with which the city was then scourged. Heacknowledged that this terrible visitation had been justly brought uponit by the wickedness of its inhabitants; that they deserved their doom, dreadful though it was; that, like the dwellers in Jerusalem before itwas given up to ruin and desolation, they "had mocked the messengers ofGod and despised His word;" that in the language of the prophet, "theyhad refused to hearken, and pulled away the shoulder, and stopped theirears that they should not hear; yea, had made their heart like anadamant stone, lest they should hear the law and the words which theLord of Hosts had sent in his spirit by the former prophets. " Headmitted that great sins require great chastisement, and that the sinsof London were enormous; that it was filled with strifes, seditions, heresies, murders, drunkenness, revellings, and every kind ofabomination; that the ordinances of God were neglected, and all mannerof vice openly practised; that, despite repeated warnings andafflictions less grievous than the present, these vicious practices hadbeen persisted in. All this he humbly acknowledged. But he implored agracious Providence, in consideration of his few faithful servants, tospare the others yet a little longer, and give them a last chance ofrepentance and amendment; or, if this could not be, and their utterextirpation was inevitable, that the habitations of the devout might beexempted from the general destruction--might be places of refuge, asZoar was to Lot. He concluded by earnestly exhorting those around him tokeep constant watch upon themselves; not to murmur at God's dealings anddispensations; but so to comport themselves, that "they might be able tostand in the day of wrath, in the day of death, and in the day ofjudgment. " The exhortation produced a powerful effect upon its hearers, and they arose, some with serious, others with terrified looks. 

Before proceeding further, it may be desirable to show in what mannerthe dreadful pestilence referred to by the grocer commenced, and how farits ravages had already extended. Two years before, namely, in 1663, more than a third of the population of Amsterdam was carried off by adesolating plague. Hamburgh was also grievously afflicted about the sametime, and in the same manner. Notwithstanding every effort to cut offcommunication with these states, the insidious disease found its wayinto England by means of some bales of merchandise, as it was suspected, at the latter end of the year 1664, when two persons died suddenly, withundoubted symptoms of the distemper, in Westminster. Its next appearancewas at a house in Long Acre, and its victims two Frenchmen, who hadbrought goods from the Levant. Smothered for a short time, like a fireupon which coals had been heaped, it broke out with fresh fury inseveral places. 

The consternation now began. The whole city was panic-stricken: nothingwas talked of but the plague--nothing planned but means of arresting itsprogress--one grim and ghastly idea possessed the minds of all. Like ahideous phantom stalking the streets at noon-day, and scaring all in itspath, Death took his course through London, and selected his prey atpleasure. The alarm was further increased by the predictions confidentlymade as to the vast numbers who would be swept away by the visitation;by the prognostications of astrologers; by the prophesyings ofenthusiasts; by the denunciations of preachers, and by the portents andprodigies reported to have occurred. During the long and frosty winterpreceding this fatal year, a comet appeared in the heavens, the sicklycolour of which was supposed to forebode the judgment about to follow. Blazing stars and other meteors, of a lurid hue and strange andpreternatural shape, were likewise seen. The sun was said to have set instreams of blood, and the moon to have shown without reflecting ashadow; grisly shapes appeared at night--strange clamours and groanswere heard in the air--hearses, coffins, and heaps of unburied dead werediscovered in the sky, and great cakes and clots of blood were found inthe Tower moat; while a marvellous double tide occurred at LondonBridge. All these prodigies were currently reported, and in most casesbelieved. 

The severe frost, before noticed, did not break up till the end ofFebruary, and with the thaw the plague frightfully increased inviolence. From Drury-lane it spread along Holborn, eastward as far asGreat Turnstile, and westward to Saint Giles's Pound, and so along theTyburn-road. Saint Andrew's, Holborn, was next infected; and as this wasa much more populous parish than the former, the deaths were morenumerous within it. For a while, the disease was checked by Fleet Ditch;it then leaped this narrow boundary, and ascending the opposite hill, carried fearful devastation into Saint James's, Clerkenwell. At the sametime, it attacked Saint Bride's; thinned the ranks of the thievish hordehaunting Whitefriars, and proceeding in a westerly course, decimatedSaint Clement Danes. 

Hitherto, the city had escaped. The destroyer had not passed Ludgate orNewgate, but environed the walls like a besieging enemy. A few days, however, before the opening of this history, fine weather havingcommenced, the horrible disease began to grow more rife, and laughingall precautions and impediments to scorn, broke out in the very heart ofthe stronghold--namely, in Bearbinder-lane, near Stock's Market, wherenine persons died. 

At a season so awful, it may be imagined how an impressive address, likethat delivered by the grocer, would be received by those who saw in thepestilence, not merely an overwhelming scourge from which few couldescape, but a direct manifestation of the Divine displeasure. Not a wordwas said. Blaize Shotterel, the porter, and old Josyna, his mother, together with Patience, the other woman-servant, betook themselvessilently, and with troubled countenances, to the kitchen. Leonard Holt, the apprentice, lingered for a moment to catch a glance from the softblue eyes of Amabel, the grocer's eldest daughter (for even the plaguewas a secondary consideration with him when she was present), andfailing in the attempt, he heaved a deep sigh, which was luckily laid tothe account of the discourse he had just listened to by hissharp-sighted master, and proceeded to the shop, where he busied himselfin arranging matters for the night. 

Having just completed his twenty-first year, and his apprenticeshipbeing within a few months of its expiration, Leonard Holt began to thinkof returning to his native town of Manchester, where he intended tosettle, and where he had once fondly hoped the fair Amabel wouldaccompany him, in the character of his bride. Not that he had everventured to declare his passion, nor that he had received sufficientencouragement to make it matter of certainty that if he did so declarehimself, he should be accepted; but being both "proper and tall, " andhaving tolerable confidence in his good looks, he had made himself, upto a short time prior to his introduction to the reader, quite easy onthe point. 

His present misgivings were occasioned by Amabel's altered mannertowards him, and by a rival who, he had reason to fear, had completelysuperseded him in her good graces. Brought up together from an earlyage, the grocer's daughter and the young apprentice had at firstregarded each other as brother and sister. By degrees, the feelingchanged; Amabel became more reserved, and held little intercourse withLeonard, who, busied with his own concerns, thought little about her. But, as he grew towards manhood, he could not remain insensible to herextraordinary beauty--for extraordinary it was, and such as to attractadmiration wherever she went, so that the "Grocer's Daughter" became thetoast among the ruffling gallants of the town, many of whom sought toobtain speech with her. Her parents, however, were far too careful topermit any such approach. Amabel's stature was lofty; her limbs slight, but exquisitely symmetrical; her features small, and cast in the mostdelicate mould; her eyes of the softest blue; and her hair luxuriant, and of the finest texture and richest brown. Her other beauties must beleft to the imagination; but it ought not to be omitted that she wasbarely eighteen, and had all the freshness, the innocence, and vivacityof that most charming period of woman's existence. No wonder sheravished every heart. No wonder, in an age when love-making was moregeneral even than now, that she was beset by admirers. No wonder herfather's apprentice became desperately enamoured of her, andproportionately jealous. 

And this brings us to his rival. On the 10th of April, two gallants, both richly attired, and both young and handsome, dismounted before thegrocer's door, and, leaving their steeds to the care of theirattendants, entered the shop. They made sundry purchases of conserves, figs, and other dried fruit, chatted familiarly with the grocer, andtarried so long, that at last he began to suspect they must have somemotive. All at once, however, they disagreed on some slightmatter--Bloundel could not tell what, nor, perhaps, could thedisputants, even if their quarrel was not preconcerted--high wordsarose, and in another moment, swords were drawn, and furious passesexchanged. The grocer called to his eldest son, a stout youth ofnineteen, and to Leonard Holt, to separate them. The apprentice seizedhis cudgel--no apprentice in those days was without one--and rushedtowards the combatants, but before he could interfere, the fray wasended. One of them had received a thrust through the sword arm, and hisblade dropping, his antagonist declared himself satisfied, and with agrave salute walked off. The wounded man wrapped a lace handkerchiefround his arm, but immediately afterwards complained of great faintness. Pitying his condition, and suspecting no harm, the grocer led him intoan inner room, where restoratives were offered by Mrs. Bloundel and herdaughter Amabel, both of whom had been alarmed by the noise of theconflict. In a short time, the wounded man was so far recovered as to beable to converse with his assistants, especially the younger one; andthe grocer having returned to the shop, his discourse became so veryanimated and tender, that Mrs. Bloundel deemed it prudent to give herdaughter a hint to retire. Amabel reluctantly obeyed, for the youngstranger was so handsome, so richly dressed, had such a captivatingmanner, and so distinguished an air, that she was strongly prepossessedin his favour. A second look from her mother, however, caused her todisappear, nor did she return. After waiting with suppressed anxiety forsome time, the young gallant departed, overwhelming the good dame withhis thanks, and entreating permission to call again. This wasperemptorily refused, but, notwithstanding the interdiction, he came onthe following day. The grocer chanced to be out at the time, and thegallant, who had probably watched him go forth, deriding theremonstrances of the younger Bloundel and Leonard, marched straight tothe inner room, where he found the dame and her daughter. They were muchdisconcerted at his appearance, and the latter instantly rose with theintention of retiring, but the gallant caught her arm and detained her. 

"Do not fly me, Amabel, " he cried, in an impassioned tone, "but sufferme to declare the love I have for you. I cannot live without you. "

Amabel, whose neck and cheeks were crimsoned with blushes, cast down hereyes before the ardent regards of the gallant, and endeavoured towithdraw her hand. 

"One word only, " he continued, "and I release you. Am I whollyindifferent to you! Answer me--yes or no!"

"Do _not_ answer him, Amabel, " interposed her mother. "He is deceivingyou. He loves you not. He would ruin you. This is the way with all thesecourt butterflies. Tell him you hate him, child, and bid him begone. "

"But I cannot tell him an untruth, mother, " returned Amabel, artlessly, "for I do _not_ hate him. "

"Then you love me, " cried the young man, falling on his knees, andpressing her hand to his lips. "Tell me so, and make me the happiest ofmen. "

But Amabel had now recovered from the confusion into which she had beenthrown, and, alarmed at her own indiscretion, forcibly withdrew herhand, exclaiming in a cold tone, and with much natural dignity, "Arise, sir. I will not tolerate these freedoms. My mother is right--you havesome ill design. "

"By my soul, no!" cried the gallant, passionately. "I love you, andwould make you mine. "

"No doubt, " remarked Mrs. Bloundel, contemptuously, "but not bymarriage. "

"Yes, by marriage, " rejoined the gallant, rising. "If she will consent, I will wed her forthwith. "

Both Amabel and her mother looked surprised at the young man'sdeclaration, which was uttered with a fervour that seemed to leave nodoubt of its sincerity; but the latter, fearing some artifice, replied, "If what you say is true, and you really love my daughter as much as youpretend, this is not the way to win her; for though she can have nopretension to wed with one of your seeming degree, nor is it for herhappiness that she should, yet, were she sought by the proudest noble inthe land, she shall never, if I can help it, be lightly won. If yourintentions are honourable, you must address yourself, in the firstplace, to her father, and if he agrees (which I much doubt) that youshall become her suitor, I can make no objection. Till this is settled, I must pray you to desist from further importunity. "

"And so must I, " added Amabel. "I cannot give you a hope till you havespoken to my father. "

"Be it so, " replied the gallant. "I will tarry here till his return. "

So saying, he was about to seat himself, but Mrs. Bloundel preventedhim. 

"I cannot permit this, sir, " she cried. "Your tarrying here may, foraught I know, bring scandal upon my house;--I am sure it will bedisagreeable to my husband. I am unacquainted with your name andcondition. You may be a man of rank. You may be one of the profligateand profane crew who haunt the court. You may be the worst of them all, my Lord Rochester himself. He is about your age, I have heard, andthough a mere boy in years, is a veteran in libertinism. But, whoeveryou are, and whatever your rank and station may be, unless yourcharacter will bear the strictest scrutiny, I am certain StephenBloundel will never consent to your union with his daughter. "

"Nay, mother, " observed Amabel, "you judge the gentleman unjustly. I amsure he is neither a profligate gallant himself, nor a companion ofsuch--especially of the wicked Earl of Rochester. "

"I pretend to be no better than I am, " replied the young man, repressinga smile that rose to his lips at Mrs. Bloundel's address; "but I shallreform when I am married. It would be impossible to be inconstant to sofair a creature as Amabel. For my rank, I have none. My condition isthat of a private gentleman, --my name, Maurice Wyvil. "

"What you say of yourself, Mr. Maurice Wyvil, convinces me you will meetwith a decided refusal from my husband, " returned Mrs. Bloundel. 

"I trust not, " replied Wyvil, glancing tenderly at Amabel. "If I shouldbe so fortunate as to gain _his_ consent, have I _yours_?"

"It is too soon to ask that question, " she rejoined, blushing deeply. "And now, sir, you must go, indeed, you must. You distress my mother. "

"If I do not distress _you_, I will stay, " resumed Wyvil, with animploring look. 

"You _do_ distress me, " she answered, averting her gaze. 

"Nay, then, I must tear myself away, " he rejoined. "I shall returnshortly, and trust to find your father less flinty-hearted than he isrepresented. "

He would have clasped Amabel in his arms, and perhaps snatched a kiss, if her mother had not rushed between them. 

"No more familiarities, sir, " she cried angrily; "no court manners here. If you look to wed my daughter, you must conduct yourself moredecorously; but I can tell you, you have no chance--none whatever. "

"Time will show, " replied Wyvil, audaciously. "You had better give herto me quietly, and save me the trouble of carrying her off, --for haveher I will. "

"Mercy on us!" cried Mrs. Bloundel, in accents of alarm; "now his wickedintentions are out. "

"Fear nothing, mother, " observed Amabel, coldly. "He will scarcely carryme off without my own consent; and I am not likely to sacrifice myselffor one who holds me in such light esteem. "

"Forgive me, Amabel, " rejoined Wyvil, in a voice so penitent that itinstantly effaced her displeasure; "I meant not to offend. I spoke onlythe language of distraction. Do not dismiss me thus, or my death willlie at your door. "

"I should be sorry for that, " she replied; "but, inexperienced as I am, I feel this is not the language of real regard, but of furious passion. "

A dark shade passed over Wyvil's handsome features, and the almostfeminine beauty by which they were characterized gave place to a fierceand forbidding expression. Controlling himself by a powerful effort, hereplied, with forced calmness, "Amabel, you know not what it is to love. I will not stir hence till I have seen your father. "

"We will see that, sir, " exclaimed Mrs. Bloundel, angrily. "What, ho!son Stephen! Leonard Holt! I say. This gentleman _will_ stay here, whether I like or not. Show him forth. "

"That I will, right willingly, " replied the apprentice, rushing beforethe younger Bloundel, and flourishing his formidable cudgel. "Out withyou, sir! Out with you!"

"Not at your bidding you, saucy knave, " rejoined Wyvil, laying his handupon his sword: "and if it were not for the presence of your mistressand her lovely daughter, I would crop your ears for your insolence. "

"Their presence shall not prevent me from making my cudgel and yourshoulders acquainted, if you do not budge, " replied the apprentice, sturdily. 

Enraged by the retort, Wyvil would have drawn his sword, but a blow onthe arm disabled him. 

"Plague on you, fellow!" he exclaimed; "you shall rue this to the lastday of your existence. "

"Threaten those who heed you, " replied Leonard, about to repeat theblow. 

"Do him no further injury!" cried Amabel, arresting his hand, andlooking with the greatest commiseration at Wyvil. "You have dealt withhim far too rudely already. "

"Since I have your sympathy, sweet Amabel, " rejoined Wyvil, "I care notwhat rude treatment I experience from this churl. We shall soon meetagain. " And bowing to her, he strode out of the room. 

Leonard followed him to the shop-door, hoping some further pretext forquarrel would arise, but he was disappointed. Wyvil took no notice ofhim, and proceeded at a slow pace towards Cheapside. 

Half an hour afterwards, Stephen Bloundel came home. On being informedof what had occurred, he was greatly annoyed, though he concealed hisvexation, and highly applauded his daughter's conduct. Without furthercomment, he proceeded about his business, and remained in the shop tillit was closed. Wyvil did not return, and the grocer tried to persuadehimself they should see nothing more of him. Before Amabel retired torest, he imprinted a kiss on her snowy brow, and said, in a tone of theutmost kindness, "You have never yet deceived me, child, and I hopenever will. Tell me truly, do you take any interest in this younggallant?"

Amabel blushed deeply. 

"I should not speak the truth, father, " she rejoined, after a pause, "ifI were to say I do not. "

"I am sorry for it, " replied Bloundel, gravely. "But you would not behappy with him. I am sure he is unprincipled and profligate:--you mustforget him. "

"I will try to do so, " sighed Amabel. And the conversation dropped. 

On the following day, Maurice Wyvil entered the grocer's shop. He wasmore richly attired than before, and there was a haughtiness in hismanner which he had not hitherto assumed. What passed between him andBloundel was not known, for the latter never spoke of it; but the resultmay be gathered from the fact that the young gallant was not allowed aninterview with the grocer's daughter. 

From this moment the change previously noticed took place in Amabel'sdemeanour towards Leonard. She seemed scarcely able to endure hispresence, and sedulously avoided his regards. From being habitually gayand cheerful, she became pensive and reserved. Her mother more than oncecaught her in tears; and it was evident, from many other signs, thatWyvil completely engrossed her thoughts. Fully aware of this, Mrs. Bloundel said nothing of it to her husband, because the subject waspainful to him; and not supposing the passion deeply rooted, she hopedit would speedily wear away. But she was mistaken--the flame was keptalive in Amabel's breast in a manner of which she was totally ignorant. Wyvil found means to deceive the vigilance of the grocer and his wife, but he could not deceive the vigilance of a jealous lover. Leonarddiscovered that his mistress had received a letter. He would not betrayher, but he determined to watch her narrowly. 

Accordingly, when she went forth one morning in company with her youngersister (a little girl of some five years old), he made an excuse tofollow them, and, keeping within sight, perceived them enter SaintPaul's Cathedral, the mid aisle of which was then converted into apublic walk, and generally thronged with town gallants, bullies, bona-robas, cut-purses, and rogues of every description. In short, itwas the haunt of the worst of characters of the metropolis. When, therefore, Amabel entered this structure, Leonard felt certain it was tomeet her lover. Rushing forward, he saw her take her course through thecrowd, and attract general attention from her loveliness--but he nowherediscerned Maurice Wyvil. 

Suddenly, however, she struck off to the right, and halted near one ofthe pillars, and the apprentice, advancing, detected his rival behindit. He was whispering a few words in her ear, unperceived by her sister. Maddened by the sight, Leonard hurried towards them, but before he couldreach the spot Wyvil was gone, and Amabel, though greatly confused, looked at the same time so indignant, that he almost regretted hisprecipitation. 

"You will, of course, make known to my father what you have just seen?"she said in a low tone. 

"If you will promise not to meet that gallant again without myknowledge, I will not, " replied Leonard. 

After a moment's reflection, Amabel gave the required promise, and theyreturned to Wood-street together. Satisfied she would not break herword, the apprentice became more easy, and as a week elapsed, andnothing was said to him on the subject, he persuaded himself she wouldnot attempt to meet her lover again. 

Things were in this state at the opening of our tale, but upon the nightin question, Leonard fancied he discerned some agitation in Amabel'smanner towards him, and in consequence of this notion, he sought to meether gaze, as before related, after prayers. While trying to distract histhoughts by arranging sundry firkins of butter, and putting other thingsin order, he heard a light footstep behind him, and turning at thesound, beheld Amabel. 

"Leonard, " she whispered, "I promised to tell you when I should nextmeet Maurice Wyvil. He will be here to-night. " And without giving himtime to answer, she retired. 

For awhile, Leonard remained in a state almost of stupefaction, repeating to himself, as if unwilling to believe them, the words he hadjust heard. He had not recovered when the grocer entered the shop, andnoticing his haggard looks, kindly inquired if he felt unwell. Theapprentice returned an evasive answer, and half determined to relate allhe knew to his master, but the next moment he changed his intention, and, influenced by that chivalric feeling which always governs those, ofwhatever condition, who love profoundly, resolved not to betray thethoughtless girl, but to trust to his own ingenuity to thwart thedesigns of his rival, and preserve her Acting upon this resolution, hesaid he had a slight headache, and instantly resumed his occupation. 

At nine o'clock, the whole family assembled at supper. The board wasplentifully though plainly spread, but the grocer observed, with someuneasiness, that his apprentice, who had a good appetite in ordinary, ate little or nothing. He kept his eye constantly upon him, and becameconvinced from his manner that something ailed him. Not having anynotion of the truth, and being filled with apprehensions of the plague, his dread was that Leonard was infected by the disease. Supper wasgenerally the pleasantest meal of the day at the grocer's house, but onthis occasion it passed off cheerlessly enough, and a circumstanceoccurred at its close which threw all into confusion and distress. Before relating this, however, we must complete our description of thefamily under their present aspect. 

Tall, and of a spare frame, with good features, somewhat austere intheir expression, and of the cast which we are apt to term precise andpuritanical, but tempered with great benevolence, Stephen Bloundel had akeen, deep-seated eye, overshadowed by thick brows, and suffered hislong-flowing grey hair to descend over his shoulders. His forehead washigh and ample, his chin square and well defined, and his generalappearance exceedingly striking. In age he was about fifty. Hisintegrity and fairness of dealing, never once called in question for aperiod of thirty years, had won him the esteem of all who knew him;while his prudence and economy had enabled him, during that time, toamass a tolerable fortune. His methodical habits, and strong religiousprinciples, have been already mentioned. His eldest son was named afterhim, and resembled him both in person and character, promising to treadin his footsteps. The younger sons require little notice at present. Onewas twelve, and the other only half that age; but both appeared toinherit many of their father's good qualities. Basil, the elder, was astout, well-grown lad, and had never known a day's ill-health; whileHubert, the younger, was thin, delicate, and constantly ailing. 

Mrs. Bloundel was a specimen of a city dame of the best kind. She had afew pardonable vanities, which no arguments could overcome--such as alittle ostentation in dress--a little pride in the neatness of herhouse--and a good deal in the beauty of her children, especially in thatof Amabel--as well as in the wealth and high character of her husband, whom she regarded as the most perfect of human beings. These slightfailings allowed for, nothing but good remained. Her conduct wasexemplary in all the relations of life. The tenderest of mothers, andthe most affectionate of wives, she had as much genuine piety andstrictness of moral principles as her husband. Short, plump, andwell-proportioned, though somewhat, perhaps, exceeding the rules ofsymmetry--she had a rich olive complexion, fine black eyes, beaming withgood nature, and an ever-laughing mouth, ornamented by a beautiful setof teeth. To wind up all, she was a few years younger than her husband. 

Amabel has already been described. The youngest girl, Christiana, was apretty little dove-eyed, flaxen-haired child, between four and fiveyears old, and shared the fate of most younger children, being very muchcaressed, and not a little spoiled by her parents. 

The foregoing description of the grocer's family would be incompletewithout some mention of his household. Old Josyna Shotterel, the cook, who had lived with her master ever since his marriage, and had thestrongest attachment for him, was a hale, stout dame, of about sixty, with few infirmities for her years, and with less asperity of temperthan generally belongs to servants of her class. She was a native ofHolland, and came to England early in life, where she married Blaize'sfather, who died soon after their union. An excellent cook in a plainway--indeed, she had no practice in any other--she would brew strong aleand mead, or mix a sack-posset with, any innkeeper in the city. Moreover, she was a careful and tender nurse, if her services were everrequired in that capacity. The children looked upon her as a secondmother; and her affection for them, which was unbounded, deserved theirregard. She was a perfect storehouse of what are termed "old women'sreceipts;" and there were few complaints (except the plague) for whichshe did not think herself qualified to prescribe and able to cure. Herskill in the healing art was often tested by her charitable mistress, who required her to prepare remedies, as well as nourishing broths, forsuch of the poor of the parish as applied to her for relief at times ofsickness. 

Her son, Blaize, was a stout, stumpy fellow, about four feet ten, with ahead somewhat too large for his body, and extremely long arms. Eversince the plague had broken out in Drury-lane, it haunted him like aspectre, and scattered the few faculties he possessed. In vain he triedto combat his alarm--in vain his mother endeavoured to laugh him out ofit. Nothing would do. He read the bills of mortality daily; ascertainedthe particulars of every case; dilated upon the agonies of thesufferers; watched the progress of the infection, and calculated thetime it would take to reach Wood-street. He talked of the pestilence byday, and dreamed of it at night; and more than once alarmed the house byroaring for assistance, under the idea that he was suddenly attacked. Byhis mother's advice, he steeped rue, wormwood, and sage in his drink, till it was so abominably nauseous that he could scarcely swallow it, and carried a small ball in the hollow of his hand, compounded of wax, angelica, camphor, and other drugs. He likewise chewed a small piece ofVirginian snake-root, or zedoary, if he approached any place supposed tobe infected. A dried toad was suspended round his neck, as an amulet ofsovereign virtue. Every nostrum sold by the quacks in the streetstempted him; and a few days before, he had expended his last crown inthe purchase of a bottle of plague-water. Being of a superstitiousnature, he placed full faith in all the predictions of the astrologers, who foretold that London should be utterly laid waste, that grass shouldgrow in the streets, and that the living should not be able to bury thedead. He quaked at the terrible denunciations of the preachers, whoexhorted their hearers to repentance, telling them a judgment was athand, and shuddered at the wild and fearful prophesying of the insaneenthusiasts who roamed the streets. His nativity having been cast, andit appearing that he would be in great danger on the 20th of June, hemade up his mind that he should die of the plague on that day. Before hewas assailed by these terrors, he had entertained a sneaking attachmentfor Patience, the kitchen-maid, a young and buxom damsel, who had noespecial objection to him. But of late, his love had given way toapprehension, and his whole thoughts were centred in one idea, namely, self-preservation. 

By this time supper was over, and the family were about to separate forthe night, when Stephen, the grocer's eldest son, having risen to quitthe room, staggered and complained of a strange dizziness and headache, which almost deprived him of sight, while his heart palpitatedfrightfully. A dreadful suspicion seized his father. He ran towards him, and assisted him to a seat. Scarcely had the young man reached it, whena violent sickness seized him; a greenish-coloured froth appeared at themouth, and he began to grow delirious. Guided by the convulsive effortsof the sufferer, Bloundel tore off his clothes, and after a moment'ssearch, perceived under the left arm a livid pustule. He uttered a cryof anguish. His son was plague-stricken. 

II. 

THE COFFIN-MAKER. 

The first shock over, the grocer bore the affliction manfully, and likeone prepared for it. Exhibiting little outward emotion, though his heartwas torn with anguish, and acting with the utmost calmness, he forbadehis wife to approach the sufferer, and desired her instantly to retireto her own room with her daughters; and not to leave it on anyconsideration whatever, without his permission. 

Accustomed to regard her husband's word as law, Mrs. Bloundel, for thefirst time in her life, disputed his authority, and, falling on herknees, besought him, with tears in her eyes, to allow her to nurse herson. But he remained inflexible, and she was forced to comply. 

He next gave similar directions to old Josyna respecting his two youngersons, with this difference only, that when they were put to rest, andthe door was locked upon them, she was to return to the kitchen andprepare a posset-drink of canary and spirits of sulphur, together with apoultice of mallows, lily-roots, figs, linseed, and palm-oil, for thepatient. 

These orders given and obeyed, with Leonard Holt's assistance-forBlaize, who had crept into a corner, in extremity of terror, was whollyincapable of rendering any help-he conveyed his son to the adjoiningroom, on the ground floor, where there was a bed, and placing him withinit, heaped blankets upon him to promote profuse perspiration, while theapprentice lighted a fire. 

Provided with the most efficacious remedies for the distemper, andacquainted with the mode of treating it prescribed by the College ofPhysicians, Bloundel was at no loss how to act, but, rubbing the partaffected with a stimulating ointment, he administered at the same timedoses of mithridate, Venice treacle, and other potent alexipharmics. 

He had soon the satisfaction of perceiving that his son became somewhateasier; and after swallowing the posset-drink prepared by old Josyna, who used all the expedition she could, a moisture broke out upon theyouth's skin, and appeared to relieve him so much, that, but for theghastly paleness of his countenance, and the muddy look of his eye, hisfather would have indulged a hope of his recovery. 

Up to this time, the grocer had acted for himself, and felt confident hehad acted rightly; but he now deemed it expedient to call in advice, and, accordingly, commissioned his apprentice to fetch Doctor Hodges, aphysician, residing in Great Knightrider-street, Doctors' Commons, whohad recently acquired considerable reputation for his skilful treatmentof those attacked by the plague, and who (it may be incidentallymentioned) afterwards gave to the medical world a curious account of theravages of the disorder, as well as of his own professional experiencesduring this terrible period. He likewise told him--and he could notrepress a sigh as he did so--to give notice to the Examiner of Health(there were one or two officers, so designated, appointed to everyparish, at this awful season, by the city authorities) that his housewas infected. 

While preparing to set out, Leonard again debated with himself whetherhe should acquaint his master with Maurice Wyvil's meditated visit. Butconceiving it wholly impossible that Amabel could leave her mother'sroom, even if she were disposed to do so, he determined to let theaffair take its course. On his way to the shop, he entered a small roomoccupied by Blaize, and found him seated near a table, with his handsupon his knees, and his eyes fixed upon the ground, looking the veryimage of despair. The atmosphere smelt like that of an apothecary'sshop, and was so overpowering, that Leonard could scarcely breathe. Thetable was covered with pill-boxes and phials, most of which wereemptied, and a dim light was afforded by a candle with a most portentouscrest of snuff. 

"So you have been poisoning yourself, I perceive, " observed Leonard, approaching him. 

"Keep off!" cried the porter, springing suddenly to his feet. "Don'ttouch me, I say. Poisoning myself! I have taken three rufuses, orpestilential pills; two spoonfuls of alexiteral water; the same quantityof anti-pestilential decoction; half as much of Sir Theodore Mayerne'selectuary; and a large dose of orvietan. Do you call that poisoningmyself? I call it taking proper precaution, and would recommend you todo the same. Beside this, I have sprinkled myself with vinegar, fumigated my clothes, and rubbed my nose, inside and out, till itsmarted so intolerably, I was obliged to desist, with balsam ofsulphur. "

"Well, well, if you don't escape the plague, it won't be your fault, "returned Leonard, scarcely able to refrain from laughing. "But I havesomething to tell you before I go. "

"What is the matter?" demanded Blaize, in alarm. "Where--where are yougoing?"

"To fetch the doctor, " replied Leonard. 

"Is Master Stephen worse?" rejoined the porter. 

"On the contrary, I hope he is better, " replied Leonard "I shall be backdirectly, but as I have to give notice to the Examiner of Health thatthe house is infected, I may be detained a few minutes longer than Ianticipate. Keep the street-door locked; I will fasten the yard-gate, and do not for your life let any one in, except Doctor Hodges, till Ireturn. Do you hear?--do you understand what I say?"

"Yes, I hear plain enough, " growled Blaize. "You say that the house isinfected, and that we shall all be locked up. "

"Dolt!" exclaimed the apprentice, "I said no such thing. " And herepeated his injunctions, but Blaize was too much terrified tocomprehend them. At last, losing all patience, Leonard cried in amenacing tone, "If you do not attend to me, I will cudgel you within aninch of your life, and you will find the thrashing harder to bear eventhan the plague itself. Rouse yourself, fool, and follow me. "

Accompanied by the porter, he hurried to the yard-gate, saw it boltedwithin-side, and then returned to the shop, where, having found his capand cudgel, he directed Blaize to lock the door after him, cautioninghim, for the third time, not to admit any one except the doctor. "If Ifind, on my return, that you have neglected my injunctions, " heconcluded, "as sure as I now stand before you, I'll break every bone inyour body. "

Blaize promised obedience, adding in a supplicating tone, "Leonard, if Iwere you, I would not go to the Examiner of Health. Poor Stephen may nothave the plague, after all. It's a dreadful thing to be imprisoned for amonth, for that's the time appointed by the Lord Mayor. Only a week agoI passed several houses in Holborn, shut up on account of the plague, with a watchman at the door, and I never shall forget the melancholyfaces I saw at the windows. It was a dreadful spectacle, and has hauntedme ever since. "

"It cannot be helped, " rejoined Leonard, with a sigh. "If we disobey theLord Mayor's orders, and neglect giving information, we shall all besent to Newgate, while poor Stephen will be taken to the pest-house. Besides, the searchers will be here before morning. They are sure tolearn what has happened from Doctor Hodges. "

"True, true, " replied Blaize; "I had forgotten that. Let me go with you, dear Leonard. I dare not remain here longer. "

"What! would you leave your kind good master, at a time like this, whenhe most needs your services?" rejoined Leonard, reproachfully. "Out, cowardly hound! I am ashamed of you. Shake off your fears, and be a man. You can but die once; and what matters it whether you die of the plagueor the cholic?"

"It matters a great deal, " replied Blaize. "I am afraid of nothing butthe plague. I am sure I shall be its next victim in this house. But youare right--I cannot desert my kind master, nor my old mother. Farewell, Leonard. Perhaps we may never meet again. I may be dead before you comeback. I feel very ill already. "

"No wonder, after all the stuff you have swallowed, " returned Leonard. "But pluck up your courage, or you will bring on the very thing you areanxious to avoid. As many people have died from fear as from any othercause. One word before I go. If any one should get into the house byscaling the yard-wall, or through the window, instantly alarm ourmaster. "

"Certainly, " returned Blaize, with a look of surprise, "But do youexpect any one to enter the house in that way?"

"Ask no questions, but do as I bid you, " rejoined Leonard, opening thedoor, and about to go forth. 

"Stop a moment, " cried Blaize, detaining him, and drawing from hispocket a handful of simples. "Won't you take some of them with you toguard against infection? There's wormwood, woodsorrel, masterwort, zedoary, and angelica; and lastly, there is a little bottle of thesovereign preservative against the plague, as prepared by the great LordBacon, and approved by Queen Elizabeth. Won't you take _that_?"

"I have no fear, " replied Leonard, shutting the door in his face. And ashe lingered for a moment while it was locked, he heard Blaize say tohimself, "I must go and take three more rufuses and a large dose ofdiascordium. "

It was a bright moonlight night, and as the apprentice turned to depart, he perceived a figure hastily retreating on the other side of the way. Making sure it was Maurice Wyvil, though he could not distinguish thegarb of the person--that side of the street being in the shade--andstung by jealousy, he immediately started in pursuit. The fugitivestruck down Lad-lane, and run on till he came to the end ofLawrence-lane, where, finding himself closely pressed, he suddenlyhalted, and pulling his hat over his brows to conceal his features, fiercely confronted his pursuer. 

"Why do you follow me thus, rascal?" he cried, drawing his sword. "Wouldyou rob me? Begone, or I will call the watch. "

"It _is_ his voice!" cried the apprentice. "I have news for you, Mr. Maurice Wyvil. You will not see Amabel to-night. The plague is in herfather's house. "

"The plague!" exclaimed Wyvil, in an altered tone, and dropping thepoint of his sword. "Is she smitten by it?"

The apprentice answered by a bitter laugh, and without tarrying longerto enjoy his rival's distress, set off towards Cheapside. Beforereaching the end of Lawrence-lane, however, he half-repented hisconduct, and halted to see whether Wyvil was following him; but as hecould perceive nothing of him, he continued his course. 

Entering Cheapside, he observed, to his surprise, a crowd of personscollected near the Cross, then standing a little to the east ofWood-street. This cross, which was of great antiquity, and had undergonemany mutilations and alterations since its erection in 1486, when itboasted, amongst other embellishments, images of the Virgin and SaintEdward the Confessor, was still not without some pretensions toarchitectural beauty. In form it was hexagonal, and composed of threetiers, rising from one another like the divisions of a telescope, eachangle being supported by a pillar surmounted by a statue, while theintervening niches were filled up with sculptures, intended to representsome of the sovereigns of England. The structure was of considerableheight, and crowned by a large gilt cross. Its base was protected by astrong wooden railing. About a hundred yards to the east, there stood asmaller hexagonal tower, likewise ornamented with carvings, and having afigure on its conical summit blowing a horn. This was the Conduit. Midway between these buildings the crowd alluded to above was collected. 

As Leonard drew near, he found the assemblage was listening to theexhortations of an enthusiast, whom he instantly recognised from adescription he had heard of him from Blaize. The name of thishalf-crazed being was Solomon Eagle. Originally a Quaker, upon theoutbreak of the plague he had abandoned his home and friends, and roamedthe streets at night, denouncing doom to the city. He was a tall gauntman, with long jet-black hair hanging in disordered masses over hisshoulders. His eyes were large and black, and blazed with insane lustre, and his looks were so wild and terrific, that it required no greatstretch of imagination to convert him into the genius of the pestilence. Entirely stripped of apparel except that his loins were girt with asheep-skin, in imitation of Saint John in the Wilderness, he bore uponhis head a brazier of flaming coals, the lurid light of which fallingupon his sable locks and tawny skin, gave him an unearthly appearance. 

Impelled by curiosity, Leonard paused for a moment to listen, and heardhim thunder forth the following denunciation:--"And now, therefore, asthe prophet Jeremiah saith, 'I have this day declared it to you, but yehave not obeyed the voice of the Lord your God, nor anything for thewhich he hath sent me unto you. Now, therefore, know certainly that yeshall die by the sword, by the famine, and by the pestilence. ' Again, inthe words of the prophet Amos, the Lord saith unto YOU by my mouth, 'Ihave sent among you the pestilence after the manner of Egypt, yet haveyou not returned unto me. Therefore, will I do this unto thee, O Israel;and because I will do this unto thee, prepare to meet thy God?' Do youhear this, O sinners? God will proceed against you in the day of Hiswrath, though He hath borne with you in the day of His patience? O howmany hundred years hath He spared this city, notwithstanding its greatprovocations and wickedness! But now He will no longer show it pity, butwill pour out His wrath upon it I Plagues shall come upon it, anddesolation; and it shall be utterly burnt with fire, --for strong is theLord who judgeth it!"

His address concluded, the enthusiast started off at a swift pace, shrieking, in a voice that caused many persons to throw open theirwindows to listen to him, "Awake! sinners, awake'--the plague is atyour doors!--the grave yawns for you!--awake, and repent!" And followedby the crowd, many of whom kept up with him, he ran on vociferating inthis manner till he was out of hearing. 

Hurrying forward in the opposite direction, Leonard glanced at theancient and picturesque houses on either side of the way, --now bathedin the moonlight, and apparently hushed in repose and security, --and hecould not repress a shudder as he reflected that an evil angel was, indeed, abroad, who might suddenly arouse their slumbering inmates todespair and death. His thoughts took another turn as he entered theprecincts of Saint Paul's, and surveyed the venerable and majesticfabric before him. His eyes rested upon its innumerable crocketedpinnacles, its buttresses, its battlements, and upon the magnificentrose-window terminating the choir. The apprentice had no especial lovefor antiquity, but being of an imaginative turn, the sight of thisreverend structure conjured up old recollections, and brought to mindthe noble Collegiate Church of his native town. 

"Shall I ever see Manchester again?" he sighed: "shall I take Amabelwith me there? Alas! I doubt it. If I survive the plague, she, I fear, will never be mine. "

Musing thus, he scanned the roof of the cathedral, and noticing itsstunted central tower, could not help thinking how much more strikingits effects must have been, when the lofty spire it once supported wasstanding. The spire, it may be remarked, was twice destroyed bylightning; first in February, 1444, and subsequently in June, 1561, whenit was entirely burnt down, and never rebuilt. Passing the ConvocationHouse, which then stood at one side of the southern transept, Leonardstruck down Paul's Chain, and turning to the right, speeded along GreatKnightrider-street, until he reached an old habitation at the corner ofthe passage leading to Doctors' Commons. 

Knocking at the door, an elderly servant presently appeared, and inanswer to his inquiries whether Doctor Hodges was at home, stated thathe had gone out, about half an hour ago, to attend Mr. Fisher, aproctor, who had been suddenly attacked by the plague at his residencein Bartholomew-close, near Smithfield. 

"I am come on the same errand, " said Leonard, "and must see your masterinstantly. "

"If you choose to go to Bartholomew-close, " replied the servant, "youmay probably meet with him. Mr. Fisher's house is the last but two, onthe right, before you come to the area in front of the church. "

"I can easily find it, " returned Leonard, "and will run there as fast asI can. But if your master should pass me on the road, beseech him to goinstantly to Stephen Bloundell's, the grocer, in Wood-street. "

The servant assenting, Leonard hastily retraced his steps, andtraversing Blow-bladder-street and Saint-Martin's-le-Grand, passedthrough Aldersgate. He then shaped his course through the windings ofLittle Britain and entered Duck-lane. He was now in a quarter fearfullyassailed by the pestilence. Most of the houses had the fatal sign upontheir doors--a red cross, of a foot long, with the piteous words aboveit, "Lord have mercy upon us, " in characters so legible that they couldbe easily distinguished by the moonlight, while a watchman, with ahalberd in his hand, kept guard outside. 

Involuntarily drawing in his breath, Leonard quickened his pace. But hemet with an unexpected and fearful interruption. Just as he reached thenarrow passage leading from Duck-lane to Bartholomew-close, he heard theringing of a bell, followed by a hoarse voice, crying, "Bring out yourdead--bring out your dead!" he then perceived that a large, strangely-shaped cart stopped up the further end of the passage, andheard a window open, and a voice call out that all was ready. The nextmoment a light was seen at the door, and a coffin was brought out andplaced in the cart. This done, the driver, who was smoking a pipe, cracked his whip, and put the vehicle in motion. 

Shrinking into a doorway, and holding a handkerchief to his face, toavoid breathing the pestilential effluvia, Leonard saw that there wereother coffins in the cart, and that it was followed by two persons inlong black cloaks. The vehicle itself, fashioned like an open hearse, and of the same sombre colour, relieved by fantastical designs, paintedin white, emblematic of the pestilence, was drawn by a horse of thelarge black Flanders breed, and decorated with funeral trappings. ToLeonard's inexpressible horror, the cart again stopped opposite him, andthe driver ringing his bell, repeated his doleful cry. While anothercoffin was brought out, and placed with the rest, a window in the nexthouse was opened, and a woman looking forth screamed, "Is AnselmChowles, the coffin-maker, there?"

"Yes, here I am, Mother Malmayns, " replied one of the men in blackcloaks, looking up as he spoke, and exhibiting features so hideous, andstamped with such a revolting expression, that Leonard's blood curdledat the sight. "What do you want with me?" he added. 

"I want you to carry away old Mike Norborough, " replied the woman. 

"What, is the old miser gone at last?" exclaimed Chowles, with anatrocious laugh. "But how shall I get paid for a coffin?"

"You may pay yourself with what you can find in the house, " repliedMother Malmayns; "or you may carry him to the grave without one, if youprefer it. "

"No, no, that won't do, " returned Chowles. "I've other customers toattend to who _will_ pay; and, besides, I want to get home. I expectfriends at supper. Good-night, Mother Malmayns. You know where to findme, if you want me. Move on, Jonas, or you will never reach SaintSepulchre's. "

The woman angrily expostulated with him, and some further parleyensued, --Leonard did not tarry to hear what, but rushing past them, gained Bartholomew-close. 

He soon reached the proctor's house, and found it marked with the fatalcross. Addressing a watchman at the door, he learnt, to his greatdismay, that Doctor Hodges had been gone more than a quarter of an hour. "He was too late, " said the man. "Poor Mr. Fisher had breathed his lastbefore he arrived, and after giving some directions to the family as tothe precautions they ought to observe, the doctor departed. "

"How unfortunate!" exclaimed Leonard, "I have missed him a second time. But I will run back to his house instantly. "

"You will not find him at home, " returned the watchman "He is gone toSaint Paul's, to attend a sick person. "

"To Saint Paul's at this hour!" cried the apprentice. "Why, no one isthere, except the vergers or the sexton. "

"He is gone to visit the sexton, who is ill of the plague, " replied thewatchman. "I have told you all I know about him. You can do what youthink best. "

Determined to make another effort before giving in, Leonard hurried backas fast as he could. While threading Duck-lane, he heard the dolefulbell again, and perceived the dead-cart standing before a house, fromwhich two small coffins were brought. Hurrying past the vehicle, heremarked that its load was fearfully increased, but that thecoffin-maker and his companion had left it. Another minute had notelapsed before he reached Aldersgate, and passing through the postern, he beheld a light at the end of Saint Anne's-lane, and heard theterrible voice of Solomon Eagle, calling to the sleepers to awake andrepent. 

Shutting his ears to the cry, Leonard did not halt till he reached thegreat western door of the cathedral, against which he knocked. His firstsummons remaining unanswered, he repeated it, and a wicket was thenopened by a grey-headed verger, with a lantern in his hand, who at firstwas very angry at being disturbed; but on learning whom the applicantwas in search of, and that the case was one of urgent necessity, headmitted that the doctor was in the cathedral at the time. 

"Or rather, I should say, " he added, "he is in Saint Faith's. I willconduct you to him, if you think proper. Doctor Hodges is a good man, --acharitable man, " he continued, "and attends the poor for nothing. He isnow with Matthew Malmayns, the sexton, who was taken ill of the plagueyesterday, and will get nothing but thanks--if he gets those--for hisfee. But, follow me, young man, follow me. "

So saying, he shut the wicket, and led the way along the transept. Thepath was uneven, many of the flags having been removed, and the vergeroften paused to throw a light upon the ground, and warn his companion ofa hole. 

On arriving at the head of the nave, Leonard cast his eyes down it, andwas surprised at the magical effect of the moonlight upon itsmagnificent avenue of pillars; the massive shafts on the left beingcompletely illuminated by the silvery beams, while those on the rightlay in deep shadow. 

"Ay, it is a noble structure, " replied the old verger, noticing his lookof wonder and admiration, "and, like many a proud human being, has knownbetter days. It has seen sad changes in my time, for I recollect it whengood Queen Bess ruled the land. But come along, young man, --you havesomething else to think of now. "

Bestowing a momentary glance upon the matchless choir, with its groinedroof, its clerestory windows, its arched openings, its carved stalls, and its gorgeous rose-window, Leonard followed his conductor through asmall doorway on the left of the southern transept, and descending aflight of stone steps, entered a dark and extensive vault, for such itseemed. The feeble light of the lantern fell upon ranks of short heavypillars, supporting a ponderous arched roof. 

"You are now in Saint Faith's, " observed the verger, "and above you isthe choir of Saint Paul's. "

Leonard took no notice of the remark, but silently crossing the nave ofthis beautiful subterranean church (part of which still exists), traversed its northern aisle. At length the verger stopped before theentrance of a small chapel, once dedicated to Saint John the Baptist, but now devoted to a less sacred purpose. As they advanced, Leonardobserved a pile of dried skulls and bones in one corner, a stone coffin, strips of woollen shrouds, fragments of coffins, mattocks, and spades. It was evidently half a charnel, half a receptacle for the sexton'stools. 

"If you choose to open that door, " said the verger, pointing to one atthe lower end of the chamber, "you will find him you seek. I shall go nofurther. "

Summoning up all his resolution, Leonard pushed open the door. Afrightful scene met his gaze. At one side of a deep, low-roofed vault, the architecture of which was of great antiquity, and showed that it hadbeen a place of burial, was stretched a miserable pallet, and upon it, covered by a single blanket, lay a wretch, whose groans and strugglesproclaimed the anguish he endured. A lamp was burning on the floor, andthrew a sickly light upon the agonized countenance of the sufferer. Hewas a middle-aged man, with features naturally harsh, but which now, contracted by pain, had assumed a revolting expression. An old crone, who proved to be his mother, and a young man, who held him down in bedby main force, tended him. He was rambling in a frightful manner; and ashis ravings turned upon the most loathly matters, it required somefirmness to listen to them. 

At a little distance from him, upon a bench, sat a stout, shrewd-looking, but benevolent little personage, somewhat between fortyand fifty. This was Doctor Hodges. He had a lancet in his hand, withwhich he had just operated upon the sufferer, and he was in the act ofwiping it on a cloth. As Leonard entered the vault, the doctor observedto the attendants of the sick man, "He will recover. The tumour hasdischarged its venom. Keep him as warm as you can, and do not let himleave his bed for two days. All depends upon that. I will send himproper medicines and some blankets shortly. If he takes cold, it will befatal. "

The young man promised to attend to the doctor's injunctions, and theold woman mumbled her thanks. 

"Where is Judith Malmayns?" asked Doctor Hodges: "I am surprised not tosee her. Is she afraid of the distemper?"

"Afraid of it!--not she, " replied the old woman. "Since the plague hasraged so dreadfully, she has gone out as a nurse to the sick, and mypoor son has seen nothing of her. "

Leonard then recollected that he had heard the woman, who called out ofthe miser's house, addressed as Mother Malmayns by the coffin-maker, andhad no doubt that she was the sexton's wife. His entrance having been sonoiseless that it passed unnoticed, he now stepped forward, and, addressing Doctor Hodges, acquainted him with his errand. 

"What!" exclaimed the doctor, as soon as he concluded, "a son of StephenBloundel, the worthy grocer of Wood-street, attacked by the plague! Iwill go with you instantly, young man. I have a great regard for yourmaster--a very great regard. There is not a better man living. The poorlad must be saved, if possible. " And hastily repeating his instructionsto the attendants of the sick man, he left the vault with theapprentice. 

They found the verger in the charnel, and before quitting it, the doctordrew a small flask of canary from his pocket, and applied it to hislips. 

"This is my anti-pestilential drink, " he remarked with a smile, "and ithas preserved me from contagion hitherto. You must let us out of thesouth door, friend, " he added to the verger, "for I shall be obliged tostep home for a moment, and it will save time. Come with me, young man, and tell me what has been done for the grocer's son. "

As they traversed the gloomy aisle of Saint Faith, and mounted to theupper structure, Leonard related all that had taken place since poorStephen's seizure. The doctor strongly expressed his approval of whathad been done, and observed, "It could not be better. With Heaven'shelp, I have no doubt we shall save him, and I am truly glad of it forhis father's sake. "

By this time they had reached the southern door, and the verger havingunlocked it, they issued forth. It was still bright moonlight, andLeonard, whose mind was greatly relieved by the assurances of thephysician, felt in some degree reconciled to the delay, and kept up hispart in the conversation promoted by his companion. The doctor, who wasan extremely kind-hearted man, and appeared to have a great regard forthe grocer, made many inquiries as to his family, and spoke in terms ofthe highest admiration of the beauty of his eldest daughter. The mentionof Amabel's name, while it made Leonard's cheek burn, rekindled all hisjealousy of Wyvil, and he tried to make some excuse to get away, but hiscompanion would not hear of it. 

"I tell you there is no hurry, " said the doctor; "all is going on aswell as possible. I will make your excuses to your master. "

"On reaching the doctor's house they were ushered into a large room, surrounded with bookshelves and cases of anatomical preparations. Hodgesseated himself at a table, on which a shaded lamp was placed, andwriting out a prescription, desired his servant to get it made up at aneighbouring apothecary's, and to take it, with a couple of blankets, tothe sexton of Saint Paul's. He then produced a bottle of medicatedcanary, and pouring out a large glass for the apprentice, drainedanother himself. 

"I will answer for its virtue, " he said: "it is a sure preservativeagainst the plague. "

Having furnished himself with several small packets of simples, a fewpots of ointment, one or two phials, and a case of surgical instruments, he told Leonard he was ready to attend him. 

"We will go round by Warwick-lane, " he added. "I must call upon Chowles, the coffin-maker. It will not detain us a moment; and I have an order togive him. "

The mention of this name brought to Leonard's mind the hideous attendanton the dead-cart, and he had no doubt he was the person in question. Itdid not become him, however, to make a remark, and they set out. 

Mounting Addle-hill, and threading Ave-Maria-lane, they enteredWarwick-lane, and about half-way up the latter thoroughfare, the doctorstopped before a shop, bearing on its immense projecting sign therepresentation of a coffin lying in state, and covered with scutcheons, underneath which was written, "ANSELM CHOWLES, COFFIN-MAKER. "

"I do not think you will find Mr. Chowles at home, " observed Leonard:"for I saw him with the dead-cart not half an hour ago. "

"Very likely, " returned the doctor; "but I shall see one of his men. Thecoffin-maker's business is now carried on in the night time, " he added, with a sigh; "and he drives a flourishing trade. These sad times willmake his fortune. "

As he spoke, he rapped with his cane at the door, which, after a littledelay, was opened by a young man in a carpenter's dress, with a hammerin his hand. On seeing who it was, this person exhibited greatconfusion, and would have retired; but the doctor, pushing him aside, asked for his master. 

"You cannot see him just now, sir, " replied the other, evidentlyconsiderably embarrassed. "He is just come home greatly fatigued, and isabout to retire to rest. "

"No matter, " returned the doctor, entering a room, in which three orfour other men were at work, hastily finishing coffins; "I _must_ seehim. "

No further opposition being offered, Hodges, followed by the apprentice, marched towards an inner room. Just as he reached the door, a burst ofloud laughter, evidently proceeding from a numerous party, arose fromwithin, and a harsh voice was heard chanting the following strains:

 SONG OF THE PLAGUE. To others the Plague a foe may be, To me 'tis a friend--not an enemy; My coffins and coffers alike it fills, And the richer I grow the more it kills. _Drink the Plague! Drink the Plague!_

 For months, for years, may it spend its rage On lusty manhood and trembling age; Though half mankind of the scourge should die, My coffins will sell--so what care I? _Drink the Plague! Drink the Plague!_

Loud acclamations followed the song, and the doctor, who was filled withdisgust and astonishment, opened the door. He absolutely recoiled at thescene presented to his gaze. In the midst of a large room, the sides ofwhich were crowded with coffins, piled to the very ceiling, sat about adozen personages, with pipes in their mouths, and flasks and glassesbefore them. Their seats were coffins, and their table was a coffin setupon a bier. Perched on a pyramid of coffins, gradually diminishing insize as the pile approached its apex, Chowles was waving a glass in onehand, and a bottle in the other, when the doctor made his appearance. 

A more hideous personage cannot be imagined than the coffin-maker. Hewas clothed in a suit of rusty black, which made his skeleton limbs lookyet more lean and cadaverous. His head was perfectly bald, and itsyellow skin, divested of any artificial covering, glistened likepolished ivory. His throat was long and scraggy, and supported a headunrivalled for ugliness. His nose had been broken in his youth, and wasalmost compressed flat with his face. His few remaining teeth wereyellow and discoloured with large gaps between them. His eyes werebright, and set in deep cavernous recesses, and, now that he was morethan half-intoxicated, gleamed with unnatural lustre. The friends bywhom he was surrounded were congenial spirits, --searchers, watchmen, buriers, apothecaries, and other wretches, who, like himself, rejoicedin the pestilence, because it was a source of profit to them. 

At one corner of the room, with a part-emptied glass before her, andseveral articles in her lap, which she hastily pocketed on the entranceof the doctor, sat the plague-nurse, Mother Malmayns; and Leonardthought her, if possible, more villainous-looking than her companions. She was a rough, raw-boned woman, with sandy hair and light brows, asallow, freckled complexion, a nose with wide nostrils, and a large, thick-lipped mouth. She had, moreover, a look of mingled cunning andferocity inexpressibly revolting. 

Sharply rebuking Chowles, who, in springing from his lofty seat, upsetseveral of the topmost coffins, the doctor gave him some directions, and, turning to the nurse, informed her of her husband's condition, andordered her to go to him immediately Mother Malmayns arose, and glancingsignificantly at the coffin-maker, took her departure. 

Repeating his injunctions to Chowles in a severe tone, the doctorfollowed; and seeing her take the way towards Saint Paul's, proceeded ata brisk pace along Paternoster-row with the apprentice. In a few minutesthey reached Wood-street, and knocking at the door, were admitted byBlaize. 

"Heaven be praised, you are come at last!" exclaimed the porter. "Ourmaster began to think something had happened to you. "

"It is all my fault, " returned Doctor Hodges; "but how is the youngman?"

"Better, much better, as I understand, " replied Blaize; "but I have notseen him. "

"Come, that's well, " rejoined Hodges. "Lead me to his room. "

"Leonard will show you the way, " returned the porter, holding back. 

Glancing angrily at Blaize, the apprentice conducted the doctor to theinner room, where they found the grocer, with the Bible on his knee, watching by the bedside of his son. He was delighted with theirappearance, but looked inquisitively at his apprentice for someexplanation of his long absence. This Hodges immediately gave; and, having examined the sufferer, he relieved the anxious father bydeclaring, that, with due care, he had little doubt of his son'srecovery. 

"God be praised!" exclaimed Bloundel, falling on his knees. 

Hodges then gave minute directions to the grocer as to how he was toproceed, and told him it would be necessary for some time to keep hisfamily separate. To this Bloundel readily agreed. The doctor's nextinquiries were, whether notice had been given to the Examiner of Health, and the grocer referring to Leonard, the latter acknowledged that he hadforgotten it, but undertook to repair his omission at once. 

With this view, he quitted the room, and was hastening towards the shop, when he observed a figure on the back stairs. Quickly mounting them, heovertook on the landing Maurice Wyvil. 

 * * * * *

III. 

THE GAMESTER AND THE BULLY. 

Before proceeding further, it will be necessary to retrace our steps fora short time, and see what was done by Maurice Wyvil after the alarmingannouncement made to him by the apprentice. Of a selfish nature andungovernable temper, and seeking only in the pursuit of the grocer'sdaughter the gratification of his lawless desires, he was filled, in thefirst instance, with furious disappointment at being robbed of theprize, at the very moment he expected it to fall into his hands. Butthis feeling was quickly effaced by anxiety respecting his mistress, whose charms, now that there was every probability of losing her (forLeonard's insinuation had led him to believe she was assailed by thepestilence), appeared doubly attractive to him; and scarcely under thegovernance of reason, he hurried towards Wood-street, resolved to forcehis way into the house, and see her again, at all hazards. His wilddesign, however, was fortunately prevented. As he passed the end of thecourt leading to the ancient inn (for it was ancient even at the time ofthis history), the Swan-with-two-Necks, in Lad-lane, a young man, asrichly attired as himself, and about his own age, who had seen himapproaching, suddenly darted from it, and grasping his cloak, detainedhim. 

"I thought it must be you, Wyvil, " cried this person. "Where are yourunning so quickly? I see neither angry father, nor jealous apprentice, at your heels. What has become of the girl? Are you tired of heralready?"

"Let me go, Lydyard, " returned Wyvil, trying to extricate himself fromhis companion's hold, who was no other than the gallant that hadaccompanied him on his first visit to the grocer's shop, and had playedhis part so adroitly in the scheme devised between them to procure aninterview with Amabel, --"let me go, I say, I am in no mood for jesting. "

"Why, what the plague is the matter?" rejoined Lydyard. "Has yourmistress played you false? Have you lost your wager?"

"The plague _is_ the matter, " replied Wyvil, sternly. "Amabel isattacked by it. I must see her instantly. "

"The devil!" exclaimed Lydyard. "Here is a pretty termination to theaffair. But if this is really the case, you must _not_ see her. It isone thing to be run through the arm, --which you must own I managed asdexterously as the best master of fence could have done, --and lose a fewdrops of blood for a mistress, but it is another to brave the plague onher account. "

"I care for nothing, " replied Wyvil; "I _will_ see her. "

"This is madness!" remonstrated Lydyard, still maintaining his grasp. "What satisfaction will it afford you to witness her sufferings--to seethe frightful ravages made upon her charms by this remorselessdisease, --to throw her whole family into consternation, and destroy thelittle chance she may have of recovery, by your presence? What good willthis do? No, --you must pay your wager to Sedley, and forget her. "

"I cannot forget her, " replied Wyvil. "My feelings have undergone atotal change. If I _am_ capable of real love, it is for her. "

"Real love!" exclaimed Lydyard, in an incredulous tone. "If the subjectwere not too serious, I should laugh in your face. No doubt you wouldmarry her, and abandon your design upon the rich heiress, prettyMistress Mallet, whom old Rowley recommended to your attention, and whomthe fair Stewart has more than half-won for you?"

"I would, " replied the other, energetically. 

"Nay, then, you are more insane than I thought you, " rejoined Lydyard, relinquishing his hold; "and the sooner you take the plague the better. It may cure your present brain fever. I shall go back to Parravicin, andthe others. You will not require my assistance further. "

"I know not, " replied Wyvil, distractedly; "I have not yet given up myintention of carrying off the girl. "

"If you carry her oft in this state, " rejoined the other, "it must be tothe pest-house. But who told you she was attacked by the plague?"

"Her father's apprentice, " replied Wyvil. 

"And you believed him?" demanded Lydyard, with a derisive laugh. 

"Undoubtedly, " replied Wyvil. "Why not?"

"Because it is evidently a mere trick to frighten you from the house, "rejoined Lydyard. "I am surprised so shallow a device should succeedwith _you_. "

"I wish I could persuade myself it was a trick, " returned Wyvil. "Butthe fellow's manner convinced me he was in earnest. "

"Well, I will not dispute the point, though I am sure I am right, "returned Lydyard. "But be not too precipitate. Since the apprentice hasseen you, some alteration may be necessary in your plans. Come with meinto the house. A few minutes can make no difference. "

Wyvil suffered himself to be led up the court, and passing through adoor on the left, they entered a spacious room, across which ran a longtable, furnished at one end with wine and refreshments, and at the otherwith cards and dice. 

Three persons were seated at the table, the most noticeable of whom wasa dissipated-looking young man, dressed in the extremity of theprevailing mode, with ruffles of the finest colbertine, three inches indepth, at his wrists; a richly-laced cravat round his throat; white silkhose, adorned with gold clocks; velvet shoes of the same colour as thehose, fastened with immense roses; a silver-hilted sword, supported by abroad embroidered silk band; and a cloak and doublet ofcarnation-coloured velvet, woven with gold, and decorated withinnumerable glittering points and ribands. He had a flowing wig offlaxen hair, and a broad-leaved hat, looped with a diamond buckle, andplaced negligently on the left side of his head. His figure was slight, but extremely well formed; and his features might have been termedhandsome, but for their reckless and licentious expression. He wasaddressed by his companions as Sir Paul Parravicin. 

The person opposite to him, whose name was Disbrowe, and who waslikewise a very handsome young man, though his features were flushed anddisturbed, partly by the wine he had drunk, and partly by his losses atplay, was equipped in the splendid accoutrements of a captain in theking's body-guard. His left hand convulsively clutched an empty purse, and his eyes were fixed upon a large sum of money, which he had justhanded over to the knight, and which the latter was carelesslytransferring to his pocket. 

The last of the three, whose looks betrayed his character--that of asharper and a bully--called himself Major Pillichody, his pretensions tomilitary rank being grounded upon his service (so ran his own statement, though it was never clearly substantiated) in the king's army during thecivil wars. Major Pillichody was a man of remarkably fierce exterior. Seamed with many scars, and destitute of the left eye, the orifice ofwhich was covered, with a huge black patch; his face was of a deepmulberry colour, clearly attesting his devotion to the bottle; while hisnose, which was none of the smallest, was covered with "bubukles, andwhelks, and knobs, and flames of fire. " He was of the middle size, stoutly built, and given to corpulency, though not so much so as toimpair his activity. His attire consisted of a cloak and doublet ofscarlet cloth, very much stained and tarnished, and edged with goldlace, likewise the worse for wear; jack-boots, with huge funnel tops;spurs, with enormous rowels, and a rapier of preposterous length. Hewore his own hair, which was swart and woolly, like that of a negro; andhad beard and moustaches to match. His hat was fiercely cocked; hisgestures swaggering and insolent; and he was perpetually racking hisbrain to invent new and extra-ordinary oaths. 

"So soon returned!" cried Parravicin, as Wyvil appeared. "Accept mycongratulations?"

"And mine!" cried Pillichody. "We wild fellows have but to be seen toconquer. Sugar and spice, and all that's nice!" he added, smacking hislips, as he filled a glass from a long-necked bottle on the table; "Maythe grocer's daughter prove sweeter than her father's plums, and moremelting than his butter! Is she without? Are we to see her?"

Wyvil made no answer, but, walking to the other end of the room, threwhimself into a chair, and, covering his face with his hands, appearedwrapped in thought. Lydyard took a seat beside him, and endeavoured toengage him in conversation; but, finding his efforts fruitless, hedesisted. 

"Something is wrong, " observed Parravicin, to the major. "He has beenfoiled in his attempt to carry off the girl. Sedley has won his wager, and it is a heavy sum. Shall we resume our play?" he added, to Disbrowe. 

"I have nothing more to lose, " observed the young man, filling a largegoblet to the brim, and emptying it at a draught. "You are master ofevery farthing I possess. "

"Hum!" exclaimed Parravicin, taking up a pack of cards, and snappingthem between his finger and thumb. "You are married, Captain Disbrowe?"

"What if I am?" cried the young man, becoming suddenly pale; "what if Iam?" he repeated. 

"I am told your wife is beautiful, " replied Parravicin. 

"Beautiful!" ejaculated Pillichody; "by the well-filled coffers of thewidow of Watling-street! she is an angel. Beautiful is not the word:Mrs. Disbrowe is divine!"

"You have never seen her, " said the young man, sternly. 

"Ha!--fire and fury! my word doubted, " cried the major, fiercely. "Ihave seen her at the play-houses, at the Mulberry-garden, at court, andat church. Not seen her! By the one eye of a Cyclops, but I have! Youshall hear my description of her, and judge of its correctness. _Imprimis_, she has a tall and majestic figure, and might be a queen forher dignity. "

"Go on, " said Disbrowe, by no means displeased with the commencement. 

"Secondly, " pursued Pillichody, "she has a clear olive complexion, bright black eyes, hair and brows to match, a small foot, a prettyturn-up nose, a dimpling cheek, a mole upon her throat, the rosiest lipsimaginable, an alluring look--"

"No more, " interrupted Disbrowe. "It is plain you have never seen her. "

"Unbelieving pagan!" exclaimed the major, clapping his hand furiouslyupon his sword. "I have done more--I have spoken with her. "

"A lie!" replied Disbrowe, hurling a dice-box at his head. 

"Ha!" roared Pillichody, in a voice of thunder, and pushing back hischair till it was stopped by the wall. "Death and fiends! I will makemincemeat of your heart, and send it as a love-offering to your wife. "

And, whipping out his long rapier, he would have assaulted Disbrowe, ifSir Paul had not interposed, and commanded him authoritatively to put uphis blade. 

"You shall have your revenge in a safer way, " he whispered. 

"Well, Sir Paul, " rejoined the bully, with affected reluctance, "as youdesire it, I will spare the young man's life. I must wash away theinsult in burgundy, since I cannot do so in blood. "

With this, he emptied the flask next him, and called to a drawer, whowas in attendance, in an imperious tone, to bring two more bottles. 

Parravicin, meanwhile, picked up the dice-box, and, seating himself, spread a large heap of gold on the table. 

"I mentioned your wife, Captain Disbrowe, " he said, addressing the youngofficer, who anxiously watched his movements, "not with any intention ofgiving you offence, but to show you that, although you have lost yourmoney, you have still a valuable stake left. "

"I do not understand you, Sir Paul, " returned Disbrowe, with a look ofindignant surprise. 

"To be plain, then, " replied Parravicin, "I have won from you twohundred pounds--all you possess. You are a ruined man, and, as such, will run any hazard to retrieve your losses. I give you a last chance. Iwill stake all my winnings, nay, double the amount, against your wife. You have a key of the house you inhabit, by which you admit yourself atall hours; so at least the major informs me. If I win, that key shall bemine. I will take my chance for the rest. Do you understand me now?"

"I do, " replied the young man, with concentrated fury. "I understandthat you are a villain. You have robbed me of my money, and would rob meof my honour. "

"These are harsh words, sir, " replied the knight, calmly; "but let thempass. We will play first, and fight afterwards. But you refuse mychallenge ?"

"It is false!" replied Disbrowe, fiercely, "I accept it. " And producinga key, he threw it on the table. "My life is, in truth, set on the die, "he added, with a desperate look--"for if I lose, I will not survive myshame. "

"You will not forget our terms, " observed Parravicin. "I am to be yourrepresentative to-night. You can return home to-morrow. "

"Throw, sir--throw, " cried the young man, fiercely. 

"Pardon, me, " replied the knight; "the first cast is with you. A singlemain decides it. "

"Be it so, " returned Disbrowe, seizing the box. And as he shook the dicewith a frenzied air, the major and Lydyard drew near the table, and evenWyvil roused himself to watch the result. 

"Twelve!" cried Disbrowe, as he removed the box. "My honour is saved! Myfortune retrieved--Huzza!"

"Not so fast, " returned Parravicin, shaking the box in his turn. "Youwere a little too hasty, " he added, uncovering the dice. "I am twelve, too. We must throw again. "

"This to decide, " cried the young officer, again rattling the dice. "Six!"

Parravicin smiled, took the box, and threw ten. 

"Perdition!" ejaculated Disbrowe, striking his brow with his clenchedhand. "What devil tempted me to my undoing?--My wife trusted to thisprofligate! Horror!--it must not be!"

"It is too late to retract, " replied Parravicin, taking up the key, andturning with a triumphant look to his friends. 

Disbrowe noticed the smile, and stung beyond endurance, drew his sword, and called to the knight to defend himself. 

In an instant, passes were exchanged. But the conflict was brief. Fortune, as before, declared herself in favour of Parravicin. Hedisarmed his assailant, who rushed out of the room, uttering the wildestejaculations of rage and despair. 

"I told you you should have your revenge, " observed the knight toPillichody, as soon as Disbrowe was gone. "Is his wife really asbeautiful as you represent her?"

"Words are too feeble to paint her charms, " replied the major. "Shaftsof Cupid! she must be seen to be appreciated. "

"Enough!" returned Parravicin. "I have not made a bad night's work ofit, so far. I'faith, Wyvil, I pity you. To lose a heavy wager isprovoking enough--but to lose a pretty mistress is the devil. "

"I have lost neither yet, " replied Wyvil, who had completely recoveredhis spirits, and joined in the general merriment occasioned by theforegoing occurrence. "I have been baffled, not defeated. What say youto an exchange of mistresses? I am so diverted with your adventure, thatI am half inclined to give you the grocer's daughter for Disbrowe'swife. She is a superb creature--languid as a Circassian, and passionateas an Andalusian. "

"I can't agree to the exchange, especially after your rapturousdescription, " returned Parravicin, "but I'll stake Mrs. Disbrowe againstAmabel. The winner shall have both. A single cast shall decide, asbefore. "

"No, " replied Wyvil, "I could not resign Amabel, if I lost. And the luckis all on your side to-night. "

"As you please, " rejoined the knight, sweeping the glittering pile intohis pocket. "Drawer, another bottle of burgundy. A health to ourmistresses!" he added, quaffing a brimmer. 

"A health to the grocer's daughter!" cried Wyvil, with difficultyrepressing a shudder, as he uttered the pledge. 

"A health to the rich widow of Watling-street, " cried Pillichody, draining a bumper, "and may I soon call her mine!"

"I have no mistress to toast, " said Lydyard; "and I have drunk wineenough. Do not forget, gentlemen, that the plague is abroad. "

"You are the death's-head at the feast, Lydyard, " rejoined Parravicin, setting down his glass. "I hate the idea of the plague. It poisons allour pleasures. We must meet at noon to-morrow, at the Smyrna, to comparenotes as to our successes. Before we separate, can I be of any furtherservice to you, Wyvil? I came here to enjoy _your_ triumph; but, egad, Ihave found so admirable a bubble in that hot-headed Disbrowe, whom I metat the Smyrna, and brought here to while away the time, that I mustdemand your congratulations upon _mine_. "

"You have certainly achieved an easy victory over the husband, " returnedWyvil; "and I trust your success with the wife will be commensurate. Irequire no further assistance. What I have to do must be done alone. Lydyard will accompany me to the house, and then I must shift formyself. "

"Nay, we will all see you safe inside, " returned Parravicin, "We shallpass by the grocer's shop. I know it well, having passed it a hundredtimes, in the vain hope of catching a glimpse of its lovely inmate. "

"I am glad it _was_ a vain hope, " replied Wyvil. "But I must scale awall to surprise the garrison. "

"In that case you will need the rope-ladder, " replied Lydyard; "it is inreadiness. "

"I will carry it, " said Pillichody, picking up the ladder which waslying in a corner of the room, and throwing it over his shoulders. "Bombs and batteries! I like to be an escalader when the forts of loveare stormed. "

The party then set out. As they proceeded, Parravicin ascertained fromthe major that Disbrowe's house was situated in a small street leadingout of Piccadilly, but as he could not be quite sure that he understoodhis informant aright, he engaged him to accompany him and point it out. 

By this time they had reached Wood-street, and keeping in the shade, reconnoitred the house. But though Wyvil clapped his hands, blew ashrill whistle, and made other signals, no answer was returned, nor wasa light seen at any of the upper windows. On the contrary, all was stilland silent as death. 

The grocer's was a large, old-fashioned house, built about the middle ofthe preceding century, or perhaps earlier, and had four stories, eachprojecting over the other, till the pile seemed completely to overhangthe street. The entire front, except the upper story, which wasprotected by oaken planks, was covered with panels of the same timber, and the projections were supported by heavy beams, embellished withgrotesque carvings. Three deeply-embayed windows, having stout woodenbars, filled with minute diamond panes, set in leaden frames, wereallotted to each floor; while the like number of gables, ornamented withcuriously-carved coignes, and long-moulded leaden spouts, shooting farinto the street, finished the roof. A huge sign, with the device ofNoah's Ark, and the owner's name upon it, hung before the door. 

After carefully examining the house, peeping through the chinks in thelower shutters, and discovering the grocer seated by the bedside of hisson, though he could not make out the object of his solicitude, Wyvildecided upon attempting an entrance by the backyard. To reach it, acourt and a narrow alley, leading to an open space surrounded by highwalls, had to be traversed. Arrived at this spot, Wyvil threw one end ofthe rope ladder over the wall, which was about twelve feet high, andspeedily succeeding in securing it, mounted, and drawing it up afterhim, waved his hand to his companions, and disappeared on the otherside. After waiting for a moment to listen, and hearing a window open, they concluded he had gained admittance, and turned to depart. 

"And now for Mrs. Disbrowe!" cried Parravicin. "We shall find a coach ora chair in Cheapside. Can I take you westward, Lydyard?"

But the other declined the offer, saying, "I will not desert Wyvil. Ifeel certain he will get into some scrape, and may need me to help himout of it. Take care of yourself, Parravicin. Beware of the plague, andof what is worse than the plague, an injured husband. Good-night, major. "

"Farewell, sir, " returned Pillichody, raising his hat. "A merrywatching, and a good catching, as the sentinels were wont to say, when Iserved King Charles the First. Sir Paul, I attend you. "

IV. 

THE INTERVIEW. 

Maurice Wyvil, as his friends conjectured, had found his way into thehouse. Creeping through the window, and entering a passage, he movednoiselessly along till he reached the head of the kitchen stairs, where, hearing voices below, and listening to what was said, he soonascertained from the discourse of the speakers, who were no other thanold Josyna and Patience, that it was not the grocer's daughter, but oneof his sons, who was attacked by the plague, and that Amabel was inperfect health, though confined in her mother's bedroom. 

Overjoyed at the information he had thus acquired, he retired asnoiselessly as he came, and after searching about for a short time, discovered the main staircase, and ascended it on the points of hisfeet. He had scarcely, however, mounted a dozen steps, when a dooropened, and Blaize crawled along the passage, groaning to himself, andkeeping his eyes bent on the ground. Seeing he was unnoticed, Wyvilgained the landing, and treading softly, placed his ear at every door, until at last the musical accents of Amabel convinced him he had hitupon the right one. 

His heart beat so violently that, for a few seconds, he was unable tomove. Becoming calmer, he tried the door, and finding it locked, rappedwith his knuckles against it. The grocer's wife demanded who was there. But Wyvil, instead of returning an answer, repeated his application. Thesame demand followed, and in a louder key. Still no answer. A thirdsummons, however, so alarmed Mrs. Bloundel, that, forgetful of herhusband's injunctions, she opened the door and looked out; but, as Wyvilhad hastily retired into a recess, she could see no one. 

Greatly frightened and perplexed, Mrs. Bloundel rushed to the head ofthe stairs, to see whether there was any one below; and as she did so, Wyvil slipped into the room, and locked the door. The only object hebeheld--for he had eyes for nothing else--was Amabel, who, seeing him, uttered a faint scream. Clasping her in his arms, Wyvil forgot, in thedelirium of the moment, the jeopardy in which he was placed. 

"Do you know what has happened?" cried Amabel, extricating herself fromhis embrace. 

"I know all, " replied her lover; "I would risk a thousand deaths foryour sake. You must fly with me. "

"Fly!" exclaimed Amabel; "at such a time as this?--my brother dying--thewhole house, perhaps, infected! How can you ask me to fly? Why have youcome hither? You will destroy me. "

"Not so, sweet Amabel, " replied Wyvil, ardently. "I would bear you fromthe reach of this horrible disease. I am come to save you, and will notstir without you. "

"What shall I do?" cried Amabel, distractedly. "But I am rightlypunished for my disobedience and ingratitude to my dear father. Oh!Wyvil, I did not deserve this from you. "

"Hear me, Amabel, " cried her lover; "I implore your forgiveness. What Ihave done has been from irresistible passion, and from no other cause. You promised to meet me to-night. Nay, you half consented to fly withme. I have prepared all for it. I came hither burning with impatiencefor the meeting. I received no signal, but encountering your father'sapprentice, was informed that you were attacked by the plague. Imaginemy horror and distress at the intelligence. I thought it would havekilled me. I determined, however, at all risks, to see you once more--toclasp you in my arms before you died--to die with you, if need be. Iaccomplished my purpose. I entered the house unobserved. I overheard theservants say it was your brother who was ill, not you. I also learntthat you were in your mother's room. I found the door, and by afortunate device, obtained admittance. Now you know all, and will younot fly with me?"

"How _can_ I fly?" cried Amabel, gazing wildly round the room, as if insearch of some place of refuge or escape, and, noticing her littlesister, Christiana, who was lying asleep in the bed--"Oh! how I envythat innocent!" she murmured. 

"Think of nothing but yourself, " rejoined Wyvil, seizing her hand. "Ifyou stay here, it will be to perish of the plague. Trust to me, and Iwill secure your flight. "

"I cannot--I dare not, " cried Amabel, resisting him with all her force. 

"You _must_ come, " cried Wyvil, dragging her along. 

As he spoke, Mrs. Bloundel, who had been down to Blaize's room toascertain what was the matter, returned. Trying the door, and finding itfastened, she became greatly alarmed, and called to Amabel to open itdirectly. 

"It is my mother, " cried Amabel. "Pity me, Heaven! I shall die withshame. "

"Heed her not, " replied Wyvil, in a deep whisper; "in her surprise andconfusion at seeing me, she will not be able to stop us. Do nothesitate. There is not a moment to lose. "

"What is the matter, child?" cried Mrs. Bloundel. "Why have you fastenedthe door? Is there any one in the room with you?"

"She hears us, " whispered Amabel. "What shall I do? You must not beseen?"

"There is no use in further concealment, " cried Wyvil. "You are mine, and twenty mothers should not bar the way. "

"Hold!" cried Amabel, disengaging herself by a sudden effort. "I havegone too far--but not so far as you imagine. I am not utterly lost. "

And before she could be prevented, she rushed to the door, threw itopen, and flung herself into her mother's arms, who uttered anexclamation of terror at beholding Wyvil. The latter, though filled withrage and confusion, preserved an unmoved exterior, and folded his armsupon his breast. 

"And so it was you who knocked at the door!" cried Mrs. Bloundel, regarding the gallant with a look of fury--"it was you who contrived todelude me into opening it! I do not ask why you have come hither like athief in the night, because I require no information on the subject. Youare come to dishonour my child--to carry her away from those who loveher and cherish her, and would preserve her from such mischievousserpents as you. But, Heaven be praised! I have caught you before yourwicked design could Be effected. Oh! Amabel, my child, my child!" sheadded, straining her to her bosom, "I had rather--far rather--see youstricken with the plague, like your poor brother, though I felt therewas not a hope of your recovery, than you should fall into the hands ofthis Satan!"

"I have been greatly to blame, dear mother, " returned Amabel, burstinginto tears; "and I shall neither seek to exculpate myself, nor concealwhat I have done. I have deceived you and my father. I have secretlyencouraged the addresses of this gentleman. Nay, if the plague had notbroken out in our house to-night, I should have flown from it with him. "

"You shock me, greatly, child, " returned Mrs. Bloundel; "but you relieveme at the same time. Make a clean breast, and hide nothing from me. "

"I have nothing more to tell, dear mother, " replied Amabel, "except thatMaurice Wyvil has been in the room ever since you left it, and might, perhaps, have carried me off in spite of my resistance, if you had notreturned when you did. "

"It was, indeed, a providential interference, " rejoined Mrs. Bloundel. "From what a snare of the evil one--from what a pitfall have you beenpreserved!"

"I feel I have had a narrow escape, dear mother, " replied Amabel. "Pardon me. I do not deserve your forgiveness. But I will never offendyou more. "

"I forgive you from my heart, child, and will trust you, " returned Mrs. Bloundel, in a voice broken by emotion. 

"That is more than I would, " thought Maurice Wyvil. "A woman who hasonce deceived those she holds dear, will not fail to do so a secondtime. The fairest promises are forgotten when the danger is past. "

"Mr. Wyvil, if you have a particle of regard for me, you will instantlyleave the house, " said Amabel, turning to him. 

"If had my own way, he should leave it through the window, " said Mrs. Bloundel; "and if he tarries a minute longer, I will give the alarm. "

"You hear this, sir, " cried Amabel:--"go, I entreat you. "

"I yield to circumstance, Amabel, " replied Wyvil; "but think not Iresign you. Come what will, and however I may be foiled, I will notdesist till I make you mine. "

"I tremble to hear him, " cried Mrs. Bloundel, "and could not havebelieved such depravity existed. Quit the house, sir, directly, or Iwill have you turned out of it. "

"Do not remain another moment, " implored Amabel. "Do not, do not!"

"Since I have no other way of proving my love, I must perforce obey, "returned Wyvil, trying to snatch her hand and press it to his lips; butshe withdrew it, and clung more closely to her mother. "We part, " headded, significantly, "only for a time. "

Quitting the room, he was about to descend the stairs, when Mrs. Bloundel, who had followed to see him safely off the premises, hearing anoise below, occasioned by the return of Leonard with the doctor, cautioned him to wait. A further delay was caused by Blaize, who, stationing himself at the foot of the stairs, with a light in his hand, appeared unwilling to move. Apprehensive of a discovery, Mrs. Bloundelthen directed the gallant to the back staircase, and he had got abouthalfway down, when he was surprised by Leonard Holt, as before related. 

At the very moment that Wyvil was overtaken on the landing by theapprentice, Amabel appeared at the door of her chamber with a light. Thedifferent emotions of each party at this unexpected rencontre may beimagined. Leonard Holt, with a breast boiling with jealous rage, prepared to attack his rival. He had no weapon about him, having lefthis cudgel in the shop, but he doubled his fists, and, nerved bypassion, felt he had the force of a Hercules in his arm. Wyvil, in histurn, kept his hand upon his sword, and glanced at his mistress, as ifseeking instructions how to act. At length, Mrs. Bloundel, who formedone of the group, spoke. 

"Leonard Holt, " she said, "show this person out at the door. Do not losesight of him for an instant; and, as soon as he is gone, try to find outhow he entered the house. "

"He entered it like a robber, " returned Leonard, looking fiercely at thegallant, "and if I did my strict duty, I should seize him and give himin charge to the watch. He has come here for the purpose of stealing mymaster's chief valuable--his daughter. "

"I am aware of it, " replied Mrs. Bloundel, "and nothing butconsideration for my husband prevents my delivering him up to justice. As it is, he may go free. But should he return--"

"If I catch him here again, " interrupted Leonard, "I will shoot him as Iwould a dog, though I should be hanged for the deed. Have you consideredwell what you are doing, madam? I would not presume beyond my station, but there are seasons when an inferior may give wholesome advice. Areyou certain you are acting as your worthy husband would, in allowingthis person to depart? If you have any doubt, speak. Fear nothing. Unarmed as I am, I am a match for him, and will detain him. "

"Do not heed what Leonard says, dear mother, " interposed Amabel. "For mysake, let Mr. Wyvil go. "

"I _have_ considered the matter, Leonard, " returned Mrs. Bloundel, "andtrust I am acting rightly. At all events, I am sure I am sparing myhusband pain. "

"It is mistaken tenderness, " rejoined Leonard, "and Heaven grant you maynot have cause to repent it. If I had your permission, I would so dealwith this audacious intruder, that he should never venture to repeat hisvisit. "

"You know that you speak safely, fellow, " rejoined Wyvil, "and you, therefore, give full license to your scurrile tongue. But a time willcome when I will chastise your insolence. "

"No more of this, " cried Mrs. Bloundel. "Do as I bid you, Leonard; and, as you value my regard, say nothing of what has occurred to yourmaster. "

Sullenly acquiescing, the apprentice preceded Wyvil to the shop, andopened the door. 

As the other passed through it, he said, "You spoke of chastising mejust now. If you have courage enough--which I doubt--to make good yourwords, and will wait for me for five minutes, near Saint Alban's Churchin this street, you shall have the opportunity. "

Wyvil did not deign a reply, but wrapping his cloak around him, strodeaway. He had not proceeded far, when it occurred to him that, possibly, notwithstanding his interdiction, some of his companions might bewaiting for him, and hurrying down the passage leading to the yard, hefound Lydyard, to whom he recounted his ill-success. 

"I shall not, however, abandon my design, " he said. "These failures areonly incentives to further exertion. "

"In the meantime, you must pay your wager to Sedley, " laughed Lydyard, "and as the house is really infected with the plague, it behoves you tocall at the first apothecary's shop we find open, and get your apparelfumigated. You must not neglect due precautions. "

"True, " replied Wyvil, "and as I feel too restless to go home atpresent, suppose we amuse ourselves by calling on some astrologer, tosee whether the stars are favourable to my pursuit of this girl. "

"A good idea, " replied Lydyard. "There are plenty of the 'Sons ofUrania, ' as they term themselves, hereabouts. 

"A mere juggler will not serve my turn, " returned Wyvil. 

"William Lilly, the almanack-maker, who predicted the plague, and, ifold Rowley is to be believed, has great skill in the occult sciences, lives somewhere in Friday-street, not a stone's throw from this place. Let us go and find him out. "

"Agreed, " replied Lydyard. 

V. 

THE POMANDER-BOX. 

Any doubts entertained by Leonard Holt as to the manner in which hisrival entered the house, were removed by discovering the open window inthe passage and the rope-ladder hanging to the yard-wall. Taking theladder away, and making all as secure as he could, he next seized hiscudgel, and proceeded to Blaize's room, with the intention of inflictingupon him the punishment he had threatened: for he naturally enoughattributed to the porter's carelessness all the mischief that had justoccurred. Not meeting with him, however, and concluding he was in thekitchen, he descended thither, and found him in such a pitiable plight, that his wrath was instantly changed to compassion. 

Stretched upon the hearth before a blazing sea-coal fire, which seemedlarge enough to roast him, with his head resting upon the lap ofPatience, the pretty kitchen-maid, and his left hand upon his heart, theporter loudly complained of a fixed and burning pain in that region;while his mother, who was kneeling beside him, having just poured abasin of scalding posset-drink down his throat, entreated him to let herexamine his side to see whether he had any pestilential mark upon it, but he vehemently resisted her efforts. 

"Do you feel any swelling, myn lief zoon?" asked old Josyna, trying toremove his hand. 

"Swelling!" ejaculated Blaize, --"there's a tumour as big as an egg. "

"Is id possible?" exclaimed Josyna, in great alarm. "Do let me look adid. "

"No, no, leave me alone, " rejoined Blaize. "Don't disturb me further. You will catch the distemper if you touch the sore. "

"Dat wond hinder me from drying to zaave you, " replied his mother, affectionately. "I must see vad is de madder vid you, or I cannod cureyou. "

"I am past your doctoring, mother, " groaned Blaize. "Leave me alone, Isay. You hurt me shockingly!"

"Poor child!" cried Josyna, soothingly, "I'll be as dender as possible. I'll nod give you de leasd pain--nod de leasd bid. "

"But I tell you, you _do_ give me a great deal, " rejoined Blaize. "Ican't bear it. Your fingers are like iron nails. Keep them away. "

"Bless us! did I ever hear de like of dad!" exclaimed Josyna. "Ironnails! if you think so, myn arm zoon, you musd be very ill indeed. "

"I _am_ very ill, " groaned her son. "I am not long for this world. "

"Oh! don't say so, dear Blaize, " sobbed Patience, letting fall aplentiful shower of tears on his face. "Don't say so. I can't bear topart with you. "

"Then don't survive me, " returned Blaize. "But there's little chance ofyour doing so. You are certain to take the plague. "

"I care not what becomes of myself, if I lose you, Blaize, " respondedPatience, bedewing his countenance with another shower; "but I hope youwon't die yet. "

"Ah! it's all over with me--all over, " rejoined Blaize. "I told LeonardHolt how it would be. I said I should be the next victim. And my wordsare come true. "

"You are as clever as a conjurer, " sobbed Patience; "but I wish youhadn't been right in this instance. However, comfort yourself. I'll diewith you. We'll be carried to the grave in the same plague-cart. "

"That's cold comfort, " returned Blaize, angrily. "I beg you'll nevermention the plague-cart again. The thought of it makes me shiver allover--oh!" And he uttered a dismal and prolonged groan. 

At this juncture, Leonard thought it time to interfere. 

"If you are really attacked by the plague, Blaize, " he said, advancing, "you must have instant advice. Doctor Hodges is still upstairs with ourmaster. He must see you. "

"On no account, " returned the porter, in the greatest alarm, andspringing to his feet. "I am better--much better. I don't think I am illat all. "

"For the first time, I suspect the contrary, " replied the apprentice, "since you are afraid of owning it. But this is not a matter to betrifled with. Doctor Hodges will soon settle the point. " And he hurriedout of the room to summon the physician. 

"Oh! mother!--dear Patience!" roared Blaize, capering about in anecstasy of terror; "don't let the doctor come near me. Keep me out ofhis sight. You don't know what horrid things are done to those afflictedwith my complaint. But I do, --for I have informed myself on the subject. Their skins are scarified, and their sores blistered, lanced, cauterized, and sometimes burned away with a knob of red-hot iron, called 'the button. '"

"But iv id is necessary, myn goed Blaize, you musd submid, " replied hismother. "Never mind de hod iron or de lance, or de blisder, iv dey makeyou well. Never mind de pain. It will soon be over. "

"Soon over!" bellowed Blaize, sinking into a chair. "Yes, I feel itwill. But not in the way you imagine. This Doctor Hodges will kill me. He is fond of trying experiments, and will make me his subject. Don'tlet him--for pity's sake, don't. "

"But I musd, myn lief jonger, " replied his mother, "I musd. "

"Oh, Patience!" supplicated Blaize, "you were always fond of me. Mymother has lost her natural affection. She wishes to get rid of me. Don't take part with her. My sole dependence is upon you. "

"I will do all I can for you, dear Blaize, " blubbered the kitchen-maid. "But it is absolutely necessary you should see the doctor. "

"Then I won't stay here another minute, " vociferated Blaize. "I'll diein the street rather than under his hands. "

And bursting from them, he would have made good his retreat, but for theentrance of Leonard and Hodges. 

At the sight of the latter, Blaize ran back and endeavoured to screenhimself behind Patience. 

"Is this the sick man?" remarked Hodges, scarcely able to refrain fromlaughing. "I don't think he can be in such imminent danger as you led meto suppose. "

"No, I am better--much better, thank you, " returned Blaize, stillkeeping Patience between him and the doctor. "The very sight of you hasfrightened away the plague. "

"Indeed!" exclaimed Hodges, smiling, "then it is the most marvellouscure I ever yet effected. But, come forward, young man, and let us seewhat is the matter with you. "

"You neither lance nor cauterize an incipient tumour, do you, doctor?"demanded Blaize, without abandoning his position. 

"Eh, day!" exclaimed Hodges, "have we one of the faculty here? I see howit is, friend. You have been reading some silly book about the disease, and have frightened yourself into the belief that you have some of itssymptoms. I hope you haven't been doctoring yourself, likewise. Whathave you taken?"

"It would be difficult to say what he has _not_ taken, " remarkedLeonard. "His stomach must be like an apothecary's shop. "

"I have only used proper precautions, " rejoined Blaize, testily. 

"And what may those be--eh?" inquired the doctor. "I am curious tolearn. "

"Come from behind Patience, " cried Leonard, "and don't act the foollonger, or I will see whether your disorder will not yield to a soundapplication of the cudgel. "

"Don't rate him thus, good Master Leonard, " interposed Patience. "He isvery ill--he is, indeed. "

"Then let him have a chance of getting better, " returned the apprentice. "If he _is_ ill, he has no business near you. Come from behind her, Blaize, I say. Now speak, " he added, as the porter crept tremblinglyforth, "and let us hear what nostrums you have swallowed. I know youhave dosed yourself with pills, electuaries, balsams, tinctures, conserves, spirits, elixirs, decoctions, and every other remedy, real orimaginary. What else have you done?"

"What Dr. Hodges, I am sure, will approve, " replied Blaize, confidently. "I have rubbed myself with vinegar, oil of sulphur, extract of tar, andspirit of turpentine. "

"What next?" demanded Hodges. 

"I placed saltpetre, brimstone, amber, and juniper upon a chafing-dishto fumigate my room, " replied Blaize; "but the vapour was sooverpowering, I could not bear it. "

"I should be surprised if you could, " replied the doctor. "Indeed, it isastonishing to me, if you have taken half the remedies Leonard says youhave, and which, taken in this way, are no remedies at all, since theycounteract each other--that you are still alive. But let us see what isthe matter with you. What ails you particularly?"

"Nothing, " replied Blaize, trembling; "I am quite well. "

"He complains of a fixed pain near de haard, docdor, " interposed hismother, "and says he has a large dumour on his side. But he wond let meexamine id. "

"That's a bad sign, " observed Hodges, shaking his head. "I am afraidit's not all fancy, as I at first supposed. Have you felt sick of late, young man?"

"Not of late, " replied Blaize, becoming as white as ashes; "but I donow. "

"Another bad symptom, " rejoined the doctor. "Take off your doublet andopen your shirt. "

"Do as the doctor bids you, " said Leonard, seeing that Blaize hesitated, "or I apply the cudgel. "

"Ah! bless my life! what's this?" cried Hodges, running his hand downthe left side of the porter, and meeting with a large lump. "Can it be acarbuncle?"

"Yes, it's a terrible carbuncle, " replied Blaize; "but don't cauterizeit, doctor. "

"Let me look at it, " cried Hodges, "and I shall then know how toproceed. "

And as he spoke, he tore open the porter's shirt, and a silver ball, about as large as a pigeon's egg, fell to the ground. Leonard picked itup, and found it so hot that he could scarcely hold it. 

"Here is the terrible carbuncle, " he cried, with a laugh, in which allthe party, except Blaize, joined. 

"It's my pomander-box, " said the latter. "I filled it with a mixture ofcitron-peel, angelica seed, zedoary, yellow saunders, aloes, benzoin, camphor, and gum-tragacanth, moistened with spirit of roses; and afterplacing it on the chafing-dish to heat it, hung it by a string round myneck, next my dried toad. I suppose, by some means or other, it droppedthrough my doublet, and found its way to my side. I felt a dreadfulburning there, and that made me fancy I was attacked by the plague. "

"A very satisfactory solution of the mystery, " replied the doctor, laughing; "and you may think yourself well off with the blister whichyour box has raised. It will be easier to bear than the cataplasm Ishould have given you, had your apprehensions been well founded. As yet, you are free from infection, young man; but if you persist in this sillyand pernicious practice of quacking yourself, you will infallibly bringon some fatal disorder--perhaps the plague itself. If your mother hasany regard for you she will put all your medicines out of your reach. There are few known remedies against this frightful disease; and whatfew there are, must be adopted cautiously. My own specific is sack. "

"Sack!" exclaimed Blaize, in astonishment. "Henceforth, I will drinknothing else. I like the remedy amazingly. "

"It must be taken in moderation, " said the doctor: "otherwise it is asdangerous as too much physic. "

"I have a boddle or doo of de liquor you commend, docdor, in my privatecupboard, " observed Josyna. "Will you dasde id?"

"With great pleasure, " replied Hodges, "and a drop of it will do yourson no harm. "

The wine was accordingly produced, and the doctor pronounced itexcellent, desiring that a glass might always be brought him when hevisited the grocer's house. 

"You may rely upon id, mynheer, as long as my small sdore lasds, "replied Josyna. 

Blaize, who, in obedience to the doctor's commands, had drained a largeglass of sack, felt so much inspirited by it, that he ventured, when hismother's back was turned, to steal a kiss from Patience, and to whisperin her ear, that if he escaped the plague, he would certainly marryher--an assurance that seemed to give her no slight satisfaction. Hisnew-born courage, however, was in some degree damped by Leonard, whoobserved to him in an undertone:

"You have neglected my injunctions, sirrah, and allowed the person Iwarned you of to enter the house. When a fitting season arrives, I willnot fail to pay off old scores. "

Blaize would have remonstrated, and asked for some explanation, but theapprentice instantly left him, and set out upon his errand to theExaminer of Health. Accompanied by his mother, who would not even allowhim to say good-night to Patience, the porter then proceeded to his ownroom, where the old woman, to his infinite regret, carried off hisstores of medicine in a basket, which she brought with her for thatpurpose, and locked the door upon him. 

"This has escaped her, " said Blaize, as soon as she was gone, opening asecret drawer in the cupboard. "How fortunate that I kept this reserve. I have still a tolerable supply in case of need. Let me examine mystock. First of all, there are plague-lozenges, composed of angelica, liquorice, flower of sulphur, myrrh, and oil of cinnamon. Secondly, anelectuary of bole-armoniac, hartshorn-shavings, saffron, and syrup ofwood-sorrel. I long to taste it. But then it would be running in thedoctor's teeth. Thirdly, there is a phial labelled _Aqua TheriacalisStillatitia_--in plain English, distilled treacle-water. A spoonful ofthis couldn't hurt me. Fourthly, a packet of powders, entitled _ManusChristi_--an excellent mixture. Fifthly, a small pot of diatesseron, composed of gentian, myrrh, bayberries, and round aristolochia. I mustjust taste it. Never mind the doctor! He does not know what agrees withmy constitution as well as I do myself. Physic comes as naturally to meas mother's milk. Sixthly, there is _Aqua Epidemica_, commonly calledthe Plague-Water of Matthias--delicious stuff! I will only just sip it. What a fine bitter it has! I'm sure it must be very wholesome. Next, forI've lost my count, comes salt of vipers--next, powder of unicorn'shorn--next, oil of scorpions from Naples--next, dragon-water--alladmirable. Then there are cloves of garlics--sovereign fortifiers of thestomach--and, lastly, there is a large box of my favourite rufuses. Howmany pills have I taken? Only half a dozen! Three more may as well go tokeep the others company. "

And hastily swallowing them, as if afraid of detection, he carefullyshut the drawer, and then crept into bed, and, covering himself withblankets, endeavoured to compose himself to slumber. 

Doctor Hodges, meantime, returned to the grocer, and acquainted him thatit was a false alarm, and that the porter was entirely free frominfection. 

"I am glad to hear it, " replied Bloundel; "but I expected as much. Blaize is like the shepherd's boy in the fable: he has cried 'wolf' sooften, that when the danger really arrives, no one will heed him. "

"I must now take my leave, Mr. Bloundel, " said Hodges. "I will be withyou the first thing to-morrow, and have little doubt I shall find yourson going on well. But you must not merely take care of him, but ofyourself, and your household. It will be well to set a chafing-dish inthe middle of the room, and scatter some of these perfumes occasionallyupon it!" and producing several small packets, he gave them to thegrocer. "If you ever smoke a pipe, I would advise you to do so now. "

"I never smoke, " replied Bloundel, "and hold it as a filthy andmischievous habit, which nothing but necessity should induce me topractise. "

"It is advisable now, " returned Hodges, "and you should neglect noprecaution. Take my word for it, Mr. Bloundel, the plague is onlybeginning. When the heats of summer arrive, its ravages will befrightful. Heaven only knows what will become of us all!"

"If my poor son is spared, and we escape contagion, " returned Bloundel, "I will put into execution a scheme which has occurred to me, and which(under Providence!) will, I trust, secure my family from furtherhazard. "

"Ah, indeed! what is that?" inquired Hodges. 

"We must talk of it some other time, " returned Bloundel "Good-night, doctor, and accept my thanks for your attention. To-morrow, at as earlyan hour as you can make convenient, I shall hope to see you. " And with afriendly shake of the hand, and a reiteration of advice and good wishes, Hodges departed. 

Soon after this the apprentice returned, and by his master's directions, placed a chafing-dish in the middle of the room, supplying it with thedrugs and herbs left by the doctor. About four o'clock, a loud knockingwas heard. Instantly answering the summons, Leonard found four men atthe shop-door, two of whom he knew, by red wands they carried, weresearchers; while their companions appeared to be undertakers, from theirsable habits and long black cloaks. 

Marching unceremoniously into the shop, the searchers desired to see thesick man; and the apprentice then perceived that one of the men in blackcloaks was the coffin-maker, Chowles. He could not, however, refuse himadmittance, and led the way to the grocer's chamber. As they entered it, Bloundel arose, and placing his finger to his lips in token of silence, raised the blankets, and exhibited the blotch, which had greatlyincreased in size, under the arm of his slumbering son. The foremost ofthe searchers, who kept a phial of vinegar to his nose all the time heremained in the room, then demanded in a low tone whether there were anyother of the household infected? The grocer replied in the negative. Upon this, Chowles, whose manner showed he was more than halfintoxicated, took off his hat, and bowing obsequiously to the grocer, said, "Shall I prepare you a coffin, Mr. Bloundel?--you are sure to wantone, and had better give the order in time, for there is a great demandfor such articles just now. If you like, I will call with it tomorrownight. I have a plague-cart of my own, and bury all my customers. "

"God grant I may not require your services, sir!" replied the grocer, shuddering. "But I will give you timely notice. "

"If you are in want of a nurse, I can recommend an experienced one, "added Chowles. "Her last employer is just dead. "

"I may need assistance, " replied the grocer, after a moment'sreflection. "Let her call to-morrow. "

"She understands her business perfectly, and will save you a world oftrouble, " replied Chowles; "besides securing me the sale of anothercoffin, " he added to himself. 

He then quitted the room with the searchers, and Leonard feltinexpressibly relieved by their departure. 

As soon as the party gained the street, the fourth person, who wasprovided with materials for the task, painted a red cross of theprescribed size--namely, a foot in length--in the middle of the door;tracing above it, in large characters, the melancholy formula--"LORD, HAVE MERCY UPON US!"

VI. 

THE LIBERTINE PUNISHED. 

Sir Paul Parravicin and Major Pillichody arrived without any particularadventure at the top of the Haymarket, where the former dismissed thecoach he had hired in Cheapside, and they proceeded towards Piccadillyon foot. Up to this time the major had been in very high spirits, boasting what he would do, in case they encountered Disbrowe, andoffering to keep guard outside the door while the knight remained in thehouse. But he now began to alter his tone, and to frame excuses to getaway. He had noticed with some uneasiness, that another coach stoppedlower down the Haymarket, at precisely the same time as their own; andthough he could not be quite certain of the fact, he fancied heperceived a person greatly resembling Captain Disbrowe alight from it. Mentioning the circumstance to his companion, he pointed out a tallfigure following them at some distance; but the other only laughed athim, and said, "It may possibly be Disbrowe--but what if it is? Hecannot get into the house without the key; and if he is inclined tomeasure swords with me a second time, he shall not escape so lightly ashe did the first. "

"Right, Sir Paul, right, " returned Pillichody, "exterminate him--sparehim not. By Bellerophon! that's my way. My only apprehension is lest heshould set upon us unawares. The bravest are not proof against thedagger of an assassin. "

"There you wrong Disbrowe, major, I am persuaded, " returned Parravicin. "He is too much a man of honour to stab a foe behind his back. "

"It may be, " replied Pillichody, "but jealousy will sometimes turn aman's brain. By the snakes of Tisiphone! I have known an instance of itmyself. I once made love to a tailor's wife, and the rascal coming inunawares, struck me to the ground with his goose, and well nigh murderedme. "

"After such a mischance, I am surprised you should venture to carry onso many hazardous intrigues, " laughed the knight. "But you proposed justnow to keep watch outside the house. If it is Disbrowe who is followingus, you had better do so. "

"Why, Sir Paul--you see, "--stammered the major, "I have just bethoughtme of an engagement. "

"An engagement at this hour--impossible!" cried Parravicin. 

"An assignation, I ought to say, " returned Pillichody. 

"Couches of Cytheraea!--an affair like your own. You would not have mekeep a lady waiting. "

"It is strange you should not recollect it till this moment, " repliedParravicin. "But be your inamorata whom she may--even the rich widow ofWatling-street, of whom you prate so much--you must put her offto-night. "

"But, Sir Paul----"

"I will have no denial, " replied the knight, peremptorily. If yourefuse, you will find me worse to deal with than Disbrowe. You mustremain at the door till I come out. And now let us lose no more time. Iam impatient to behold the lady. "

"Into what a cursed scrape have I got myself!" thought the major, as hewalked by the side of his companion, ever and anon casting wistfulglances over his shoulder. "I am fairly caught on the horns of adilemma. I instinctively feel that Disbrowe _is_ dogging us. What willbecome of me? The moment this harebrained coxcomb enters the house, Iwill see whether a light pair of heels cannot bear me out of harm'sway. "

By this time, they had reached a passage known as Bear-alley (all tracesof which have been swept away by modern improvements), and threading it, they entered a narrow thoroughfare, called Castle-street. Just as theyturned the corner, Pillichody again noticed the figure at the furtherend of the alley, and, but for his fears of the knight, would haveinstantly scampered off. 

"Are we far from the house?" inquired Parravicin. 

"No, " replied the major, scarcely able to conceal his trepidation. "Itis close at hand--and so is the lady's husband. "

"So much the better, " replied the knight; "it will afford you someamusement to beat him off. You may affect not to know him, and may tellhim the lady's husband is just come home--her _husband_!--do you take, Pillichody?"

"I do--ha! ha! I do, " replied the major, in a quavering tone. 

"But you don't appear to relish the jest, " rejoined Parravicin, sneeringly. 

"Oh, yes, I relish it exceedingly, " replied Pillichody; "herhusband--ha!--ha!--and Disbrowe is the disappointed lover--capital! Buthere we are--and I wish we were anywhere else, " he added to himself. 

"Are you sure you are right?" asked Parravicin, searching for the key. 

"Quite sure, " returned Pillichody. "Don't you see some one behind thatwall?"

"I see nothing, " rejoined the knight. "You are afraid of shadows, major. "

"Afraid!" ejaculated Pillichody. "Thousand thunders! I am afraid ofnothing. "

"In that case, I shall expect to find you have slain Disbrowe, on myreturn, " rejoined Parravicin, unlocking the door. 

"The night is chilly, " observed the major, "and ever since my campaignsin the Low Countries, I have been troubled with rheumatism. I shouldprefer keeping guard inside. "

"No, no, you must remain where you are, " replied the knight, shuttingthe door. 

Pillichody was about to take to his heels, when he felt himself arrestedby a powerful arm. He would have roared for aid, but a voice, which heinstantly recognised, commanded him to keep silence, if he valued hislife. 

"Is your companion in the house?" demanded Disbrowe, in a hollow tone. 

"I am sorry to say he is, Captain Disbrowe, " replied the bully. "I didmy best to prevent him, but remonstrance was in vain. "

"Liar, " cried Disbrowe, striking him with his clenched hand. "Do youthink to impose upon me by such a pitiful fabrication? It was you whointroduced me to this heartless libertine--you who encouraged me to playwith him, telling me I should easily strip him of all he possessed--youwho excited his passion for my wife, by praising her beauty--and it wasyou who put it into his head to propose that fatal stake to me. "

"There you are wrong, Captain Disbrowe, " returned Pillichody, in asupplicatory tone. "On my soul, you are! I certainly praised your wife(as who would not?), but I never advised Parravicin to play for her. That was his own idea entirely. "

"The excuse shall not avail you, " cried Disbrowe, fiercely. "To you Iowe all my misery. Draw and defend yourself. "

"Be not so hasty, captain, " cried Pillichody, abjectedly. "I haveinjured you sufficiently already. I would not have your blood on myhead. On the honour of a soldier, I am sorry for the wrong I have doneyou, and will strive to repair it. "

"Repair it!" shrieked Disbrowe. "It is too late. " And seizing themajor's arm, he dragged him by main force into the alley. 

"Help! help!" roared Pillichody. "Would you murder me?"

"I will assuredly cut your throat, if you keep up this clamour, "rejoined Disbrowe, snatching the other's long rapier from his side. "Coward!" he added, striking him with the flat side of the weapon, "thiswill teach you to mix yourself up in such infamous affairs for thefuture. "

And heedless of the major's entreaties and vociferations, he continuedto belabour him, until compelled by fatigue to desist; when the other, contriving to extricate himself, ran off as fast as his legs could carryhim. Disbrowe looked after him for a moment, as if uncertain whether tofollow, and then hurrying to the house, stationed himself beneath theporch. 

"I will stab him as he comes forth, " he muttered, drawing his sword, andhiding it beneath his mantle. 

Parravicin, meanwhile, having let himself into the house, marched boldlyforward, though the passage was buried in darkness, and he was utterlyunacquainted with it. Feeling against the wall, he presently discovereda door, and opening it, entered a room lighted by a small silver lampplaced on a marble slab. The room was empty, but its furniture andarrangements proclaimed it the favourite retreat of the fair mistress ofthe abode. Parravicin gazed curiously round, as if anxious to gatherfrom what he saw some idea of the person he so soon expected toencounter. Everything betokened a refined and luxurious taste. A fewFrench romances, the last plays of Etherege, Dryden, and Shadwell, avolume of Cowley, and some amorous songs, lay on the table; and not farfrom them were a loomask, pulvil purse, a pair of scented gloves, arichly-laced mouchoir, a manteau girdle, palatine tags, and a goldenbodkin for the hair. 

Examining all these things, and drawing his own conclusions as to thecharacter of their owner, Parravicin turned to a couch on which acittern was thrown, while beside it, on a cushion, were a pair of tinyembroidered velvet slippers. A pocket-mirror, or sprunking-glass, as itwas then termed, lay on a side-table, and near it stood an embossedsilver chocolate-pot, and a small porcelain cup with a golden spooninside it, showing what the lady's last repast had been. On anothersmall table, covered with an exquisitely white napkin, stood a flask ofwine, a tall-stemmed glass, and a few cakes on a China dish, evidentlyplaced there for Disbrowe's return. 

As Parravicin drew near this table, a slip of paper, on which a fewlines were traced, attracted his attention, and taking it up, he read asfollows:

"It is now midnight, and you promised to return early. I have felt yourabsence severely, and have been suffering from a violent headache, whichhas almost distracted me. I have also been troubled with strange andunaccountable misgivings respecting you. I am a little easier now, butstill far from well, and about to retire to rest. At what hour will thismeet your eye?"

"MARGARET. "

"Charming creature!" exclaimed Parravicin, as the paper dropped from hishand; "she little dreamed, when she wrote it, who would read her billet. Disbrowe does not deserve such a treasure. I am sorry she is unwell. Ihope she has not taken the plague. Pshaw, what could put such an ideainto my head? Lydyard's warning, I suppose. That fellow, who is theveriest rake among us, is always preaching. Confound him! I wish he hadnot mentioned it. A glass of wine may exhilarate me. " And pouring out abumper, he swallowed it at a draught. "And so the fond fool is piningfor her husband, and has some misgivings about him. Egad! it is well forher she does not know what has really taken place. She'll learn thatsoon enough. What's this?" he added, glancing at a picture on the wall. "Her miniature! It must be; for it answers exactly to Pillichody'sdescription. A sparkling brunette, with raven hair, and eyes of night. Iam on fire to behold her: but I must proceed with prudence, or I mayruin all. Is there nothing of Disbrowe's that I could put on for thenonce? 'Fore Heaven! the very thing I want!"

The exclamation was occasioned by his observing a loose silken robelying across a chair. Wrapping it round him, and throwing down his hat, he took the lamp and went up stairs. 

Daring as he was, Parravicin felt his courage desert him, as havingfound the door of Mrs. Disbrowe's chamber, he cautiously opened it. Asingle glance showed him that the room was more exquisitely, moreluxuriously furnished than that he had just quitted. Articles offeminine attire, of the richest kind, were hung against the walls, ordisposed on the chairs. On one side stood the toilette-table, with itssmall mirror then in vogue, and all its equipage of silver flasks, filligree cassets, japan patch-boxes, scent-bottles, and pomatum-pots. 

As he entered the room, a faint voice issuing from behind the richdamask curtains of the bed, demanded, "Is it you, Disbrowe?"

"It is, Margaret, " replied Parravicin, setting down the lamp, andspeaking with a handkerchief at his mouth, to disguise his voice andconceal his features. 

"You are late--very late, " she rejoined, "and I have been ill. I fanciedmyself dying. "

"What has been the matter with you sweet, Meg?" asked Parravicin, approaching the bed, and seating himself behind the curtains. 

"I know not, " she replied. "I was seized with a dreadful headache aboutan hour ago. It has left me; but I have a strange oppression at mychest, and breathe with difficulty. "

"You alarm me, my love, " rejoined Parravicin. "Were you ever attackedthus before?"

"Never, " she replied. "Oh! Disbrowe! if you knew how I have longed foryour return, you would blame yourself for your absence. You have grownsadly neglectful of late. I suspect you love some one else. If I thoughtso------"

"What if you thought so, Margaret?" demanded Parravicin. 

"What!" cried Mrs. Disbrowe, raising herself in the bed. "I wouldrequite your perfidy--terribly requite it!"

"Then learn that Captain Disbrowe _is_ faithless, " cried Parravicin, throwing back the curtains, and disclosing himself. "Learn that he lovesanother, and is with her now. Learn that he cares so little for you, that he has surrendered you to me. "

"What do I hear?" exclaimed Mrs. Disbrowe. "Who are you, and what bringsyou here?"

"You may guess my errand from my presence, " replied the knight. "I amcalled Sir Paul Parravicin, and am the most devoted of your admirers. "

"My husband surrender me to a stranger! It cannot be!" cried the lady, distractedly. 

"You see me here, and may judge of the truth of my statement, " rejoinedthe knight. "Your husband gave me this key, with which I introducedmyself to the house. "

"What motive could he have for such unheard-of baseness--suchbarbarity?" cried Mrs. Disbrowe, bursting into tears. 

"Shall I tell you, madam?" replied Parravicin. "He is tired of you, andhas taken this means of ridding himself of you. "

Mrs. Disbrowe uttered a loud scream, and fell back in the bed. Parravicin waited for a moment; but not hearing her move, brought thelamp to see what was the matter. She had fainted, and was lying acrossthe pillow, with her night-dress partly open, so as to expose her neckand shoulders. 

The knight was at first ravished with her beauty; but his countenancesuddenly fell, and an expression of horror and alarm took possession ofit. He appeared rooted to the spot, and instead of attempting to renderher any assistance, remained with his gaze fixed upon her neck. 

Rousing himself at length, he rushed out of the room, hurried downstairs, and without pausing for a moment, threw open the street-door. Ashe issued from it, his throat was forcibly griped, and the point of asword was placed at his breast. 

"You are now in my power, villain, " cried Disbrowe, "and shall notescape my vengeance. "

"You are already avenged, " replied Parravicin, shaking off hisassailant. "Your wife has the plague. "

VII. 

THE PLAGUE NURSE. 

"And so my husband has got the plague, " muttered Mother Malmayns, as shehastened towards Saint Paul's, after the reproof she had received fromDoctor Hodges. "Well, it's a disorder that few recover from, and I don'tthink he stands a better chance than his fellows. I've been troubledwith him long enough. I've borne his ill-usage and savage temper fortwenty years, vainly hoping something would take him off; but though hetried his constitution hard, it was too tough to yield. However, he'slikely to go now. If I find him better than I expect, I can easily makeall sure. That's one good thing about the plague. You may get rid of apatient without any one being the wiser. A wrong mixture--a pillowremoved--a moment's chill during the fever--a glass of cold water--theslightest thing will do it. Matthew Malmayns, you will die of theplague, that's certain. But I must be careful how I proceed. That curseddoctor has his eye upon me. As luck would have it, I've got Sibbald'sointment in my pocket. That is sure to do its business--and safely. "

Thus ruminating, she shaped her course towards the southwest corner ofthe cathedral, and passing under the shrouds and cloisters of theConvocation House, raised the latch of a small wooden shed fixed in theangle of a buttress. Evidently well acquainted with the place, she wasnot long in finding a lantern and materials to light it, and insertingher fingers in a crevice of the masonry, from which the mortar had beenremoved, she drew forth a key. 

"It has not been stirred since I left it here a month ago, " shemuttered. "I must take care of this key, for if Matthew _should_ die, Imay not be able to enter the vaults of Saint Faith's without it; and asI know all their secret places and passages, which nobody else does, except my husband, I can make them a storehouse for the plunder I mayobtain during the pestilence. If it rages for a year, or only half thattime, and increases in violence (as God grant it may), I will fill everyhole in those walls with gold. "

With this, she took up the lantern, and crept along the side of thecathedral, until she came to a flight of stone steps. Descending them, she unlocked a small but strong door, cased with iron, and fastening itafter her, proceeded along a narrow stone passage, which brought her toanother door, opening upon the south aisle of Saint Faith's. 

Pausing for a moment to listen whether any one was within the sacredstructure--for such was the dead and awful silence of the place, thatthe slightest whisper or footfall, even at its farthest extremity, couldbe distinguished--she crossed to the other side, glancing fearfullyaround her as she threaded the ranks of pillars, whose heavy andembrowned shafts her lantern feebly illumined, and entering a recess, took a small stone out of the wall, and deposited the chief part of thecontents of her pocket behind it, after which she carefully replaced thestone. This done, she hurried to the charnel, and softly opened the doorof the crypt. 

Greatly relieved by the operation he had undergone, the sexton had sunkinto a slumber, and was, therefore, unconscious of the entrance of hiswife, who, setting down the lantern, advanced towards the pallet. Hismother and the young man were still in attendance, and the former, onseeing her daughter-in-law, exclaimed, in low but angry accents--"Whatbrings you here, Judith? I suppose you expected to find my son dead. Buthe will disappoint you. Doctor Hodges said he would recover--did he notKerrich?" she added, appealing to the young man, who noddedacquiescence. "He will recover, I tell you. "

"Well, well, " replied Judith, in the blandest tone she could assume; "Ihope he will. And if the doctor says so, I have no doubt of it. I onlyheard of his illness a few minutes ago, and came instantly to nursehim. "

"_You_ nurse him?" cried the old woman; "if you show him any affectionnow, it will be for the first time since your wedding-day. "

"How long has he been unwell?" demanded Judith, with difficultyrepressing her anger. 

"He was seized the night before last, " replied the old woman; "but hedidn't know what was the matter with him when it began. I saw him justbefore he went to rest, and he complained of a slight illness, butnothing to signify. He must have passed a frightful night, for thevergers found him in the morning running about Saint Faith's like amadman, and dashing his spades and mattocks against the walls andpillars. They secured him, and brought him here, and on examination, heproved to have the plague. "

"You surprise me by what you say, " replied Judith. "During the lastmonth, I have nursed more than a dozen patients, and never knew any ofthem so violent. I must look at his sore. "

"The doctor has just dressed it, " observed the old woman. 

"I don't mind that, " rejoined Judith, turning down the blanket, andexamining her husband's shoulder. "You are right, " she added, "he isdoing as well as possible. "

"I suppose I shan't be wanted any more, " observed Kerrich, "now you'recome back to nurse your husband, Mrs. Malmayns? I shall be glad to gethome to my own bed, for I don't feel well at all. "

"Don't alarm yourself, " replied Judith. "There's a bottle of plaguevinegar for you. Dip a piece of linen in it, and smell at it, and I'llinsure you against the pestilence. "

Kerrich took the phial, and departed. But the remedy was of littleavail. Before daybreak, he was seized with the distemper, and died twodays afterwards. 

"I hope poor Kerrich hasn't got the plague?" said the old woman, in atremulous tone. 

"I am afraid he has, " replied the daughter-in-law, "but I didn't like toalarm him. "

"Mercy on us!" cried the other, getting up. "What a dreadful scourge itis. "

"You would say so, if you had seen whole families swept off by it, as Ihave, " replied Judith. "But it mostly attacks old persons and children. "

"Lord help us!" cried the crone, "I hope it will spare me. I thought myage secured me. "

"Quite the reverse, " replied Judith, desirous of exciting hermother-in-law's terrors; "quite the reverse. You must take care ofyourself. "

"But you don't think I'm ill, do you?" asked the other, anxiously. 

"Sit down, and let me look at you, " returned Judith. 

And the old woman tremblingly obeyed. 

"Well, what do you think of me--what's the matter?" she asked, as herdaughter-in-law eyed her for some minutes in silence. "What's thematter, I say?"

But Judith remained silent. 

"I insist upon knowing, " continued the old woman. 

"Are you able to bear the truth?" returned her daughter-in-law. 

"You need say no more, " groaned the old woman. "I know what the truthmust be, and will try to bear it. I will get home as fast as I can, andput my few affairs in order, so that if I am carried off, I may not gounprepared. "

"You had better do so, " replied her daughter-in-law. 

"You will take care of my poor son, Judith, " rejoined the old woman, shedding a flood of tears. "I would stay with him, if I thought I coulddo him any good; but if I really am infected, I might only be in theway. Don't neglect him--as you hope for mercy hereafter, do not. "

"Make yourself easy, mother, " replied Judith. "I will take every care ofhim. "

"Have you no fears of the disorder yourself?" inquired the old woman. 

"None whatever, " replied Judith. "I am _a safe woman_. "

"I do not understand you, " replied her mother-in-law, in surprise. 

"I have had the plague, " replied Judith; "and those who have had itonce, never take it a second time. "

This opinion, entertained at the commencement of the pestilence, it maybe incidentally remarked, was afterwards found to be entirely erroneous;some persons being known to have the distemper three or four times. 

"You never let us know you were ill, " said the old woman. 

"I could not do so, " replied Judith, "and I don't know that I shouldhave done if I could. I was nursing two sisters at a small house inClerkenwell Close, and they both died in the night-time, within a fewhours of each other. The next day, as I was preparing to leave thehouse, I was seized myself, and had scarcely strength to creep up-stairsto bed. An old apothecary, named Sibbald, who had brought drugs to thehouse, attended me, and saved my life. In less than a week, I was wellagain, and able to move about, and should have returned home, but theapothecary told me, as I had had the distemper once, I might resume myoccupation with safety. I did so, and have found plenty of employment. "

"No doubt, " rejoined the old woman; "and you will find plentymore--plenty more. "

"I hope so, " replied the other. 

"Oh! do not give utterance to such a dreadful wish, Judith, " rejoinedher mother-in-law. "Do not let cupidity steel your heart to every betterfeeling. "

A slight derisive smile passed over the harsh features of theplague-nurse. 

"You heed me not, " pursued the old woman. "But a time will come when youwill recollect my words. "

"I am content to wait till then, " rejoined Judith. 

"Heaven grant you a better frame of mind!" exclaimed the old woman. "Imust take one last look of my son, for it is not likely I shall see himagain. "

"Not in this world, " thought Judith. 

"I conjure you, by all that is sacred, not to neglect him, " said the oldwoman. 

"I have already promised to do so, " replied Judith, impatiently. "Good-night, mother. "

"It will be a long good-night to me, I fear, " returned the dame. "DoctorHodges promised to send some blankets and medicine for poor Matthew. Thedoctor is a charitable man to the poor, and if he learns I am sick, hemay, perhaps, call and give me advice. "

"I am sure he will, " replied Judith. "Should the man bring the blankets, I will tell him to acquaint his master with your condition. And now takethis lantern, mother, and get home as fast as you can. "

So saying, she almost pushed her out of the vault, and closed the doorafter her. 

"At last I am rid of her, " she muttered. "She would have been a spy overme. I hope I have frightened her into the plague. But if she dies offear, it will answer my purpose as well. And now for my husband. "

Taking up the lamp, and shading it with her hand, she gazed at hisghastly countenance. 

"He slumbers tranquilly, " she muttered, after contemplating him for sometime, adding with a chuckling laugh, "it would be a pity to waken him. "

And seating herself on a stool near the pallet, she turned over in hermind in what way she could best execute her diabolical purpose. 

While she was thus occupied, the messenger from Doctor Hodges arrivedwith a bundle of blankets and several phials and pots of ointment. Theman offered to place the blankets on the pallet, but Judith would notlet him. 

"I can do it better myself, and without disturbing the poor sufferer, "she said. "Give my dutiful thanks to your master. Tell him my husband'smother, old widow Malmayns, fancies herself attacked by the plague, andif he will be kind enough to visit her, she lodges in the upper attic ofa baker's house, at the sign of the Wheatsheaf, in Little Distaff-lane, hard by. "

"I will not fail to deliver your message to the doctor, " replied theman, as he took his departure. 

Left alone with her husband a second time, Judith waited till shethought the man had got out of the cathedral, and then rising and takingthe lamp, she repaired to the charnel, to make sure it was untenanted. Not content with this, she stole out into Saint Faith's, and gazinground as far as the feeble light of her lamp would permit, called out ina tone that even startled herself, "Is any one lurking there?" butreceiving no other answer than was afforded by the deep echoes of theplace, she returned to the vault. Just as she reached the door, a loudcry burst upon her ear, and rushing forward, she found that her husbandhad wakened. 

"Ah!" roared Malmayns, raising himself in bed, as he perceived her, "areyou come back again, you she-devil? Where is my mother? Where isKerrich? What have you done with them?"

"They have both got the plague, " replied his wife. "They caught it fromyou. But never mind them. I will watch over you as long as you live. "

"And that will be for years, you accursed jade, " replied the sexton;"Dr. Hodges says I shall recover. "

"You have got worse since he left you, " replied Judith. "Lie down, andlet me throw these blankets over you. "

"Off!" cried the sick man, furiously. "You shall not approach me. Youwant to smother me. "

"I want to cure you, " replied his wife, heaping the blankets upon thepallet. "The doctor has sent some ointment for your sore. "

"Then let him apply it himself, " cried Malmayns, shaking his fist ather. "You shall not touch me. I will strangle you if you come near me. "

"Matthew, " replied his wife, "I have had the plague myself, and know howto treat it better than any doctor in London. I will cure you, if youwill let me. "

"I have no faith in you, " replied Malmayns, "but I suppose I mustsubmit. Take heed what you do to me, for if I have but five minutes tolive, it will be long enough to revenge myself upon you. "

"I will anoint your sore with this salve, " rejoined Judith, producing apot of dark-coloured ointment, and rubbing his shoulder with it. "It wasgiven me by Sibbald, the apothecary of Clerkenwell He is a friend ofChowles, the coffin-maker. You know Chowles, Matthew?"

"I know him for as great a rascal as ever breathed, " replied herhusband, gruffly. "He has always cheated me out of my dues, and hiscoffins are the worst I ever put under ground. "

"He is making his fortune now, " said Judith. 

"By the plague, eh?" replied Matthew. "I don't envy him. Money so gainedwon't stick to him. He will never prosper. "

"I wish _you_ had his money, Matthew, " replied his wife, in a coaxingtone. 

"If the plague hadn't attacked me when it did, I should have been richerthan Chowles will ever be, " replied the sexton, --"nay, I am richer as itis. "

"You surprise me, " replied Judith, suddenly pausing in her task. "Howhave you obtained your wealth?"

"I have discovered a treasure, " replied, the sexton, with a mockinglaugh, --"a secret hoard--a chest of gold--ha! ha!"

"Where--where?" demanded his wife, eagerly. 

"That's a secret, " replied Matthew. 

"I must have it from him before he dies, " thought his wife. "Had webetter not secure it without delay?" she added, aloud. "Some otherperson may find it. "

"Oh, it's safe enough, " replied Matthew. "It has remained undiscoveredfor more than a hundred years, and will continue so for a hundred tocome, unless I bring it forth. "

"But you _will_ bring it forth, won't you?" said Judith. 

"Undoubtedly, " replied Matthew, "if I get better. But not otherwise. Money would be of no use to me in the grave. "

"But it would be of use to _me_, " replied his wife. 

"Perhaps it might, " replied the sexton; "but if I die, the knowledge ofthe treasure shall die with me. "

"He is deceiving me, " thought Judith, beginning to rub his shoulderafresh. 

"I suspect you have played me false, you jade, " cried Malmayns, writhingwith pain. "The stuff you have applied burns like caustic, and eats intomy flesh. "

"It is doing its duty, " replied his wife, calmly watching his agonies. "You will soon be easier. "

"Perhaps I shall--in death, " groaned the sufferer. "I am parched withthirst. Give me a glass of water. "

"You shall have wine, Matthew, if you prefer it. I have a flask in mypocket, " she replied. "But what of the treasure--where is it?"

"Peace!" he cried. "I will baulk your avaricious hopes. You shall neverknow where it is. "

"I shall know as much as you do, " she rejoined, in a tone ofincredulity. "I don't believe a word you tell me. You have found notreasure. "

"If this is the last word I shall ever utter, I _have_, " he returned;--"a mighty treasure. But you shall never possess it--never!--ah! ah!"

"Nor shall you have the wine, " she replied; "there is water for you, "she added, handing him a jug, which he drained with frantic eagerness. "He is a dead man, " she muttered. 

"I am chilled to the heart, " grasped the sexton, shivering from head tofoot, while chill damps gathered on his brow. "I have done wrong indrinking the water, and you ought not to have given it me. "

"You asked for it, " she replied. "You should have had wine but for yourobstinacy. But I will save you yet, if you will tell me where to findthe treasure. "

"Look for it in my grave, " he returned, with a hideous grin. 

Soon after this, he fell into a sort of stupor. His wife could now haveeasily put a period to his existence, but she still hoped to wrest thesecret from him. She was assured, moreover, that his recovery washopeless. At the expiration of about two hours, he was aroused by theexcruciating anguish of his sore. He had again become delirious, andraved as before about coffins, corpses, graves, and other loathsomematters. Seeing, from his altered looks and the livid and gangrenousappearance which the tumour had assumed, that his end was not far off, Judith resolved not to lose a moment, but to try the effect of a suddensurprise. Accordingly, she bent down her head, and shouted in his ear, "What has become of your treasure, Matthew?"

The plan succeeded to a miracle. The dying man instantly raised himself. 

"My treasure!" he echoed with a yell that made the vault ring again. "Well thought on! I have not secured it. They are carrying it off. Imust prevent them. " And throwing off the coverings, he sprang out ofbed. 

"I shall have it now, " thought his wife. "You are right, " sheadded, --"they are carrying it off. The vergers have discovered it. Theyare digging it up. We must instantly prevent them. "

"We must!" shrieked Malmayns. "Bring the light! bring the light!" Andbursting open the door, he rushed into the adjoining aisle. 

"He will kill himself, and discover the treasure into the bargain, "cried Judith, following him. "Ah! what do I see! People in the church. Curses on them! they have ruined my hopes. "

VIII. 

THE MOSAICAL RODS. 

In pursuance of their design of seeking out an astrologer, Maurice Wyviland Lydyard crossed Cheapside and entered Friday-street. They had notproceeded far, when they perceived a watchman standing beneath a porchwith a lantern in his hand, and thinking it an intimation that the housewas attacked by the plague, they hurried to the opposite side of thestreet, and called to the watchman to inquire whether he knew where Mr. Lilly lived. 

Ascertaining that the house they sought was only a short distance off, they repaired thither, and knocking at the door, a small wicket, protected by a grating, was open within it, and a sharp female voiceinquired their business. 

"Give this to your master, sweetheart, " replied Wyvil, slipping a pursethrough the grating; "and tell him that two gentlemen desire to consulthim. "

"He is engaged just now, " replied the woman, in a much softer tone; "butI will take your message to him. "

"You have more money than wit, " laughed Lydyard. "You should have keptback your fee till you had got the information. "

"In that case I should never have received any, " replied Wyvil. "I havetaken the surest means of obtaining admission to the house. "

As he spoke, the door was unbolted by the woman, who proved to be youngand rather pretty. She had a light in her hand, and directing them tofollow her, led the way to a sort of anteroom, divided, as it appeared, from a larger room by a thick black curtain. Drawing aside the drapery, their conductress ushered them into the presence of three individuals, who were seated at a table strewn with papers, most of which werecovered with diagrams and, astrological calculations. 

One of these persons immediately rose on their appearance, and gravelybut courteously saluted them. He was a tall man, somewhat advanced inlife, being then about sixty-three, with an aquiline nose, dark eyes, not yet robbed of their lustre, grey hair waving over his shoulders, anda pointed beard and moustache. The general expression of his countenancewas shrewd and penetrating, and yet there were certain indications ofcredulity about it, showing that he was as likely to be imposed uponhimself as to delude others. It is scarcely necessary to say that thisway Lilly. 

The person on his right, whose name was John Booker, and who, likehimself, was a proficient in astrology, was so buried in calculation, that he did not raise his eyes from the paper on the approach of thestrangers. He was a stout man, with homely but thoughtful features, andthough not more than a year older than Lilly, looked considerably hissenior. With the exception of a few silver curls hanging down the backof his neck, he was completely bald; but his massive and towering browseemed to indicate the possession of no ordinary intellectual qualities. He was a native of Manchester, and was born in 1601, of a good family. "His excellent verses upon the twelve months, " says Lilly, in hisautobiography, "framed according to the configurations of each month, being blessed with success according to his predictions, procured himmuch reputation all over England. He was a very honest man, " continuesthe same authority; "abhorred any deceit in the art he studied; had acurious fancy in judging of thefts; and was successful in resolvinglove-questions. He was no mean proficient in astronomy; understood muchin physic! was a great admirer of the antimonial cup; and not unlearnedin chemistry, which he loved well, but did not practise. " At the periodof this history, he was clerk to Sir Hugh Hammersley, alderman. 

The third person, --a minor canon of Saint Paul's, named ThomasQuatremain, --was a grave, sallow-complexioned man, with a morose andrepulsive physiognomy. He was habited in the cassock of a churchman ofthe period, and his black velvet cap lay beside him on the table. LikeBooker, he was buried in calculations, and though he looked up for amoment as the others entered the room, he instantly resumed his task, without regard to their presence. 

After looking earnestly at his visitors for a few moments, and appearingto study their features, Lilly motioned them to be seated; but theydeclined the offer. 

"I am not come to take up your time, Mr. Lilly, " said Wyvil, "but simplyto ask your judgment in a matter in which I am much interested. "

"First permit me to return you your purse, sir, since it is from you, Ipresume, that I received it, " replied the astrologer. "No informationthat I can give deserves so large a reward as this. "

Wyvil would have remonstrated. But seeing the other resolute, he wasfain to concede the point. 

"What question do you desire to have resolved, sir?" pursued Lilly. 

"Shall I be fortunate in my hopes?" rejoined Wyvil. 

"You must be a little more precise, " returned the astrologer. "To whatdo your hopes relate?--to wealth, dignity, or love?"

"To the latter, " replied Wyvil. 

"So I inferred from your appearance, sir, " rejoined Lilly, smiling. "Venus was strong in your nativity, though well-dignified; and I should, therefore, say you were not unfrequently entangled in love affairs. Yourinamorata, I presume, is young, perhaps fair, --blue-eyed, brown-haired, tall, slender, and yet perfectly proportioned. "

"She is all you describe, " replied Wyvil. 

"Is she of your own rank?" asked Lilly. 

"Scarcely so, " replied Wyvil, hesitating before he answered thequestion. 

"I will instantly erect a scheme, " replied the astrologer, rapidlytracing a figure on a sheet of paper. "The question refers to theseventh house. I shall take Venus as the natural significatrix of thelady. The moon is in trine with the lord of the ascendant, --so far, good; but there is a cross aspect from Mars, who darts forth maliciousrays upon them. Your suit will probably be thwarted. But what Marsbindeth, Venus dissolveth. It is not wholly hopeless. I should recommendyou to persevere. "

"Juggler!" exclaimed "Wyvil between his teeth. 

"I am no juggler!" replied Lilly, angrily; "and to prove I am not, Iwill tell you who you are who thus insult me, though you have notannounced yourself, and are desirous of preserving your _incognito_. Youare the Earl of Rochester, and your companion is Sir George Etherege. "

"'Fore heaven! we are discovered, " cried the earl; "but whether by art, magic, or from previous acquaintance with our features, I pretend not todetermine. "

"In either case, my lord, --for it is useless, since you have avowedyourself, to address you longer as Wyvil, " replied Etherege, --"you oweMr. Lilly an apology for the insult you have offered him. It was asundeserved as uncalled for; for he described your position with Amabelexactly. "

"I am sorry for what I said, " replied the earl, with great frankness, "and entreat Mr. Lilly to overlook it, and impute it to its realcause, --disappointment at his judgment. "

"I wish I could give you better hopes, my lord, " replied Lilly; "but Ireadily accept your apology. Have you any further questions to ask me?"

"Not to-night, " replied the earl; "except that I would gladly learnwhether it is your opinion that the plague will extend its ravages?"

"It will extend them so far, my lord, that there shall neither beburiers for the dead, nor sound to look after the sick, " replied Lilly. "You may have seen a little tract of mine published in 1651, --somefourteen years ago, --called '_Monarchy or No Monarchy in England_, ' inwhich, by an hieroglyphic, I foretold this terrible calamity. "

"I heard his majesty speak of the book no later than yesterday, " repliedRochester. "He has the highest opinion of your skill, Mr. Lilly, as hecannot blind himself to the fact that you foretold his father's death. But this is not the only visitation with which you threaten our devotedcity. "

"It is threatened by Heaven, not by me, my lord, " replied Lilly. "Londonwill be devoured by plague and consumed by fire. "

"In our time?" asked Etherege. 

"Before two years have passed over our heads, " returned the astrologer. "The pestilence originated in the conjunction of Saturn and Jupiter inSagittarius, on the 10th of last October, and the conjunction of Saturnand Mars in the same sign, on the 12th of November. It was harbingeredalso by the terrible comet of January, which appeared in a cadent andobscure house, denoting sickness and death: and another and yet moreterrible comet, which will be found in the fiery triplicity of Aries, Leo, and Sagittarius, will be seen before the conflagration. "

"My calculations are, that the plague will be at its worst in August andSeptember, and will not cease entirely till the beginning of December, "observed Booker, laying aside his pen. 

"And I doubt not you are right, sir, " said Lilly, "for your calculationsare ever most exact. "

"My labour is not thrown away, Mr. Lilly, " cried Quatremain, who hadfinished his task at the same time. "I have discovered what I have longsuspected, that treasure _is_ hidden in Saint Paul's Cathedral. Mercuryis posited in the north angle of the fourth house; the dragon's tail islikewise within it; and as Sol is the significator, it must be gold. "

"True, " replied Lilly. 

"Furthermore, " proceeded Quatremain, "as the sign is earthy, thetreasure must be buried in the vaults. "

"Undoubtedly, " replied Booker. 

"I am all impatience to search for it, " said Quatremain. "Let us gothere at once, and make trial of the mosaical rods. "

"With all my heart, " replied Lilly. "My lord, " he added to Rochester, "Imust pray you to excuse me. You have heard what claims my attention. "

"I have, " returned the earl, "and should like to accompany you in thequest, if you will permit me. "

"You must address yourself to Mr. Quatremain, " rejoined Lilly. "If heconsents, I can make no objection. "

The minor canon, on being appealed to, signified his acquiescence, andafter some slight preparation, Lilly produced two hazel rods, and theparty set out. 

A few minutes' walking brought them to the northern entrance of thecathedral, where they speedily aroused the poor verger, who began tofancy he was to have no rest that night. On learning their purpose, however, he displayed the utmost alacrity, and by Quatremain'sdirections went in search of his brother-verger, and a mason, who, beingemployed at the time in making repairs in the chantries, lodged withinthe cathedral. 

This occasioned a delay of a few minutes, during which Rochester andEtherege had an opportunity, like that enjoyed a short time before byLeonard Holt, of beholding the magnificent effect of the columned aislesby moonlight. By this time the other verger, who was a young and activeman, and the mason, arrived, and mattocks, spades, and an iron bar beingprocured, and a couple of torches lighted, they descended to SaintFaith's. 

Nothing more picturesque can be conceived than the effect of thetorchlight on the massive pillars and low-browed roof of thesubterranean church. Nor were the figures inappropriate to the scene. Lilly, with the mosaical rods in his hand, which he held at a shortdistance from the floor, moving first to one point, then to another; nowlingering within the gloomy nave, now within the gloomier aisles; thegrave minor canon, who kept close beside him, and watched his movementswith the most intense anxiety; Booker, with his venerable headuncovered, and his bald brow reflecting the gleam of the torches; thetwo court gallants in their rich attire; and the vergers and theircomrade, armed with the implements for digging;--all constituted astriking picture. And as Rochester stepped aside to gaze at it, hethought he had never beheld a more singular scene. 

Hitherto, no success had attended the searchers. The mosaical rods hadcontinued motionless. At length, however, Lilly reached a part of thewall where a door appeared to have been stopped up, and playing the rodsnear it, they turned one over the other. 

"The treasure is here!" he exclaimed. "It is hidden beneath this flag. "

Instantly, all were in action. Quatremain called to his assistants tobring their mattocks and the iron bar. Rochester ran up and tendered hisaid; Etherege did the same; and in a few moments the flag was forcedfrom its position. 

On examination, it seemed as if the ground beneath it had been recentlydisturbed, though it was carefully trodden down. But without stopping toinvestigate the matter, the mason and the younger verger commenceddigging. When they were tired, Lilly and Quatremain took their places, and in less than an hour they had got to the depth of upwards of fourfeet. Still nothing had been found, and Lilly was just about torelinquish his spade to the mason, when, plunging it more deeply intothe ground, it struck against some hard substance. 

"It is here--we have it!" he cried, renewing his exertions. 

Seconded by Quatremain, they soon cleared off the soil, and came to whatappeared to be a coffin or a large chest. Both then got out of the pitto consider how they should remove the chest; the whole party werediscussing the matter, when a tremendous crash, succeeded by a terrificyell, was heard at the other end of the church, and a ghastly andhalf-naked figure, looking like a corpse broken from the tomb, rushedforward with lightning swiftness, and shrieking--"My treasure!--mytreasure!--you shall not have it!"--thrust aside the group, and plungedinto the excavation. 

When the bystanders recovered sufficient courage to drag the unfortunatesexton out of the pit, they found him quite dead. 

IX. 

THE MINIATURE. 

According to his promise, Doctor Hodges visited the grocer's house earlyon the following day, and the favourable opinion he had expressedrespecting Stephen Bloundel was confirmed by the youth's appearance. Thepustule had greatly increased in size; but this the doctor looked uponas a good sign: and after applying fresh poultices, and administering ahot posset-drink, he covered the patient with blankets, and recommendingas much tranquillity as possible, he proceeded, at Bloundel's request, to ascertain the state of health of the rest of the family. Satisfiedthat all the household (including Blaize, who, being a little out oforder from the quantity of medicine he had swallowed, kept his bed) wereuninfected, he went upstairs, and finding the two boys quite well, andplaying with their little sister Christiana, in the happyunconsciousness of childhood, he tapped at the door of Mrs. Bloundel'schamber, and was instantly admitted. Amabel did not raise her eyes athis entrance, but continued the employment on which she was engaged. Hermother, however, overwhelmed him with inquiries as to the sufferer, andentreated him to prevail upon her husband to let her take his place atthe sick bed. 

"I cannot accede to your request, madam, " replied Hodges; "because Ithink the present arrangement the best that could be adopted. "

"And am I not to see poor Stephen again?" cried Mrs. Bloundel, burstinginto tears. 

"I hope you will soon see him again, and not lose sight of him for manyyears to come, " replied the doctor. "As far as I can judge, the dangeris over, and, aided by your husband's care and watchfulness, I havelittle doubt of bringing the youth round. "

"You reconcile me to the deprivation, doctor, " rejoined Mrs. Bloundel;"but can you insure my husband against the distemper?"

"I can insure no one against contagion, " replied Hodges; "but there ismuch in his favour. He has no fear, and takes every needful precaution. You must hope for the best. I think it right to tell you, that you willbe separated from him for a month. "

"Separated from my husband for a month, doctor!" cried Mrs. Bloundel. "Imust see him to-day. I have something of importance to say to him. "

At this point of the conversation Amabel for the first time looked up. Her eyes were red and inflamed with weeping, and her looks betrayedgreat internal suffering. 

"You cannot see my father, mother, " she said in a broken andsupplicatory tone. 

"But she can write to him, or send a message by me, " rejoined Hodges. "Iwill deliver it when I go downstairs. "

"What my mother has to say cannot be confided to a third party, sir, "returned Amabel. 

"Better defer it, then, " said the doctor, who, as he looked hard at her, and saw the colour mount to her cheeks, began to suspect something ofthe truth. "Whatever you have to say, Mrs. Bloundel, may be very welldelayed; for the house is now closed, with a watchman at the door, andwill continue so for a month to come. No one can quit it, except membersof our profession, searchers, nurses, and other authorized persons, during that time. "

"But can no one enter it, do you think?" asked Mrs. Bloundel. 

"No one would desire to do so, I should conceive, except a lover, "replied Hodges, with a sly look at Amabel, who instantly averted hergaze. "Where a pretty girl is concerned, the plague itself has noterrors. "

"Precisely my opinion, doctor, " rejoined Mrs. Bloundel; "and as I cannotconsult my husband, perhaps you will favour me with your advice as tohow I ought to act, if such a person as you describe should get into thehouse. "

"I seldom meddle with family matters, " rejoined Hodges; "but I feel somuch interest in all that relates to Mr. Bloundel, that I am induced todepart from my rule on the present occasion. It is evident you have lostyour heart, " he added, to Amabel, whose blushes told him he was right;"but not, I hope, to one of those worthless court-gallants, who, as Ilearn from common report, are in the habit of toasting you daily. If itis so, you must subdue your passion; for it cannot lead to good. Be notdazzled by a brilliant exterior, which often conceals a treacherousheart; but try to fix your affections on some person of littlepretension, but of solid worth. Never, I grieve to say, was there aseason when such universal profligacy prevailed as at present. Never wasit so necessary for a young maiden, possessed of beauty like yours, toact with discretion. Never was a court so licentious as that of oursovereign, Charles the Second, whose corrupt example is imitated byevery one around him, while its baneful influence extends to allclasses. Were I to echo the language of the preachers, I should say itwas owing to the wickedness and immorality of the times that thisdreadful judgment of the plague has been inflicted upon us; but I merelybring it forward as an argument to prove to you, Amabel, that if youwould escape the moral contagion by which you are threatened, you mustput the strictest guard upon your conduct. "

Amabel faintly murmured her thanks. 

"You speak as my husband himself would have spoken, " said Mrs. Bloundel. "Ah! we little thought, when we prayed that the pestilence might beaverted from us, that a worse calamity was behind, and that one of themost profligate of the courtiers you have mentioned would find his wayto our house. "

"One of the most profligate of them?" cried Hodges. "Who, in Heaven'sname?"

"He calls himself Maurice Wyvil, " replied Mrs. Bloundel. 

"I never heard of such a person, " rejoined the doctor. "It must be anassumed name. Have you no letter or token that might lead to hisdiscovery?" he added, turning to Amabel. 

"I have his portrait, " she replied, drawing a small miniature from herbosom. 

"I am glad I have seen this, " said the doctor, slightly starting as hecast his eyes upon it. "I hope it is not too late to save you, Amabel, "he added, in a severe tone. "I hope you are free from contamination?"

"As I live, I am, " she replied. "But you recognise the likeness?"

"I do, " returned Hodges. "It is the portrait of one whose vices anddepravity are the town's cry, and whose name coupled with that of awoman, is sufficient to sully her reputation. "

"It is the Earl of Rochester, " said Mrs. Bloundel. 

"You have guessed aright, " replied the doctor; "it is. "

Uttering an exclamation of surprise and terror, Amabel fell back in herchair. 

"I thought it must be that wicked nobleman, " cried Mrs. Bloundel. "Wouldyou believe it, doctor, that he forced himself into the house--nay, intothis room--last night, and would have carried off my daughter, in spiteof her resistance, if I had not prevented him. "

"I can believe anything of him, " replied Hodges. "But your husband, ofcourse, knows nothing of the matter?"

"Not as yet, " replied Mrs. Bloundel; "but I authorize you to tell himall. "

"Mother, dear mother, " cried Amabel, flinging herself on her kneesbefore her, "I implore you not to add to my father's present distress. Imight not have been able to conquer my attachment to Maurice Wyvil, butnow that I find he is the Earl of Rochester, I regard him withabhorrence. "

"If I could believe you sincere, " said Mrs. Bloundel, "I might beinduced to spare your father the pain which the knowledge of thisunfortunate affair would necessarily inflict. "

"I am sincere, --indeed I am, " replied Amabel. 

"To prove that the earl could not have had honourable intentions towardsyou, Amabel, " said the doctor, "I may mention that he is at this momenturging his suit with Mistress Mallet, --a young heiress. "

"Ah!" exclaimed Amabel. "

"I was in attendance upon Mistress Stewart, the king's presentfavourite, the day before yesterday, " continued Hodges, "and heard hismajesty entreat her to use her influence with Mistress Mallet inRochester's behalf. After this, you cannot doubt the nature of hisintentions towards yourself. "

"I cannot--I cannot, " rejoined Amabel. "He is perfidy itself. But isMistress Mallet very beautiful, doctor?"

"Very beautiful, and very rich, " he replied, "and the earl isdesperately in love with her. I heard him declare laughingly to theking, that if she would not consent to marry him, he would carry heroff. "

"Just what he said to me, " exclaimed Amabel--"perjured and faithlessthat he is!"

"Harp on that string, doctor, " whispered Mrs. Bloundel. "You understandher feelings exactly. "

"Strangely enough, " pursued the doctor, who, having carefully examinedthe miniature, had opened the back of the case, and could not repress asmile at what he beheld--"strangely enough, this very picture willconvince you of the earl's inconstancy. It was evidently designed forMistress Mallet, and, as she would not accept it, transferred to you. "

"How do you know this, sir?" inquired Amabel, in a mortified tone. 

"Hear what is written within it, " answered Hodges, laying the open casebefore her, and reading as follows: "'To the sole possessor of hisheart, the fair Mistress Mallet, this portrait is offered by her devotedslave--ROCHESTER. ' 'The _sole_ possessor of his heart!' So you have noshare in it, you perceive, Amabel. 'Her devoted slave!' Is he your slavelikewise? Ha! ha!"

"It _is_ his writing, " cried Amabel. "This note, " she added, producing abillet, "is in the same hand. My eyes are indeed open to his treachery. "

"I am glad to hear it, " replied Hodges, "and if I can preserve you fromthe snares of this noble libertine, I shall rejoice as much as in curingyour brother of the plague. But can you rely upon yourself, in case theearl should make another attempt to see you?"

"I can, " she averred confidently. 

"In that case there is nothing to apprehend, " rejoined Hodges; "and Ithink it better on many accounts not to mention the subject to yourfather. It would only distract his mind, and prevent him from dulydischarging the painful task he has undertaken. Were I in your place, Amabel, I would not only forget my present perfidious lover, but wouldinstantly bestow my affections on some worthy person. "

"It would gladden me if she would do so, " said Mrs. Bloundel. 

"There is your father's apprentice, Leonard Holt, a good-looking, well-grown lad, " pursued the doctor; "and I much mistake if he isinsensible to your attractions. "

"I am sure he loves her dearly, doctor, " replied Mrs. Bloundel. "He isas well-principled as well-looking. I have never had a fault to findwith him since he came to live with us. It will rejoice me, and I amsure would not displease my husband, to see our child united to LeonardHolt. "

"Well, what say you, Amabel?" asked Hodges. "Can you give him a hope?"

"Alas, no!" replied Amabel; "I have been deceived once, but I will notbe deceived a second time. I will never wed. "

"So every woman says after her first disappointment, " observed Hodges;"but not one in ten adheres to the resolution. When you become calmer, Iwould recommend you to think seriously of Leonard Holt. "

At this moment, a tap was heard at the door, and opening it, the doctorbeheld the person in question. 

"What is the matter?" cried Hodges. "I hope nothing is amiss. "

"Nothing whatever, " replied Leonard, "but my master wishes to see youbefore you leave the house. "

"I will go to him at once, " replied the doctor. "Good day, Mrs. Bloundel. Take care of your daughter, and I hope she will take care ofherself. We have been talking about you, young man, " he added in a lowtone to the apprentice, "and I have recommended you as a husband toAmabel. "

"There was a time, sir, " rejoined Leonard, in a tone of deep emotion, "when I hoped it might be so, but that time is past. "

"No such thing, " replied the doctor. "Now is the time to make animpression. Her heart is on the rebound. She is satisfied of her lover'streachery. Her mother is on your side. Do not neglect the presentopportunity, for another may not arrive. " With this he pushed Leonardinto the room, and, shutting the door upon him, hurried downstairs. 

"You have arrived at a seasonable juncture, Leonard, " observed Mrs. Bloundel, noticing the apprentice's perplexity, and anxious to relieveit. "We have just discovered that the person calling himself MauriceWyvil is no other than the Earl of Rochester. "

"Indeed!" exclaimed Leonard. 

"Yes, indeed, " returned Mrs. Bloundel. "But this is not all. Amabel haspromised to forget him, and I have urged her to think of you. "

"Amabel, " said Leonard, advancing towards her, and taking her hand, "Ican scarcely credit what I hear. Will you confirm your mother's words?"

"Leonard, " returned Amabel, "I am not insensible to your good qualities, and no one can more truly esteem you than I do. Nay, till Iunfortunately saw the Earl of Rochester, whom I knew not as such, Imight have loved you. But now I cannot call my heart my own. I have notthe affection you deserve to bestow upon you. If I can obliterate thistreacherous man's image from my memory--and Heaven, I trust, will giveme strength to do so--I will strive to replace it with your own. "

"That is all I ask, " cried Leonard, dropping on his knee before her, andpressing his lips to her hand. 

"Nothing would make me happier than to see you united, my children, "said Mrs. Bloundel, bending affectionately over them. 

"And I would do anything to make you happy, dear mother, " repliedAmabel, gently withdrawing her hand, from that of the apprentice. 

"Before I leave you, " said Leonard, rising, "I must give you this note. I found it lying before your chamber door as I passed this morning. Howit came there I know not, but I can give a shrewd guess as to thewriter. I ought to tell you, that but for what has just occurred, Ishould not have delivered it to you. "

"It is from Wyvil--I mean Rochester, " said Amabel, taking the note witha trembling hand. 

"Let me see it, child, " cried Mrs. Bloundel, snatching it from her, andbreaking the seal. "Insolent!" she exclaimed, as she cast her eyes overit. "I can scarcely contain my indignation. But let him cross my pathagain, and he shall find whether I cannot resent such shameful usage. "

"What does he say, dear mother ?" asked Amabel. 

"You shall hear, " replied Mrs. Bloundel, "though I blush to repeat hiswords: 'Amabel, you are mine. No one shall keep you from me. Love likemine will triumph over all obstacles!'--Love like his, forsooth!" sheremarked; "let him keep such stuff as that for Mistress Mallet, or hisother mistresses. But I will go on: 'I may be foiled ninety-nine times, but the hundredth will succeed. We shall soon meet again. 'MAURICE WYVIL. '"

"Never!" cried Amabel. "We will never meet again. If he holds me thuscheaply, I will let him see that he is mistaken. Leonard Holt, I havetold you the exact state of my feelings. I do not love you now, but Iregard you as a true friend, and love may come hereafter. If in amonth's time you claim my hand; if my father consents to our union, foryou are aware that my mother will not oppose it--I am yours. "

Leonard attempted to speak, but his voice was choked with emotion, andthe tears started to his eyes. 

"Farewell, " said Amabel. "Do not let us meet till the appointed time. Rest assured, I will think of you as you deserve. "

"We could not meet till that time, even if you desired it, " saidLeonard, "for your father has forbidden any of the household, except oldJosyna, to approach you till all fear of contagion is at an end, and Iam now transgressing his commands. But your mother, I am sure, willacquit me of intentional disobedience. "

"I do, " replied Mrs. Bloundel; "it was the doctor who forced you intothe room. But I am heartily glad he did so. "

"Farewell, Amabel, " said Leonard. "Though I shall not see you, I willwatch carefully over you. " And gazing at her with unutterable affection, he quitted the chamber. 

"You must now choose between the heartless and depraved nobleman, whowould desert you as soon as won, " observed Mrs. Bloundel, "and thehonest apprentice, whose life would be devoted to your happiness. "

"I _have_ chosen, " replied her daughter. 

Doctor Hodges found the grocer writing at a small table, close to thebedside of his son. 

"I am happy to tell you, Mr. Bloundel, " he said, in a low tone, as heentered the room, "that all your family are still free from infection, and with due care will, I hope, continue so. But I entirely approve ofyour resolution of keeping apart from them till the month has expired. If your son goes on as he is doing now, he will be as strong as ever inless than a fortnight. Still, as we cannot foresee what may occur, it isbetter to err on the cautious side. "

"Pray be seated for a moment, " rejoined the grocer, motioning the otherto the chair. "I mentioned to you last night that in case my sonrecovered, I had a plan which I trusted (under Providence!) wouldpreserve my family from the further assaults of the pestilence. "

"I remember your alluding to it, " replied Hodges, "and should be glad toknow what it is. "

"I must tell it you in confidence, " rejoined Bloundel, "because I thinksecresy essential to its entire accomplishment. My plan is a very simpleone, and only requires firmness in its execution--and that quality, Ithink, I possess. It is your opinion, I know, as it is my own, that theplague will increase in violence and endure for months--probably, tillnext winter. My intention is to store my house with provisions, as aship is victualled for a long voyage, and then to shut it up entirelytill the scourge ceases. "

"If your project is practicable, " said Hodges, after a moment'sreflection, "I have no doubt it will be attended, with every good resultyou can desire. This house, which is large and roomy, is well adaptedfor your purpose. But you must consider well whether your family willsubmit to be imprisoned during the long period you propose. "

"They shall remain close prisoners, even if the pestilence lasts for atwelvemonth, " replied the grocer. "Whoever quits the house, when it isonce closed, and on whatever plea, be it wife, son, or daughter, returnsnot. That is my fixed resolve. "

"And you are right, " rejoined Hodges, "for on that determination thesuccess of your scheme entirely depends. "

While they were thus conversing, Leonard entered the chamber, andinformed his master that Chowles, the coffin-maker, and Mrs. Malmayns, the plague-nurse, desired to see him. 

"Mrs. Malmayns!" exclaimed Hodges, in surprise. "I heard that somethingvery extraordinary occurred last night in Saint Faith's. With yourpermission, Mr. Bloundel, she shall be admitted; I want to ask her a fewquestions. You had better hesitate about engaging her, " he observed tothe grocer, as Leonard departed, "for she is a woman of very indifferentcharacter, though she may (for aught I know) be a good and fearlessnurse. "

"If there is any doubt about her, I _cannot_ hesitate, " returnedBloundel. 

As he said this, the door was opened by Leonard, and Chowles and Judithentered the room. The latter, on seeing the doctor, looked greatlyembarrassed. 

"I have brought you the nurse I spoke of, Mr. Bloundel, " said Chowles, bowing, "and am come to inquire whether you want a coffin to-night. "

"Mr. Bloundel is not likely to require a coffin at present, Chowles, "returned the doctor, severely; "neither does his son stand in need of anurse. How is your husband, Mrs. Malmayns?"

"He is dead, sir, " replied Judith. 

"Dead!" echoed the doctor. "When I left him at one o'clock this morning, he was doing well. Your attendance seems to have accelerated his end. "

"His death was occasioned by an accident, sir, " replied Judith. "Hebecame delirious about three o'clock, and, in spite of all my efforts todetain him, started out of bed, rushed into Saint Faith's, and threwhimself into a pit, which Mr. Lilly and some other persons had digged insearch of treasure. "

"This is a highly improbable story, Mrs. Malmayns, " returned Hodges, "and I must have the matter thoroughly investigated before I lose sightof you. "

"I will vouch for the truth of Mrs. Malmayn's statement, " interposedChowles. 

"You!" cried Hodges, contemptuously. 

"Yes, I, " replied the coffin-maker. "It seems that the sexton had founda chest of treasure buried in Saint Faith's, and being haunted by theidea that some one was carrying it off, he suddenly sprang out of bed, and rushed to the church, where, sure enough, Mr. Lilly, Mr. Quatremain, the Earl of Rochester, and Sir George Etherege, having, by the help ofmosaical rods, discovered this very chest, were digging it up. PoorMatthew instantly plunged into the grave, and died of a sudden chill. "

"That is not impossible, " observed Hodges, after a pause. "But what hasbecome of the treasure?"

"It is in the possession of Mr. Quatremain, who has given notice of itto the proper authorities, " replied Chowles. "It consists, as Iunderstand, of gold pieces struck in the reign of Philip and Mary, images of the same metal, crosses, pyxes, chalices, and other Popish andsuperstitious vessels, buried, probably, when Queen Elizabeth came tothe throne, and the religion changed. "

"Not unlikely, " replied Hodges. "Where is your husband's body, Mrs. Malmayns?"

"It has been removed to the vault which he usually occupied, " repliedJudith. "Mr. Chowles has undertaken to bury it to-night. "

"I must see it first, " replied Hodges, "and be sure that he has not metwith foul play. "

"And I will accompany you, " said Chowles. "So you do not want a coffin, Mr. Bloundel?"

The grocer shook his head. 

"Good day, Mr. Bloundel, " said Hodges. "I shall visit you to-morrow, andhope to find your son as well as I leave him. Chowles, you will beanswerable for the safe custody of Mrs. Malmayns. "

"I have no desire to escape, sir, " replied the nurse. "You will findeverything as I have represented. "

"We shall see, " replied the doctor. "If not, you will have to tend thesick in Newgate. "

The trio then proceeded to Saint Paul's, and descended to the vaults. Hodges carefully examined the body of the unfortunate sexton, but thoughhe entertained strong suspicions, he could not pronounce positively thathe had been improperly treated; and as the statement of Mrs. Malmaynswas fully borne out by the vergers and others, he did not think itnecessary to pursue the investigation further. As soon as he was gone, Judith accompanied the coffin-maker to his residence, where sheremained, till the evening, when she was suddenly summoned, in a case ofurgency, by a messenger from Sibbald, the apothecary of Clerkenwell. 

X. 

THE DUEL. 

After Parravicin's terrible announcement, Disbrowe offered him nofurther violence, but, flinging down his sword, burst open the door, andrushed upstairs. His wife was still insensible, but the fatal mark thathad betrayed the presence of the plague to the knight manifested itselfalso to him, and he stood like one entranced, until Mrs. Disbrowe, recovering from her swoon, opened her eyes, and, gazing at him, cried--"You here!--Oh Disbrowe, I dreamed you had deserted me--had soldme to another. "

"Would it were a dream!" replied her husband. 

"And was it not so?" she rejoined, pressing her hand to her temples. "Itis true! oh! yes, I feel it is. Every circumstance rushes upon meplainly and distinctly. I see the daring libertine before me. He stoodwhere you stand, and told me what you had done. "

"What did he tell you, Margaret?" asked Disbrowe in a hollow voice. 

"He told me you were false--that you loved another, and had abandonedme. "

"He lied!" exclaimed Disbrowe, in a voice of uncontrollable fury. "It istrue that, in a moment of frenzy, I was tempted to set you--yes, _you_, Margaret--against all I had lost at play, and was compelled to yield upthe key of my house to the winner. But I have never been faithless toyou--never. "

"Faithless or not, " replied his wife, bitterly, "it is plain you valueme less than play, or you would not have acted thus. "

"Reproach me not, Margaret, " replied Disbrowe; "I would give worlds toundo what I have done. "

"Who shall guard me against the recurrence of such conduct?" said Mrs. Disbrowe, coldly. "But you have not yet informed me how I was saved. "

Disbrowe averted his head. 

"What mean you?" she cried, seizing his arm. "What has happened? Do notkeep me in suspense? Were you my preserver?"

"Your preserver was the plague, " rejoined Disbrowe, in a sombre tone. 

The unfortunate lady then, for the first time, perceived that she wasattacked by the pestilence, and a long and dreadful pause ensued, brokenonly by exclamations of anguish from both. 

"Disbrowe!" cried Margaret, at length, raising herself in bed, "you havedeeply--irrecoverably injured me. But promise me one thing. "

"I swear to do whatever you may desire, " he replied. 

"I know not, after what I have heard, whether you have courage for thedeed, " she continued. "But I would have you kill this man. "

"I will do it, " replied Disbrowe. 

"Nothing but his blood can wipe out the wrong he has done me, " sherejoined. "Challenge him to a duel--a mortal duel. If he survives, by mysoul, I will give myself to him. "

"Margaret!" exclaimed Disbrowe. 

"I swear it, " she rejoined. "And you know my passionate nature too wellto doubt I will keep my word. "

"But you have the plague!"

"What does that matter? I may recover. "

"Not so, " muttered Disbrowe. "If I fall, I will take care you do notrecover. I will fight him to-morrow, " he added aloud. 

He then summoned his servants, but when they found their mistress wasattacked by the plague, they framed some excuse to leave the room, andinstantly fled the house. Driven almost to his wits' end, Disbrowe wentin search of other assistance, and was for a while unsuccessful, until acoachman, to whom he applied, offered, for a suitable reward, to driveto Clerkenwell--to the shop of an apothecary named Sibbald (with whosename the reader is already familiar), who was noted for his treatment ofplague patients, and to bring him to the other's residence. Disbroweimmediately closed with the man, and in less than two hours Sibbald madehis appearance. He was a singular and repulsive personage, with animmense hooked nose, dark, savage-looking eyes, a skin like parchment, and high round shoulders, which procured him the nickname of Aesop amonghis neighbours. He was under the middle size, and of a spare figure, andin age might be about sixty-five. 

On seeing Mrs. Disbrowe, he at once boldly asserted that he could cureher, and proceeded to apply his remedies. Finding the servants fled, heoffered to procure a nurse for Disbrowe, and the latter, thanking him, eagerly embraced the offer. Soon after this he departed. In the eveningthe nurse, who (as may be surmised) was no other than Judith Malmayns, arrived, and immediately commenced her functions. 

Disbrowe had no rest that night. His wife slept occasionally for a fewminutes, but, apparently engrossed by one idea, never failed when sheawoke to urge him to slay Parravicin; repeating her oath to give herselfto the knight if he came off victorious. Worn out at length, Disbrowegave her a terrible look, and rushed out of the room. 

He had not been alone many minutes when he was surprised by the entranceof Judith. He eagerly inquired whether his wife was worse, but wasinformed she had dropped into a slumber. 

"Hearing what has passed between you, " said the nurse, "and noticingyour look when you left the room, I came to tell you, that if you fallin this duel, your last moments need not be embittered by any thoughtsof your wife. I will take care she does not recover. "

A horrible smile lighted up Disbrowe's features. 

"You are the very person I want, " he said. "When I would do evil, thefiend rises to my bidding. If I am slain, you know what to do. How shallI requite the service?"

"Do not concern yourself about that, captain, " rejoined Judith. "I willtake care of myself. "

About noon, on the following day, Disbrowe, without venturing to see hiswife, left the house, and proceeded to the Smyrna, where, as heexpected, he found Parravicin and his companions. 

The knight instantly advanced towards him, and, laying aside for themoment his reckless air, inquired, with a look of commiseration, afterhis wife. 

"She is better, " replied Disbrowe, fiercely. "I am come to settleaccounts with you. "

"I thought they were settled long ago, " returned Parravicin, instantlyresuming his wonted manner. "But I am glad to find you consider the debtunpaid. "

Disbrowe lifted the cane he held in his hand, and struck the knight withit forcibly on the shoulder. "Be that my answer, " he said. 

"I will have your life first, and your wife afterwards, " repliedParravicin, furiously. 

"You shall have her if you slay me, but not otherwise, " retortedDisbrowe. "It must be a mortal duel. "

"It must, " replied Parravicin. "I will not spare you this time. "

"Spare him!" cried Pillichody. "Shield of Agamemnon! I should hope not. Spit him as you would a wild boar. "

"Peace, fool!" cried Parravicin. "Captain Disbrowe, I shall instantlyproceed to the west side of Hyde Park, beneath the trees. I shall expectyou there. On my return I shall call on your wife. "

"I pray you do so, sir, " replied Disbrowe, disdainfully. 

Both then quitted the coffee-house, Parravicin attended by Rochester andPillichody, and Disbrowe accompanied by a military friend, whom heaccidentally encountered. Each party taking a coach, they soon reachedthe ground, --a retired spot, completely screened from observation bytrees. The preliminaries were soon arranged, for neither would admit ofdelay. The conflict then commenced with great fury on both sides; butParravicin, in spite of his passion, observed far more caution than hisantagonist; and, taking advantage of an unguarded movement, occasionedby the other's impetuosity, passed his sword through his body. 

Disbrowe fell. 

"You are again successful, " he groaned, "but save my wife--save her. "

"What mean you?" cried Parravicin, leaning over him, as he wiped hissword. 

But Disbrowe could make no answer. His utterance was choked by a suddeneffusion of blood on the lungs, and he instantly expired. Leaving thebody in care of the second, Parravicin and his friends returned to thecoach, where the major rejoiced greatly at the issue of the duel; butthe knight looked grave, and pondered upon the words of the dying man. After a time, however, he recovered his spirits, and dined with hisfriends at the Smyrna; but they observed that he drank more deeply thanusual. His excesses did not, however, prevent him from playing with hisusual skill, and he won a large sum from Rochester at hazard. 

Flushed with success, and heated with wine, he walked up to Disbrowe'sresidence about an hour after midnight. As he approached the house, heobserved a strangely-shaped cart at the door, and, halting for a moment, saw a body, wrapped in a shroud, brought out. Could it be Mrs. Disbrowe?Rushing forward, to one of the assistants in black cloaks--and who wasno other than Chowles--he asked whom he was about to inter. 

"It is a Mrs. Disbrowe, " replied the coffin-maker. "She died of grief, because her husband was killed this morning in a duel; but as she hadthe plague, it must be put down to that. We are not particular in suchmatters, and shall bury her and her husband together; and as there is nomoney left to pay for coffins, they must go to the grave without them. What, ho! Mother Malmayns, let Jonas have the captain as soon as youhave stripped him. I must be starting. "

And as the body of his victim was brought forth, Parravicin fell againstthe wall in a state almost of stupefaction. 

At this moment Solomon Eagle, with his brazier on his head, suddenlyturned the corner of the street, and stationing himself before thedead-cart, cried in a voice of thunder, "Woe to the libertine! woe tothe homicide! for he shall perish in everlasting fire! Woe! woe!"

BOOK THE SECOND. 

MAY, 1665. 

I. 

PROGRESS OF THE PESTILENCE. 

Towards the middle of May, the bills of mortality began to swell greatlyin amount, and though but few were put down to the plague, and a largenumber to the spotted fever (another frightful disorder raging at theperiod), it is well known that the bulk had died of the former disease. The rigorous measures adopted by the authorities (whether salutary ornot has been questioned), in shutting up houses and confining the sickand sound within them for forty days, were found so intolerable, thatmost persons were disposed to run any risk rather than be subjected tosuch a grievance, and every artifice was resorted to for concealing acase when it occurred. Hence, it seldom happened, unless by accident, that a discovery was made. Quack doctors were secretly consulted, instead of the regular practitioners; the searchers were bribed tosilence; and large fees were given to the undertakers and buriers to laythe deaths to the account of some other disorder. All this, however, didnot blind the eyes of the officers to the real state of things. Redoubling their vigilance, they entered houses on mere suspicion;inflicted punishments where they found their orders disobeyed orneglected; sent the sound to prison, --the sick to the pest-house; andreplaced the faithless searchers by others upon whom they could placereliance. Many cases were thus detected; but in spite of everyprecaution, the majority escaped; and the vent was no sooner stopped inone quarter than it broke out with additional violence in another. 

By this time the alarm had become general. All whose business orpursuits permitted it, prepared to leave London, which they regarded asa devoted city, without delay. As many houses were, therefore, closedfrom the absence of the inhabitants as from the presence of the plague, and this added to the forlorn appearance of the streets, which in somequarters were almost deserted. For a while, nothing was seen at thegreat outlets of the city but carts, carriages, and other vehicles, filled with goods and movables, on their way to the country; and, as maybe supposed, the departure of their friends did not tend to abate thedejection of those whose affairs compelled them to remain behind. 

One circumstance must not be passed unnoticed, namely, the continuedfineness and beauty of the weather. No rain had fallen for upwards ofthree weeks. The sky was bright and cloudless; the atmosphere, apparently, pure and innoxious; while the heat was as great as isgenerally experienced in the middle of summer. But instead of producingits usual enlivening effect on the spirits, the fine weather added tothe general gloom and apprehension, inasmuch as it led to the belief(afterwards fully confirmed), that if the present warmth was sopernicious, the more sultry seasons which were near at hand wouldaggravate the fury of the pestilence. Sometimes, indeed, when the deathswere less numerous, a hope began to be entertained that the distemperwas abating, and confidence was for a moment restored; but theseanticipations were speedily checked by the reappearance of the scourge, which seemed to baffle and deride all human skill and foresight. 

London now presented a lamentable spectacle. Not a street but had ahouse in it marked with a red cross--some streets had many such. Thebells were continually tolling for burials, and the dead-carts wenttheir melancholy rounds at night and were constantly loaded. Freshdirections were issued by the authorities; and as domestic animals wereconsidered to be a medium of conveying the infection, an order, whichwas immediately carried into effect, was given to destroy all dogs andcats. But this plan proved prejudicial rather than the reverse, as thebodies of the poor animals, most of which were drowned in the Thames, being washed ashore, produced a horrible and noxious effluvium, supposedto contribute materially to the propagation of the distemper. 

No precautionary measure was neglected; but it may be doubted whetherany human interference could have averted the severity of the scourge, which, though its progress might be checked for a few days by attention, or increased in the same ratio by neglect, would in the end haveunquestionably fulfilled its mission. The College of Physicians, by theking's command, issued simple and intelligible directions, in the mothertongue, for the sick. Certain of their number, amongst whom was thereader's acquaintance, Doctor Hodges, were appointed to attend theinfected; and two out of the Court of Aldermen were required to see thatthey duly executed their dangerous office. Public prayers and a generalfast were likewise enjoined. But Heaven seemed deaf to the supplicationsof the doomed inhabitants--their prayers being followed by a fearfulincrease of deaths. A vast crowd was collected within Saint Paul's tohear a sermon preached by Doctor Sheldon, Archbishop of Canterbury, --aprelate greatly distinguished during the whole course of the visitation, by his unremitting charity and attention to the sick; and before thediscourse was concluded, several fell down within the sacred walls, and, on being conveyed to their own homes, were found to be infected. On thefollowing day, too, many others who had been present were seized withthe disorder. 

A fresh impulse was given to the pestilence from an unlooked for cause. It has been mentioned that the shutting up of houses and seclusion ofthe sick were regarded as an intolerable grievance, and though most werecompelled to submit to it, some few resisted, and tumults anddisturbances ensued. As the plague increased, these disturbances becamemore frequent, and the mob always taking part against the officers, theywere frequently interrupted in the execution of their duty. 

About this time a more serious affray than usual occurred, attended-withloss of life and other unfortunate consequences, which it may be worthwhile to relate, as illustrative of the peculiar state of the times. Thewife of a merchant, named Barcroft, residing in Lothbury, being attackedby the plague, the husband, fearing his house would be shut up, withheldall information from the examiners and searchers. His wife died, andimmediately afterwards one of his children was attacked. Still herefused to give notice. The matter, however, got wind. The searchersarrived at night, and being refused admittance, they broke into thehouse. Finding undoubted evidence of infection, they ordered it to beclosed, stationed a watchman at the door, and marked it with the fatalsign. Barcroft remonstrated against their proceedings, but in vain. Theytold him he might think himself well off that he was not carried beforethe Lord Mayor, who would undoubtedly send him to Ludgate; and withother threats to the like effect, they departed. 

The unfortunate man's wife and child were removed the following night inthe dead-cart, and, driven half-mad by grief and terror, he broke openthe door of his dwelling, and, plunging a sword in the watchman'sbreast, who opposed his flight, gained the street. A party of the watchhappened to be passing at the time, and the fugitive was instantlysecured. He made a great clamour, however, --calling to his neighboursand the bystanders to rescue him, and in another moment the watch wasbeaten off, and Barcroft placed on a post, whence he harangued hispreservers on the severe restraints imposed upon the citizens, urgingthem to assist in throwing open the doors of all infected houses, andallowing free egress to their inmates. 

Greedily listening to this insane counsel, the mob resolved to act uponit. Headed by the merchant, they ran down Thread-needle-street, and, crossing Stock's Market, burst open several houses in Bearbinder-lane, and drove away the watchmen. One man, more courageous than the others, tried to maintain his post, and was so severely handled by hisassailants, that he died a few days afterwards of the injuries he hadreceived. Most of those who had been imprisoned within their dwellingsimmediately issued forth, and joining the mob, which received freshrecruits each moment, started on the same errand. 

Loud shouts were now raised of--"Open the doors! No plague prisoners! Noplague prisoners!" and the mob set off along the Poultry. They halted, however, before the Great Conduit, near the end of Bucklersbury, andopposite Mercer's Hall, because they perceived a company of theTrain-bands advancing to meet them. A council of war was held, and manyof the rabble were disposed to fly; but Barcroft again urged them toproceed, and they were unexpectedly added by Solomon Eagle, who, bursting through their ranks, with his brazier on his head, crying, "Awake! sleepers, awake! the plague is at your doors! awake!" speededtowards the Train-bands, scattering sparks of fire as he pursued hisswift career. The mob instantly followed, and, adding their shouts tohis outcries, dashed on with such fury that the Train-bands did not dareto oppose them, and, after a slight and ineffectual resistance, were putto rout. 

Barcroft, who acted as leader, informed them that there was a house inWood-street shut up, and the crowd accompanied him thither. In a fewminutes they had reached Bloundel's shop, but finding no one onguard--for the watchman, guessing their errand, had taken to hisheels--they smeared over the fatal cross and inscription with a pail ofmud gathered from the neighbouring kennel, and then broke open the door. The grocer and his apprentice hearing the disturbance, and being greatlyalarmed at it, hurried to the shop, and found it full of people. 

"You are at liberty Mr. Bloundel, " cried the merchant, who wasacquainted with the grocer. "We are determined no longer to let ourfamilies be imprisoned at the pleasure of the Lord Mayor and aldermen. We mean to break open all the plague houses, and set free theirinmates. "

"For Heaven's sake, consider what you are about, Mr. Barcroft, " criedthe grocer. "My house has been closed for nearly a month. Nay, as my sonhas entirely recovered, and received his certificate of health fromDoctor Hodges, it would have been opened in three days hence by theofficers; so that I have suffered all the inconvenience of theconfinement, and can speak to it. It is no doubt very irksome, and maybe almost intolerable to persons of an impatient temperament: but Ifirmly believe it is the only means to check the progress of contagion. Listen to me, Mr. Barcroft--listen to me, good friends, and hesitatebefore you violate laws which have been made expressly to meet thisterrible emergency. "

Here he was checked by loud groans and upbraidings from the bystanders. 

"He tells you himself that the period of his confinement is just over, "cried Barcroft. "It is plain he has no interest in the matter, exceptthat he would have others suffer as he has done. Heed him not, myfriends; but proceed with the good work. Liberate the poor plagueprisoners. Liberate them. On! on!"

"Forbear, rash men" cried Bloundel, in an authoritative voice. "In thename of those you are bound to obey, I command you to desist. "

"Command us!" cried one of the bystanders, raising his staff in amenacing manner. "Is this your gratitude for the favour we have justconferred upon you? Command us, forsooth! You had better repeat theorder, and see how it will be obeyed. "

"I _do_ repeat it, " rejoined the grocer, firmly. "In the Lord Mayor'sname, I command you to desist, and return to your homes. "

The man would have struck him with his staff, if he had not been himselffelled to the ground by Leonard. This was the signal for greateroutrage. The grocer and his apprentice were instantly assailed byseveral others of the mob, who, leaving them both on the floor coveredwith bruises, helped themselves to all they could lay hands on in theshop, and then quitted the premises. 

It is scarcely necessary to track their course further; and it may besufficient to state, that they broke open upwards of fifty houses indifferent streets. Many of the plague-stricken joined them, and severalhalf-naked creatures were found dead in the streets on the followingmorning. Two houses in Blackfriars-lane were set on fire, and theconflagration was with difficulty checked; nor was it until late on thefollowing day that the mob could be entirely dispersed. The originatorof the disturbance, Barcroft, after a desperate resistance, was shotthrough the head by a constable. 

The result of this riot, as will be easily foreseen, was greatly toincrease the pestilence; and many of those who had been most active init perished in prison of the distemper. Far from being discouraged bythe opposition offered to their decrees, the city authorities enforcedthem with greater rigour than ever, and, doubling the number of thewatch, again shut up all those houses which had been broken open duringthe late tumult. 

Bloundel received a visit from the Lord Mayor, Sir John Lawrence, who, having been informed of his conduct, came to express his high approvalof it, offering to remit the few days yet unexpired of his quarantine. The grocer, however, declined the offer, and with renewed expressions ofapprobation, Sir John Lawrence took his leave. 

Three days afterwards, the Examiner of Health pronounced the grocer'shouse free from infection. The fatal mark was obliterated from the door;the shutters were unfastened; and Bloundel resumed his business asusual. Words are inadequate to describe the delight that filled thebreast of every member of his family, on their first meeting after theirlong separation. It took place in the room adjoining the shop. Mrs. Bloundel received the joyful summons from Leonard, and, on descendingwith her children, found her husband and her son Stephen anxiouslyexpecting her. Scarcely able to make up her mind as to which of the twoshe should embrace first, Mrs. Bloundel was decided by the palecountenance of her son, and rushing towards him, she strained him to herbreast, while Amabel flew to her father's arms. The grocer could notrepress his tears; but they were tears of joy, and that night'shappiness made him ample amends for all the anxiety he had recentlyundergone. 

"Well, Stephen, my dear child, " said his mother, as soon as the firsttumult of emotion had subsided, --"well, Stephen, " she said, smiling athim through her tears, and almost smothering him with kisses, "you arenot so much altered as I expected; and I do not think, if I had had thecare of you, I could have nursed you better myself. You owe your fathera second life, and we all owe him the deepest gratitude for the care hehas taken of you. "

"I can never be sufficiently grateful for his kindness, " returnedStephen, affectionately. 

"Give thanks to the beneficent Being who has preserved you from thisgreat danger, my son, not to me, " returned Bloundel. "The first momentsof our reunion should be worthily employed. "

So saying, he summoned the household, and, for the first time for amonth, the whole family party assembled, as before, at prayer. Neverwere thanksgivings more earnestly, more devoutly uttered. All arose withbright and cheerful countenances; and even Blaize seemed to have shakenoff his habitual dread of the pestilence. As he retired with Patience, he observed to her, "Master Stephen looks quite well, though a littlethinner. I must ascertain from him the exact course of treatment pursuedby his father. I wonder whether Mr. Bloundel would nurse _me_ if I wereto be suddenly seized with the distemper?"

"If he wouldn't, I _would_, " replied Patience. 

"Thank you, thank you, " replied Blaize. "I begin to think we shall getthrough it. I shall go out to-morrow and examine the bills of mortality, and see what progress the plague is making. I am all anxiety to know. Imust get a fresh supply of medicine, too. My private store is quitegone, except three of my favourite rufuses, which I shall take before Igo to bed to-night. Unluckily, my purse is as empty as my phials. "

"I can lend you a little money, " said Patience. "I haven't touched mylast year's wages. They are quite at your service. "

"You are too good, " replied Blaize; "but I won't decline the offer. Iheard a man crying a new anti-pestilential elixir, as he passed thehouse yesterday. I must find him out and buy a bottle. Besides, I mustcall on my friend Parkhurst, the apothecary. --You are a good girl, Patience, and I'll marry you as soon as the plague ceases. "

"I have something else to give you, " rejoined Patience. "This little bagcontains a hazel-nut, from which I have picked the kernel, and filledits place with quicksilver, stopping the hole with wax. Wear it roundyour neck, and you will find it a certain preservative against thepestilence. "

"Who told you of this remedy?" asked Blaize, taking the bag. 

"Your mother, " returned Patience. 

"I wonder I never heard of it, " said the porter. 

"She wouldn't mention it to you, because the doctor advised her not toput such matters into your head, " replied Patience. "But I couldn't helpindulging you. Heigho! I hope the plague will soon be over. "

"It won't be over for six months, " rejoined Blaize, shaking his head. "Iread in a little book, published in 1593, in Queen Elizabeth's reign, and written by Simon Kelway, 'that when little children flock together, and pretend that some of their number are dead, solemnizing the burialin a mournful sort, it is a certain token that a great mortality is athand. ' This I have myself seen more than once. Again, just before thegreat sickness of 1625, the churchyard wall of St. Andrew's, Holborn, fell down. I need not tell you that the same thing occurred after thefrost this winter. "

"I heard of it, " replied Patience: "but I did not know it was a badsign. "

"It is a dreadful sign, " returned Blaize, with a shudder "The thought ofit brings back my old symptoms. I must have a supper to guard againstinfection--a slice of toasted bread, sprinkled with, vinegar, andpowdered with nutmeg. "

And chattering thus, they proceeded to the kitchen. 

Before supper could be served, Dr. Hodges made his appearance. He wasdelighted to see the family assembled together again, and expressed ahearty wish that they might never more be divided. He watched Amabel andLeonard carefully, and seemed annoyed that the former rather shunnedthan favoured the regards of the apprentice. 

Leonard, too, looked disconcerted; and though he was in possession ofhis mistress's promise, he did not like to reclaim it. During the wholeof the month, he had been constantly on the watch, and had scarcelyslept at night, so anxious was he to prevent the possibility of anycommunication taking place between Rochester and his mistress. But, inspite of all his caution, it was possible he might be deceived. And whenon this, their first meeting, she returned his anxious gaze with avertedlooks, he felt all his jealous misgivings return. 

Supper, meanwhile, proceeded. Doctor Hodges was in excellent spirits, and drank a bottle of old sack with great relish. Overcome by the sightof his wife and children, the grocer abandoned himself to his feelings. As to his wife, she could scarcely contain herself, but wept and laughedby turns--now embracing her husband, now her son, between whom she hadplaced herself. Nor did she forget Doctor Hodges; and such was theexuberance of her satisfaction, that when the repast was ended, shearose, and, flinging her arms about his neck, termed him the preserverof her son. 

"If any one is entitled to that appellation it is his father, " repliedHodges, "and I may say, that in all my experience I have never witnessedsuch generous self-devotion as Mr. Bloundel has exhibited towards hisson. You must now be satisfied, madam, that no person can so well judgewhat is proper for the safety of his family as your husband. "

"I never doubted it, sir, " replied Mrs. Bloundel. 

"I must apprise you, then, that he has conceived a plan by which hetrusts to secure you and his children and household from any futureattack, " returned Hodges. 

"I care not what it is, so it does not separate me from him, " repliedMrs. Bloundel. 

"It does not, " replied the grocer. "It will knit us more closelytogether than we have yet been. I mean to shut up my house, havingpreviously stored it with provisions for a twelvemonth, and shall sufferno member of my family to stir forth as long as the plague endures. "

"I am ready to remain within doors, if it continues twenty years, "replied his wife. "But how long do you think it _will_ last, doctor?"

"Till next December, I have no doubt, " returned Hodges. 

"So long?" exclaimed Amabel. 

"Ay, so long, " repeated the doctor. "It has scarcely begun now. Yourfather is right to adopt these precautions. It is the only way to insurethe safety of his family. "

"But----" cried Amabel. 

"I am resolved, " interrupted Bloundel, peremptorily. "Who ever leavesthe house--if but for a moment--never returns. "

"And when do you close it, father?" asked Amabel. 

"A week hence, " replied the grocer; "as soon as I have laid in asufficient stock of provisions. "

"And am I not to leave the house for a year?" cried Amabel, with adissatisfied look. 

"Why should you wish to leave it?" asked her father, curiously. 

"Ay, why?" repeated Leonard, in a low tone. "I shall be here. "

Amabel seemed confused, and looked from her father to Leonard. Theformer, however, did not notice her embarrassment, but observed toHodges--"I shall begin to victual the house to-morrow. "

"Amabel, " whispered Leonard, "you told me if I claimed your hand in amonth, you would yield it to me. I require the fulfilment of yourpromise. "

"Give me till to-morrow, " she replied, distractedly. 

"She has seen Rochester, " muttered the apprentice, turning away. 

II. 

IN WHAT MANNER THE GROCER VICTUALLED HIS HOUSE. 

Leonard Holt was wrong in his suspicions. Amabel had neither seen norheard from Rochester. But, if the truth must be told, he was never outof her mind, and she found, to her cost, that the heart will not becontrolled. Convinced of her noble lover's perfidy, and aware she wasacting wrongfully in cherishing a passion for him, after the exposure ofhis base designs towards herself, no reasoning of which she was capablecould banish him from her thoughts, or enable her to transfer heraffections to the apprentice. 

This conflict of feeling produced its natural result. She becamethoughtful and dejected--was often in tears--had no appetite--and couldscarcely rouse herself sufficiently to undertake any sort of employment. Her mother watched her with great anxiety, and feared--though she soughtto disguise it from herself--what was the real cause of her despondency. 

Things were in this position at the end of the month, and it occasionedno surprise to Mrs. Bloundel, though it afflicted her deeply, to findthat Amabel sedulously avoided the apprentice's regards on their firstmeeting. When Doctor Hodges was gone, and the rest of the family hadretired, she remarked to her husband, "Before you shut up the house asyou propose, I should, wish one important matter settled. "

The grocer inquired what she meant. 

"I should wish to have Amabel married, " was the answer. 

"Married!" exclaimed Bloundel, in astonishment. "To whom?"

"To Leonard Holt. "

Bloundel could scarcely repress his displeasure. 

"It will be time enough to talk of that a year hence, " he answered. 

"I don't think so, " returned his wife; "and now, since the proper timefor the disclosure of the secret has arrived, I must tell you that thegallant who called himself Maurice Wyvil, and whom you so much dreaded, was no other than the Earl of Rochester. "

"Rochester!" echoed the grocer, while an angry flush stained his cheek;"has that libertine dared to enter my house?"

"Ay, and more than once, " replied Mrs. Bloundel. 

"Indeed!" cried her husband, with difficulty controlling hisindignation. "When was he here?--tell me quickly. "

His wife then proceeded to relate all that had occurred, and he listenedwith profound attention to her recital. At its close, he arose and pacedthe chamber for some time in great agitation. 

At length he suddenly paused, and, regarding his wife with greatsternness, observed, in a severe tone, "You have done very wrong inconcealing this from me, Honora--very wrong. "

"If I have erred, it was to spare you uneasiness, " returned Mrs. Bloundel, bursting into tears. "Doctor Hodges agreed with me that it wasbetter not to mention the subject while you had so many other anxietiespressing upon you. "

"I have a stout heart, and a firm reliance on the goodness of Heaven, which will enable me to bear up against most evils, " returned thegrocer. "But on this point I ought, under any circumstances, to havebeen consulted. And I am greatly surprised that Doctor Hodges shouldadvise the contrary. "

"He was influenced, like myself, by the kindliest feelings towards you, "sobbed Mrs. Bloundel. 

"Well, well, I will not reproach you further, " returned the grocer, somewhat moved by her tears. "I have no doubt you conceived you wereacting for the best. But I must caution you against such conduct for thefuture. " After a pause, he added, "Is it your opinion that our poordeluded child still entertains any regard for this profligate nobleman?"

"I am sure she does, " replied Mrs. Bloundel; "and it is from thatconviction that I so strongly urge the necessity of marrying her toLeonard Holt. "

"I will never compel her to do anything to endanger her futurehappiness, " returned the grocer. "She must not marry Leonard Holtwithout loving him. It is better to risk an uncertain evil, than to rushupon a certain one. "

"Then I won't answer for the consequences, " replied his wife. 

"What!" cried Bloundel; "am I to understand you have no reliance onAmabel? Has all our care been thrown away?"

"I do not distrust her, " returned Mrs. Bloundel; "but consider whom shehas to deal with. She is beset by the handsomest and most fascinatingman of the day--by one understood to be practised in all the arts mostdangerous to our sex--and a nobleman to boot. Some allowance must bemade for her. "

"I will make none, " rejoined Bloundel, austerely. "She has been taughtto resist temptation in whatever guise it may present itself; and if theprinciples I have endeavoured to implant within her breast had foundlodgment there, she _would_ have resisted it. I am deeply grieved tofind this is not the case, and that she must trust to others forprotection, when she ought to be able to defend herself. "

The subject was not further discussed, and the grocer and his wifeshortly afterwards retired to rest. 

On the following morning, Bloundel remarked to the apprentice as theystood together in the shop, "Leonard, you are aware I am about to shutup my house. Before doing so, I must make certain needful arrangements. I will not disguise from you that I should prefer your remaining withme, but at the same time I beg you distinctly to understand that I willnot detain you against your will. Your articles are within two months ofexpiring; and, if you desire it, I will deliver them to you to-morrow, and release you from the rest of your time. "

"I do not desire it, sir, " replied Leonard; "I will remain as long as Ican be serviceable to you. "

"Take time for reflection, " rejoined his master, kindly. "In allprobability, it will be a long confinement, and you may repent, when toolate, having subjected yourself to it. "

"Last month's experience has taught me what I have to expect, " remarkedLeonard, with a smile. "My mind is made up, I will stay with you. "

"I am glad of it, " returned Bloundel, "and now I have something furtherto say to you. My wife has acquainted me with the daring attempt of theEarl of Rochester to carry off Amabel. "

"Has my mistress, also, told you of my attachment to your daughter?"demanded Leonard, trembling, in spite of his efforts to maintain a showof calmness. 

Bloundel nodded an affirmative. 

"And of Amabel's promise to bestow her hand upon me, if I claimed it atthe month's end?" continued the apprentice. 

"No!" replied the grocer, a good deal surprised--"I heard of no suchpromise. Nor was I aware the matter had gone so far. But have youclaimed it?"

"I have, " replied Leonard; "but she declined giving an answer tillto-day. "

"We will have it, then, at once, " cried Bloundel "Come with me to her. "

So saying, he led the way to the inner room, where they found Amabel andher mother. At the sight of Leonard, the former instantly cast down hereyes. 

"Amabel, " said her father, in a tone of greater severity than he hadever before used towards her, "all that has passed is known to me. Ishall take another and more fitting opportunity to speak to you on yourill-advised conduct. I am come for a different purpose. You have givenLeonard Holt a promise (I need not tell you of what nature), and heclaims its fulfilment. "

"If he insists upon my compliance, " replied Amabel, in a tremulousvoice, "I must obey. But it will make me wretched. "

"Then I at once release you, " replied Leonard. "I value your happinessfar more than my own. "

"You deserve better treatment, Leonard, " said Bloundel; "and I am sorrymy daughter cannot discern what is for her good. Let us hope that timewill work a change in your favour. "

"No, " replied the apprentice, bitterly; "I will no longer delude myselfwith any such vain expectation. "

"Amabel, " observed the grocer, "as your father--as your wellwisher--Ishould desire to see you wedded to Leonard. But I have told your mother, and now tell you, that I will not control your inclinations, and willonly attempt to direct you so far as I think likely to be conducive toyour happiness. On another point, I must assume a very different tone. You can no longer plead ignorance of the designs of the depraved personwho besets you. You may not be able to forget him--but you can avoidhim. If you see him alone again--if but for a moment--I cast you off forever. Yes, for ever, " he repeated, with stern emphasis. 

"I will never voluntarily see him again, " replied Amabel, tremblingly. 

"You have heard my determination, " rejoined her father. "Do you stilladhere to your resolution of remaining with me, Leonard?" he added, turning to the apprentice. "If what has just passed makes any alterationin your wishes, state so, frankly. "

"I will stay, " replied Leonard. 

"There will be one advantage, which I did not foresee, in closing myhouse, " remarked the grocer aside to the apprentice. "It willeffectually keep away this libertine earl. "

"Perhaps so, " replied the other. "But I have more faith in my ownvigilance than in bolts and bars. "

Bloundel and Leonard then returned to the shop, where the formerimmediately began to make preparations for storing his house; and in theprosecution of his scheme he was greatly aided by the apprentice. 

The grocer's dwelling, as has been stated, was large and commodious. Itwas three stories high; and beneath the ground-floor there were kitchensand extensive cellars. Many of the rooms were spacious, and hadcuriously carved fireplaces, walls pannelled with fine brown oak, largepresses, and cupboards. 

In the yard, at the back of the house, there was a pump, from whichexcellent water was obtained. There were likewise three large cisterns, supplied from the New River. Not satisfied with this, and anxious toobtain water in which no infected body could have lain, or clothes havebeen washed, Bloundel had a large tank placed within the cellar, andconnecting it by pipes with the pump, he contrived an ingenious machine, by which he could work the latter from within the house--thus makingsure of a constant supply of water direct from the spring. 

He next addressed himself to the front of the house, where he fixed apulley, with a rope and hook attached to it, to the beam above one ofthe smaller bay windows on the second story. By this means, he could letdown a basket or any other article into the street, or draw up whateverhe desired; and as he proposed using this outlet as the sole means ofcommunication with the external world when his house was closed, he hada wooden shutter made in the form of a trap-door, which he could openand shut at pleasure. 

Here it was his intention to station himself at certain hours of theday, and whenever he held any communication below, to flash off apistol, so that the smoke of the powder might drive back the air, andpurify any vapour that found entrance of its noxious particles. 

He laid down to himself a number of regulations, which will be moreeasily shown and more clearly understood, on arriving at the period whenhis plans came to be in full operation. To give an instance, however--ifa letter should be conveyed to him by means of the pulley, he proposedto steep it in a solution of vinegar and sulphur; and when dried andotherwise fumigated, to read it at a distance by the help of strongglasses. 

In regard to provisions, after a careful calculation, he bought upwardsof three thousand pounds' weight of hard sea-biscuits, similar to thosenow termed captain's biscuits, and had them stowed away in hogsheads. Henext ordered twenty huge casks of the finest flour, which he had packedup with the greatest care, as if for a voyage to Barbadoes or Jamaica. As these were brought in through the yard an accident had well-nighoccurred which might have proved fatal to him. While superintending thelabours of Leonard and Blaize, who were rolling the casks into thehouse--having stowed away as many as he conveniently could in the upperpart of the premises--he descended to the cellar, and, opening a door atthe foot of a flight of steps leading from the yard, called to them tolower the remaining barrels with ropes below. In the hurry, Blaizerolled a cask towards the open door, and in another instant it wouldhave fallen upon the grocer, and perhaps have crushed him, but for theinterposition of Leonard. Bloundel made no remark at the time; but henever forgot the service rendered him by the apprentice. 

To bake the bread required an oven, and he accordingly built one in thegarret, laying in a large stock of wood for fuel. Neither did he neglectto provide himself with two casks of meal. 

But the most important consideration was butcher's meat; and for thispurpose he went to Rotherhithe, where the plague had not yet appeared, and agreed with a butcher to kill him four fat bullocks, and pickle andbarrel them as if for sea stores. He likewise directed the man toprovide six large barrels of pickled pork, on the same understanding. These were landed at Queenhithe, and brought up to Wood-street, so thatthey passed for newly-landed grocery. 

Hams and bacon forming part of his own trade, he wrote to certainfarmers with whom he was in the habit of dealing, to send him up anunlimited supply of flitches and gammons; and his orders being promptlyand abundantly answered, he soon found he had more bacon than he couldpossibly consume. He likewise laid in a good store of tongues, hungbeet, and other dried meats. 

As to wine, he already had a tolerable stock; but he increased it byhalf a hogshead of the best canary he could procure; two casks ofmalmsey, each containing twelve gallons; a quarter-cask of Malaga sack;a runlet of muscadine; two small runlets of aqua vitae; twenty gallonsof aniseed water; and two eight-gallon runlets of brandy. To this headded six hogsheads of strongly-hopped Kent ale, calculated for keeping, which he placed in a cool cellar, together with three hogsheads of beer, for immediate use. Furthermore, he procured a variety of distilledwaters for medicinal purposes, amongst which he included a couple ofdozen of the then fashionable and costly preparation, denominatedplague-water. 

As, notwithstanding all his precautions, it was not impossible that someof his household might be attacked by the distemper, he took care toprovide proper remedies, and, to Blaize's infinite delight, furnishedhimself with mithridates, Venice treacle, diascorium, the pill rufus(oh! how the porter longed to have the key of the medicine chest!), London treacle, turpentine, and other matters. He likewise collected anumber of herbs and simples; as Virginian snakeweed, contrajerva, pestilence-wort, angelica, elecampane, zedoary, tormentil, valerian, lovage, devils-bit, dittany, master-wort, rue, sage, ivy-berries, andwalnuts; together with bole ammoniac, terra sigillata, bezoar-water, oilof sulphur, oil of vitriol, and other compounds. His store of remedieswas completed by a tun of the best white-wine vinegar, and a dozen jarsof salad-oil. 

Regulating his supplies by the provisions he had laid in, he purchased asufficient stock of coals and fagots to last him during the whole periodof his confinement; and he added a small barrel of gunpowder, and a likequantity of sulphur for fumigation. 

His eatables would not have been complete without cheese; and hetherefore ordered about six hundredweight from Derbyshire, Wiltshire, and Leicestershire, besides a couple of large old cheeses fromRostherne, in Cheshire--even then noted for the best dairies in thewhole county. Several tubs of salted butter were sent him out ofBerkshire, and a few pots, from Suffolk. 

It being indispensable, considering the long period he meant to closehis house, to provide himself and his family with every necessary, heprocured a sufficient stock of wearing apparel, hose, shoes and boots. Spice, dried fruit, and other grocery articles, were not required, because he already possessed them. Candles also formed an article of histrade, and lamp-oil; but he was recommended by Doctor Hodges, from afear of the scurvy, to provide a plentiful supply of lemon and limejuice. 

To guard against accident, he also doubly stocked his house with glass, earthenware, and every article liable to breakage. He destroyed allvermin, such as rats and mice, by which the house was infested; and theonly live creatures he would suffer to be kept were a few poultry. Hehad a small hutch constructed near the street-door, to be used by thewatchman he meant to employ; and he had the garrets fitted up with bedsto form an hospital, if any part of the family should be seized with thedistemper, so that the sick might be sequestered from the sound. 

 * * * * *

III. 

THE QUACK DOCTORS. 

Patience, it may be remembered, had promised Blaize to give him herearnings to enable him to procure a fresh supply of medicine, and abouta week after he had received the trifling amount (for he had been soconstantly employed by the grocer that he had no opportunity of gettingout before), he sallied forth to visit a neighbouring apothecary, namedParkhurst, from whom he had been in the habit of purchasing drugs, andwho occupied a small shop not far from the grocer's, on the oppositeside of the street. Parkhurst appeared overjoyed to see him, and, without giving him time to prefer his own request, inquired after hismaster's family--whether they were all well, especially fair MistressAmabel--and, further, what was the meaning of the large supplies ofprovision which he saw daily conveyed to the premises? Blaize shook hishead at the latter question, and for some time refused to answer it. Butbeing closely pressed by Parkhurst, he admitted that his master wasabout to shut up his house. 

"Shut up his house!" exclaimed Parkhurst. "I never heard of such apreposterous idea. If he does so, not one of you will come out alive. But I should hope that he will be dissuaded from his rash design. "

"Dissuaded!" echoed Blaize. "You don't know my master. He's as obstinateas a mule when he takes a thing into his head. Nothing will turn him. Besides, Doctor Hodges sanctions and even recommends the plan. "

"I have no opinion of Doctor Hodges, " sneered the apothecary. "He is notfit to hold a candle before a learned friend of mine, a physician, whois now in that room. The person I speak of thoroughly understands thepestilence, and never fails to cure every case that comes before him. Noshutting up houses with him. He is in possession of an infallibleremedy. "

"Indeed!" exclaimed Blaize, pricking up his ears. "What is his name?"

"His name!" cried Parkhurst, with a puzzled look. "How strange it shouldslip my memory! Ah, now I recollect. It is Doctor Calixtus Bottesham. "

"A singular name, truly, " remarked Blaize; "but it sounds like that of aclever man. "

"Doctor Calixtus Bottesham is a wonderful man, " returned the apothecary. "I have never met with his like. I would trumpet forth his meritsthrough the whole city, but that it would ruin my trade. The plague isour harvest, as my friend Chowles, the coffin-maker, says, and it willnot do to stop it--ha! ha!"

"It is too serious a subject to laugh at, " returned Blaize, gravely. "But are the doctor's fees exorbitant?"

"To the last degree, " replied Parkhurst. "I am afraid to state how muchhe asks. "

"I fear I shall not be able to consult him, then, " said Blaize, turningover the coin in his pocket; "and yet I should greatly like to do so. "

"Have no fear on that score, " returned the apothecary. "I have been ableto render him an important service, and he will do anything for me. Heshall give you his advice gratis. "

"Thank you! thank you!" cried Blaize, transported with delight. 

"Wait here a moment, and I will ascertain whether he will see you, "replied Parkhurst. 

So saying, he quitted the porter, who amused himself during his absenceby studying the labels affixed to the jars and bottles on the shelves. He had much ado to restrain himself from opening some of them, andtasting their contents. 

Full a quarter of an hour elapsed before the apothecary appeared. 

"I am sorry to have detained you so long, " he said; "but I had moredifficulty with the doctor than I expected, and for some time he refusedto see you on any terms, because he has a violent antipathy to DoctorHodges, whom he regards as a mere pretender, and whose patient heconceives you to be. "

"I am not Doctor Hodges' patient, " returned Blaize; "and I regard him asa pretender myself. "

"That opinion will recommend you to Doctor Bottesham, " repliedParkhurst; "and since I have smoothed the way for you, you will find himvery affable and condescending. He has often heard me speak of yourmaster; and if it were not for his dislike of Doctor Hodges, whom hemight accidentally encounter, he would call upon him. "

"I wish I could get my master to employ him instead of the other, " saidBlaize. 

"I wish so too, " cried Parkhurst, eagerly. "Do you think it could bemanaged?"

"I fear not, " returned Blaize. 

"There would be no harm in making the trial, " replied Parkhurst. "Butyou shall now see the learned gentleman. I ought to apprise you that hehas two friends with him--one a young gallant, named Hawkswood, whom hehas recently cured of the distemper, and who is so much attached to himthat he never leaves him; the other, a doctor, like himself, namedMartin Furbisher, who always accompanies him in his visits to hispatients, and prepares his mixtures for him. You must not be surprisedat their appearance. And now come with me. "

With this, he led the way into a small room at the back of the shop, where three personages were seated at the table, with a flask of wineand glasses before them. Blaize detected Doctor Bottesham at a glance. He was an ancient-looking man, clad in a suit of rusty black, over whichwas thrown a velvet robe, very much soiled and faded, but originallytrimmed with fur, and lined with yellow silk. His powers of visionappeared to be feeble, for he wore a large green shade over his eyes, and a pair of spectacles of the same colour. A venerable white bearddescended almost to his waist. His head was protected by a long flowinggrey wig, over which he wore a black velvet cap. His shoulders were highand round, his back bent, and he evidently required support when hemoved, as a crutch-headed staff was reared against his chair. On hisleft was a young, handsome, and richly-attired gallant, answering to theapothecary's description of Hawkswood; and on the right sat a stoutpersonage precisely habited like himself, except that he wore abroad-leaved hat, which completely overshadowed his features. Notwithstanding this attempt at concealment, it was easy to perceivethat Doctor Furbisher's face was covered with scars, that he had arubicund nose, studded with carbuncles, and a black patch over his lefteye. 

"Is this the young man who desires to consult me?" asked Doctor CalixtusBottesham, in the cracked and quavering voice of old age, of Parkhurst. 

"It is, " replied the apothecary, respectfully. "Go forward, " he added toBlaize, "and speak for yourself. "

"What ails you?" pursued Bottesham, gazing at him through hisspectacles. "You look strong and hearty. "

"So I am, learned sir, " replied Blaize, bowing to the ground; "butunderstanding from Mr. Parkhurst that you have an infallible remedyagainst the plague, I would gladly procure it from you, as, if I shouldbe attacked, I may not have an opportunity of consulting you. "

"Why not?" demanded Bottesham. "I will come to you if you send for me. "

"Because, " replied Blaize, after a moment's hesitation, "my master isabout to shut up his house, and no one will be allowed to go forth, orto enter it, till the pestilence is at an end. "

"Your master must be mad to think of such a thing, " rejoined Bottesham. "What say you, brother Furbisher?--is that the way to keep off theplague?"

"Gallipots of Galen! no, " returned the other; "it is rather the way toinvite its assaults. "

"When does your master talk of putting this fatal design--for fatal itwill be to him and all his household--into execution?" demandedBottesham. 

"Very shortly, I believe, " replied Blaize. "He meant to begin on thefirst of June, but as the pestilence is less violent than it was, DoctorHodges has induced him to defer his purpose for a few days. "

"Doctor Hodges!" exclaimed Bottesham, contemptuously. "It was anunfortunate day for your master when he admitted that sack-drinkingimpostor into his house. "

"I have no great opinion of his skill, " replied Blaize, "but, nevertheless, it must be admitted that he cured Master Stephen in awonderful manner. "

"Pshaw!" exclaimed Bottesham, "that was mere accident. I heard theparticulars of the case from Parkhurst, and am satisfied the youth wouldhave recovered without his aid. But what a barbarian Mr. Bloundel mustbe to think of imprisoning his family in this way!"

"He certainly does not consult my inclinations in the matter, " returnedBlaize. 

"Nor those of his wife and daughter, I should imagine, " continuedBottesham. "How do _they_ like it?"

"I cannot exactly say, " answered Blaize. "What a dreadful thing it wouldbe if I should be attacked by the plague, and no assistance could beprocured!"

"It would be still more dreadful if so angelic a creature as Bloundel'sdaughter is represented to be--for I have never seen her--should be soseized, " observed Bottesham. "I feel so much interested about her that Iwould do anything to preserve her from the fate with which she ismenaced. "

"Were it not inconsistent with your years, learned sir, I might suspectyou of a tenderer feeling towards her, " observed Blaize, archly. "But, in good sooth, her charms are so extraordinary, that I should not besurprised at any effect they might produce. "

"They would produce no effect on me, " replied Bottesham. "I am long pastsuch feelings. But in regard to yourself. You say you are afraid of theplague. I will give you an electuary to drive away the panic;" and heproduced a small jar, and handed it to the porter. "It is composed ofconserve of roses, gillyflowers, borage, candied citron, powder of_laetificans Galeni_, Roman zedoary, doronicum, and saffron. You musttake about the quantity of a large nutmeg, morning and evening. "

"You make me for ever your debtor, learned sir, " rejoined Blaize. "Whata charming mixture!"

"I will also add my remedy, " said Furbisher. "It is a powder compoundedof crabs' eyes, burnt hartshorn, the black tops of crabs' claws, thebone from a stag's heart, unicorn's horn, and salt of vipers. You musttake one or two drams--not more--in a glass of hot posset-drink, whenyou go to bed, and swallow another draught of the same potion to wash itdown. "

"I will carefully observe your directions, " replied Blaize, thankfullyreceiving the powder. 

"Of all things, " said Bottesham, claiming the porter's attention bytapping him on the head with his cane, "take care never to be withoutvinegar. It is the grand specific, not merely against the plague, butagainst all disorders. It is food and physic, meat and medicine, drinkand julep, cordial and antidote. If you formerly took it as a sauce, nowtake it as a remedy. To the sound it is a preservative from sickness, tothe sick, a restorative to health. It is like the sword which is wornnot merely for ornament, but for defence. Vinegar is my remedy againstthe plague. It is a simple remedy, but an effectual one. I have cured athousand patients with it, and hope to cure a thousand more. Takevinegar with all you eat, and flavour all you drink with it. Has theplague taken away your appetite, vinegar will renew it. Is your throatulcerated, use vinegar as a gargle. Are you disturbed with phlegmatichumours, vinegar will remove them. Is your brain laden with vapours, throw vinegar on a hot shovel, and inhale its fumes, and you will obtaininstantaneous relief. Have you the headache, wet a napkin in vinegar, and apply it to your temples, and the pain will cease. In short, thereis no ailment that vinegar will not cure. It is the grand panacea; andmay be termed the elixir of long life. "

"I wonder its virtues have not been found out before, " observed Blaize, innocently. 

"It is surprising how slow men are in discovering the most obvioustruths, " replied Bottesham. "But take my advice, and never be withoutit. "

"I never will, " returned Blaize. "Heaven be praised, my master has justordered in three tuns. I'll tap one of them directly. "

"That idea of the vinegar remedy is borrowed from Kemp's late treatiseon the pestilence and its cure, " muttered Furbisher. "Before you enterupon the new system, young man, " he added aloud to Blaize, "let merecommend you to fortify your stomach with a glass of canary. "

And pouring out a bumper, he handed it to the porter, who swallowed itat a draught. 

"And now, " said Bottesham, "to return to this mad scheme of yourmaster's--is there no way of preventing it?"

"I am aware of none, " replied Blaize. 

"Bolts and bars!" cried Furbisher, "something must be done for the fairAmabel. We owe it to society not to permit so lovely a creature to bethus immured. What say you, Hawkswood?" he added to the gallant by hisside, who had not hitherto spoken. 

"It would be unpardonable to permit it--quite unpardonable, " repliedthis person. 

"Might not some plan be devised to remove her for a short time, andfrighten him out of his project?" said Bottesham. "I would willinglyassist in such a scheme. I pledge you in a bumper, young man. You appeara trusty servant. "

"I am so accounted, learned sir, " replied Blaize, upon whose brain thewine thus plentifully bestowed began to operate--"and I may add, justlyso. "

"You really will be doing your master a service if you can prevent himfrom committing this folly, " rejoined Bottesham. 

"Let us have a bottle of burnt malmsey, with a few bruised raisins init, Mr. Parkhurst. This poor young man requires support. Be seated, friend. "

With some hesitation, Blaize complied, and while the apothecary went insearch of the wine, he observed to Bottesham, "I would gladly complywith your suggestion, learned sir, if I saw any means of doing so. "

"Could you not pretend to have the plague?" said Bottesham. "I couldthen attend you. "

"I should be afraid of playing such a trick as that, " replied Blaize. "Besides, I do not see what purpose it would answer. "

"It would enable me to get into the house, " returned Bottesham, "andthen I might take measures for Amabel's deliverance. "

"If you merely wish to get into the house, " replied Blaize, "that can beeasily managed. I will admit you this evening. "

"Without your master's knowledge?" asked Bottesham, eagerly. 

"Of course, " returned Blaize. 

"But he has an apprentice?" said the doctor. 

"Oh! you mean Leonard Holt, " replied Blaize. "Yes, we must take care hedoesn't see you. If you come about nine o'clock, he will be engaged withmy master in putting away the things in the shop. "

"I will be punctual, " replied Bottesham, "and will bring DoctorFurbisher with me. We will only stay a few minutes. But here comes theburnt malmsey. Fill the young man's glass, Parkhurst. I will insure youagainst the plague, if you will follow my advice. "

"But will you insure me against my master's displeasure, if he finds meout?" said Blaize. 

"I will provide you with a new one, " returned Bottesham. "You shallserve me if you wish to change your place. "

"That would answer my purpose exactly, " thought Blaize. "I need never beafraid of the plague if I live with him. I will turn over your proposal, learned sir, " he added, aloud. 

After priming him with another bumper of malmsey, Blaise's new friendssuffered him to depart. On returning home, he proceeded to his own room, and feeling unusually drowsy, he threw himself on the bed, and almostinstantly dropped asleep. When he awoke, the fumes of the liquor had, ina great degree, evaporated, and he recalled, with considerableself-reproach, the promise he had given, and would gladly have recalledit, if it had been possible. But it was now not far from the appointedhour, and he momentarily expected the arrival of the two doctors. Theonly thing that consoled him was the store of medicine he had obtained, and, locking it up in his cupboard, he descended to the kitchen. Fortunately, his mother was from home, so that he ran no risk from her;and, finding Patience alone, after some hesitation, he let her into thesecret of his anticipated visitors. She was greatly surprised, andexpressed much uneasiness lest they should be discovered; as, if theywere so, it would be sure to bring them both into trouble. 

"What can they want with Mistress Amabel?" she cried. "I should notwonder if Doctor Calixtus Bottesham, as you call him, turns out a loverin disguise. "

"A lover!" exclaimed Blaize. "Your silly head is always running uponlovers. He's an old man--old enough to be your grandfather, with a longwhite beard, reaching to his waist. He a lover! Mr. Bloundel is muchmore like one. "

"For all that, it looks suspicious, " returned Patience; "and I shallhave my eyes about me on their arrival. "

Shortly after this, Blaize crept cautiously up to the back yard, and, opening the door, found, as he expected, Bottesham and his companion. Motioning them to follow him, he led the way to the kitchen, where theyarrived without observation. Patience eyed the new-comers narrowly, andfelt almost certain, from their appearance and manner, that hersuspicions were correct. All doubts were removed when Bottesham, slipping a purse into her hand, entreated her, on some plea or other, toinduce Amabel to come into the kitchen. At first she hesitated; buthaving a tender heart, inclining her to assist rather than oppose thecourse of any love-affair, her scruples were soon overcome. Accordinglyshe hurried upstairs, and chancing to meet with her young mistress, whowas about to retire to her own chamber, entreated her to come down withher for a moment in the kitchen. Thinking it some unimportant matter, but yet wondering why Patience should appear so urgent, Amabel complied. She was still more perplexed when she saw the two strangers, and wouldhave instantly retired if Bottesham had not detained her. 

"You will pardon the liberty I have taken in sending for you, " he said, "when I explain that I have done so to offer you counsel. "

"I am as much at a loss to understand what counsel you can have tooffer, sir, as to guess why you are here, " she replied. 

"Amabel, " returned Bottesham, in a low tone, but altering his voice, andslightly raising his spectacles so as to disclose his features; "it isI--Maurice Wyvil. "

"Ah!" she exclaimed, in the utmost astonishment. 

"I told you we should meet again, " he rejoined; "and I have kept myword. "

"Think not to deceive me, my lord, " she returned, controlling heremotion by a powerful effort. "I am aware you are not Maurice Wyvil, butthe Earl of Rochester. Your love is as false as your character. MistressMallet is the real object of your regards. You see I am acquainted withyour perfidy. "

"Amabel, you are deceived, " replied Rochester. "On my soul, you are. When I have an opportunity of explaining myself more fully, I will proveto you that I was induced by the king, for an especial purpose, to payfeigned addresses to the lady you have named. But I never loved her. Youalone are the possessor of my heart, and shall be the sharer of mytitle. You shall be Countess of Rochester. "

"Could I believe you?" she cried. 

"You _may_ believe me, " he answered. "Do not blight my hopes and yourown happiness a second time. Your father is about to shut up his housefor a twelvemonth, if the plague lasts so long. This done, we shall meetno more, for access to you will be impossible. Do not hesitate, or youwill for ever rue your irresolution. "

"I know not what to do, " cried Amabel, distractedly. 

"Then I will decide for you, " replied the earl, grasping her hand. "Come!"

While this was passing, Furbisher, or rather, as will be surmised, Pillichody, had taken Blaize aside, and engaged his attention bydilating upon the efficacy of a roasted onion filled with treacle in theexpulsion of the plague. Patience stationed herself near the door, notwith a view of interfering with the lovers, but rather of assistingthem; and at the very moment that the earl seized his mistress's hand, and would have drawn her forward, she ran towards them, and hastilywhispered, "Leonard Holt is coming downstairs. "

"Ah! I am lost!" cried Amabel. 

"Fear nothing, " said the earl. "Keep near me, and I will soon dispose ofhim. "

As he spoke, the apprentice entered the kitchen, and, greatly surprisedby the appearance of the strangers, angrily demanded from Blaize whothey were. 

"They are two doctors come to give me advice respecting the plague, "stammered the porter. 

"How did they get into the house?" inquired Leonard. 

"I let them in through the back door, " replied Blaize. 

"Then let them out by the same way, " rejoined the apprentice. "May I askwhat you are doing here?" he added, to Amabel. 

"What is that to you, fellow?" cried Rochester, in his assumed voice. 

"Much, as you shall find, my lord, " replied the apprentice; "for, inspite of your disguise, I know you. Quit the house instantly with yourcompanion, or I will give the alarm, and Amabel well knows what theconsequences will be. "

"You must go, my lord, " she replied. 

"I will not stir unless you accompany me, " said Rochester. 

"Then I have no alternative, " rejoined Leonard. "You know your father'sdetermination--I would willingly spare you, Amabel. "

"Oh, goodness! what _will_ become of us?" cried Patience--"if thereisn't Mr. Bloundel coming downstairs. "

"Amabel, " said Leonard, sternly, "the next moment decides your fate. Ifthe earl departs, I will keep your secret. "

"You hear that, my lord, " she cried; "I command you to leave me. "

And disengaging herself from him, and hastily passing her father, who atthat moment entered the kitchen, she rushed upstairs. 

On hearing the alarm of the grocer's approach, Pillichody took refuge ina cupboard, the door of which stood invitingly open, so that Bloundelonly perceived the earl. 

"What is the matter?" he cried, gazing around him. "Whom have we here?"

"It is a quack doctor, whom Blaize has been consulting about theplague, " returned Leonard. 

"See him instantly out of the house, " rejoined the grocer, angrily, "andtake care he never enters it again. I will have no such charlatanshere. "

Leonard motioned Rochester to follow him, and the latter reluctantlyobeyed. 

As soon as Bloundel had retired, Leonard, who had meanwhile providedhimself with his cudgel, descended to the kitchen, where he draggedPillichody from his hiding-place, and conducted him to the back door. But he did not suffer him to depart without belabouring him soundly. Locking the door, he then went in search of Blaize, and administered asimilar chastisement to him. 

IV. 

THE TWO WATCHMEN. 

On the day following the events last related, as Leonard Holt wasstanding at the door of the shop, --his master having just been calledout by some important business, --a man in the dress of a watchman, witha halberd in his hand, approached him, and inquired if he was Mr. Bloundel's apprentice. 

Before returning an answer, Leonard looked hard at the newcomer, andthought he had never beheld so ill-favoured a person before. Everyfeature in his face was distorted. His mouth was twisted on one side, his nose on the other, while his right eyebrow was elevated more than aninch above the left; added to which he squinted intolerably, had a longfell of straight sandy hair, a sandy beard and moustache, and acomplexion of the colour of brickdust. 

"An ugly dog, " muttered Leonard to himself, as he finished his scrutiny;"what can he want with me? Suppose I should be Mr. Bloundel'sapprentice, " he added, aloud, "what then, friend?"

"Your master has a beautiful daughter, has he not?" asked theill-favoured watchman. 

"I answer no idle questions, " rejoined Leonard, coldly. 

"As you please, " returned the other, in an offended tone. "A plan tocarry her off has accidentally come to my knowledge. But, sinceincivility is all I am likely to get for my pains in coming to acquaintyou with it, e'en find it out yourself. "

"Hold!" cried the apprentice, detaining him; "I meant no offence. Stepindoors for a moment. We can converse there more freely. "

The watchman, who, notwithstanding his ill-looks, appeared to be agood-natured fellow, was easily appeased. Following the apprentice intothe shop, on the promise of a handsome reward, he instantly commencedhis relation. 

"Last night, " he said, "I was keeping watch at the door of Mr. Brackley, a saddler in Aldermanbury, whose house having been attacked by thepestilence is now shut up, when I observed two persons, rathersingularly attired, pass me. Both were dressed like old men, but neithertheir gait nor tone of voice corresponded with their garb. "

"It must have been the Earl of Rochester and his companion, " remarkedLeonard. 

"You are right, " replied the other; "for I afterwards heard one of themaddressed by that title. But to proceed. I was so much struck by thestrangeness of their appearance, that I left my post for a few minutes, and followed them. They halted beneath a gateway, and, as they conversedtogether very earnestly, and in a loud tone, I could distinctly hearwhat they said. One of them, the stoutest of the two, complainedbitterly of the indignities he had received from Mr. Bloundel'sapprentice (meaning you, of course), averring that nothing but hisdevotion to his companion had induced him to submit to them; andaffirming, with many tremendous oaths, that he would certainly cut theyoung man's throat the very first opportunity. "

"He shall not want it then, " replied Leonard contemptuously; "neithershall he lack a second application of my cudgel when we meet. But whatof his companion? What did he say?"

"He laughed heartily at the other's complaints, " returned the watchman, "and told him to make himself easy, for he should soon have his revenge. 'To-morrow night, ' he said, 'we will carry off Amabel, in spite of theapprentice or her father; and, as I am equally indebted with yourself tothe latter, we will pay off old scores with him. '"

"How do they intend to effect their purpose?" demanded Leonard. 

"That I cannot precisely tell, " replied the watchman. "All I could hearwas, that they meant to enter the house by the back yard about midnight. And now, if you will make it worth my while, I will help you to catchthem in their own trap. "

"Hum!" said Leonard. "What is your name?"

"Gregory Swindlehurst, " replied the other. 

"To help me, you must keep watch with me to-night, " rejoined Leonard. "Can you do so?"

"I see nothing to hinder me, provided I am paid for my trouble, " repliedGregory. "I will find some one to take my place at Mr. Brackley's. Atwhat hour shall I come?"

"Soon after ten, " said Leonard. "Be at the shop-door, and I will let youin. "

"Count upon me, " rejoined Gregory, a smile of satisfaction illumininghis ill-favoured countenance. "Shall I bring a comrade with me? I know atrusty fellow who would like the job. If Lord Rochester should have hiscompanions with him, assistance will be required. "

"True, " replied Leonard. "Is your comrade a watchman, like yourself?"

"He is an old soldier, who has been lately employed to keep guard overinfected houses, " replied Gregory. "We must take care his lordship doesnot overreach us. "

"If he gets into the house without my knowledge, I will forgive him, "replied the apprentice. 

"He won't get into it without mine, " muttered Gregory, significantly. "But do you not mean to warn Mistress Amabel of her danger?"

"I shall consider of it, " replied the apprentice. 

At this moment Mr. Bloundel entered the shop, and Leonard, feigning tosupply his companion with a small packet of grocery, desired him, in alow tone, to be punctual to his appointment, and dismissed him. Injustice to the apprentice, it must be stated that he had no wish forconcealment, but was most anxious to acquaint his master with theinformation he had just obtained, and was only deterred from doing so bya dread of the consequences it might produce to Amabel. 

The evening passed off much as usual. The family assembled at prayer;and. Blaize, whose shoulders still ached with the chastisement he hadreceived, eyed the apprentice with sullen and revengeful looks. Patience, too, was equally angry, and her indignation was evinced in amanner so droll, that at another season it would have drawn a smile fromLeonard. 

Supper over, Amabel left the room. Leonard followed her, and overtookher on the landing of the stairs. 

"Amabel, " he said, "I have received certain intelligence that the Earlof Rochester will make another attempt to enter the house, and carry youoff to-night. "

"Oh! when will he cease from persecuting me?" she cried. 

"When you cease to encourage him, " replied the apprentice, bitterly. 

"I do _not_ encourage him, Leonard, " she rejoined, "and to prove that Ido not, I will act in any way you think proper tonight. "

"If I could trust you, " said Leonard, you might be of the greatestservice in convincing the earl that his efforts are fruitless. "

"You _may_ trust me, " she rejoined. 

"Well, then, " returned Leonard, "when the family have retired to rest, come downstairs, and I will tell you what to do. "

Hastily promising compliance, Amabel disappeared; and Leonard ran downthe stairs, at the foot of which he encountered Mrs. Bloundel. 

"What is the matter?" she asked. 

"Nothing--nothing, " replied the apprentice, evasively. 

"That-will not serve my turn, " she rejoined. "Something, I am certain, troubles you, though you do not choose to confess it. Heaven grant youranxiety is not occasioned by aught relating to that wicked Earl ofRochester! I cannot sleep in my bed for thinking of him. I noticed thatyou followed Amabel out of the room. I hope you do not suspectanything. "

"Do not question me further, madam, I entreat, " returned the apprentice. "Whatever I may suspect, I have taken all needful precautions. Resteasy, and sleep soundly, if you can. All will go well. "

"I shall never rest easy, Leonard, " rejoined Mrs. Bloundel, "till youare wedded to my daughter. Then, indeed, I shall feel happy. My poorchild, I am sure, is fully aware how indiscreet her conduct has been;and when this noble libertine desists from annoying her--or rather, whenhe is effectually shut out--we may hope for a return of her regard foryou. "

"It is a vain hope, madam, " replied Leonard; "there will be no suchreturn. I neither expect it nor desire it. "

"Have you ceased to love her?" asked Mrs. Bloundel, in surprise. 

"Ceased to love her!" echoed Leonard, fiercely. "Would I had doneso!--would I _could_ do so! I love her too well--too well. "

And repeating the words to himself with great bitterness, he hurriedaway. 

"His passion has disturbed his brain, " sighed Mrs. Bloundel, as sheproceeded to her chamber. "I must try to reason him into calmnessto-morrow. "

Half an hour after this, the grocer retired for the night; and Leonard, who had gone to his own room, cautiously opened the door, and repairedto the shop. On the way he met Amabel. She looked pale as death, andtrembled so violently, that she could scarcely support herself. 

"I hope you do not mean to use any violence towards the earl, Leonard?"she said in a supplicating voice. 

"He will never repeat his visit, " rejoined the apprentice, gloomily. 

"Your looks terrify me, " cried Amabel, gazing with great uneasiness athis stern and determined countenance. "I will remain by you. He willdepart at my bidding. "

"Did he depart at your bidding before?" demanded Leonard, sarcastically. 

"He did not, I grant, " she replied, more supplicatingly than before. "But do not harm him--for mercy's sake, do not--take my life sooner. Ialone have offended you. "

The apprentice made no reply, but, unlocking a box, took out a brace oflarge horse-pistols and a sword, and thrust them into his girdle. 

"You do not mean to use those murderous weapons?" cried Amabel. 

"It depends on circumstances, " replied Leonard. "Force must be met byforce. "

"Nay, then, " she rejoined, "the affair assumes too serious an aspect tobe trifled with. I will instantly alarm my father. "

"Do so, " retorted Leonard, "and he will cast you off for ever. "

"Better that, than be the cause of bloodshed, " she returned. "But isthere nothing I can do to prevent this fatal result?"

"Yes, " replied Leonard. "Make your lover understand he is unwelcome toyou. Dismiss him for ever. On that condition, he shall depart unharmedand freely. "

"I will do so, " she rejoined. 

Nothing more was then said. Amabel seated herself and kept her eyesfixed on Leonard, who, avoiding her regards, stationed himself near thedoor. 

By-and-by a slight tap was heard without, and the apprentice cautiouslyadmitted Gregory Swindlehurst and his comrade. The latter was habitedlike the other watchman, in a blue night-rail, and was armed with ahalberd. He appeared much stouter, much older, and, so far as could bediscovered of his features--for a large handkerchief muffled hisface--much uglier (if that were possible) than his companion. Heanswered to the name of Bernard Boutefeu. They had no sooner entered theshop, than Leonard locked the door. 

"Who are these persons?" asked Amabel, rising in great alarm. 

"Two watchmen whom I have hired to guard the house, " replied Leonard. 

"We are come to protect you, fair mistress, " said Gregory, "and, if needbe, to cut the Earl of Rochester's throat. "

"Oh heavens!" exclaimed Amabel. 

"Ghost of Tarquin!" cried Boutefeu, "we'll teach him to break into thehouses of quiet citizens, and attempt to carry off their daughtersagainst their will. By the soul of Dick Whittington, Lord Mayor ofLondon! we'll maul and mangle him. "

"Silence! Bernard Boutefeu, " interposed Gregory. "You frighten MistressAmabel by your strange oaths. "

"I should be sorry to do that, " replied Boutefeu--"I only wish to showmy zeal for her. Don't be afraid of the Earl of Rochester, fairmistress. With all his audacity, he won't dare to enter the house whenhe finds we are there. "

"Is it your pleasure that we should thrust a halberd through his body, or lodge a bullet in his brain?" asked Gregory, appealing to Amabel. 

"Touch him not, I beseech you, " she rejoined. "Leonard, I have yourpromise that, if I can prevail upon him to depart, you will not molesthim. "

"You have, " he replied. 

"You hear that, " she observed to the watchmen. 

"We are all obedience, " said Gregory. 

"Bless your tender heart!" cried Boutefeu, "we would not pain you forthe world. "

"A truce to this, " said Leonard. "Come to the yard, we will wait for himthere. "

"I will go with you, " cried Amabel. "If any harm should befall him, Ishould never forgive myself. "

"Remember what I told you, " rejoined Leonard, sternly; "it depends uponyourself whether he leaves the house alive. "

"Heed him not, " whispered Gregory. "I and my comrade will obey no onebut you. "

Amabel could not repress an exclamation of surprise. 

"What are you muttering, sirrah?" demanded Leonard, angrily. 

"Only that the young lady may depend on our fidelity, " replied Gregory. "There can be no offence in that. Come with us, " he whispered to Amabel. 

The latter part of his speech escaped Leonard, but the tone in which itwas uttered was so significant, that Amabel, who began to entertain newsuspicions, hesitated. 

"You must come, " said Leonard, seizing her hand. 

"The fault be his, not mine, " murmured Amabel, as she suffered herselfto be drawn along. 

The party then proceeded noiselessly towards the yard. On the way, Amabel felt a slight pressure on her arm, but, afraid of alarmingLeonard, she made no remark. 

The back-door was opened, and the little group stood in the darkness. They had not long to wait. Before they had been in the yard fiveminutes, a noise was heard of footsteps and muttered voices in theentry. This was followed by a sound like that occasioned by fastening arope-ladder against the wall, and the next moment two figures wereperceived above it. After dropping the ladder into the yard, thesepersons, the foremost of whom the apprentice concluded was the Earl ofRochester, descended. They had no sooner touched the ground thanLeonard, drawing his pistols, advanced towards them. 

"You are my prisoner, my lord, " he said, in a stern voice, "and shallnot depart with life, unless you pledge your word never to come hitheragain on the same errand. "

"Betrayed!" cried the earl, laying his hand upon his sword. 

"Resistance is in vain, my lord, " rejoined Leonard. "I am better armedthan yourself. "

"Will nothing bribe you to silence, fellow?" cried the earl. "I willgive you a thousand pounds, if you will hold your tongue, and conduct meto my mistress. "

"I can scarcely tell what stays my hand, " returned Leonard, in a furioustone. "But I will hold no further conversation with you. Amabel ispresent, and will give you your final dismissal herself. "

"If I receive it from her own lips, " replied the earl, "I will instantlyretire--but not otherwise. "

"Amabel, " said Leonard in a low tone to her, "you hear what is said. Fulfil your promise. "

"Do so, " cried a voice, which she instantly recognised, in her ear--"Iam near you. "

"Ah!" she exclaimed. 

"Do you hesitate?" cried the apprentice, sternly. 

"My lord, " said Amabel, in a faint voice, "I must pray you to retire, your efforts are in vain. I will never fly with you. "

"That will not suffice, " whispered Leonard; "you must tell him you nolonger love him. "

"Hear me, " pursued Amabel; "you who present yourself as Lord Rochester, I entertain no affection for you, and never wish to behold you again. "

"Enough!" cried Leonard. 

"Admirable!" whispered Gregory. "Nothing could be better. "

"Well, " cried the supposed earl, "since I no longer hold a place in youraffections, it would be idle to pursue the matter further. Heaven bepraised, there are other damsels quite as beautiful, though not socruel. Farewell for ever, Amabel. "

So saying he mounted the ladder, and, followed by his companion, disappeared on the other side. 

"He is gone, " said Leonard, "and I hope for ever. Now let us return tothe house. "

"I am coming, " rejoined Amabel. 

"Let him go, " whispered Gregory. "The ladder is still upon the wall; wewill climb it. "

And as the apprentice moved towards the house, he tried to drag her inthat direction. 

"I cannot--will not fly thus, " she cried. 

"What is the matter?" exclaimed Leonard, suddenly turning. 

"Further disguise is useless, " replied the supposed GregorySwindlehurst. "I am the Earl of Rochester. The other was a counterfeit. "

"Ah!" exclaimed Leonard, rushing towards them, and placing a pistolagainst the breast of his mistress? "Have I been duped? But it is notyet too late to retrieve my error. Move a foot further, my lord, --and doyou, Amabel, attempt to fly with him, and I fire. "

"You cannot mean this?" cried Rochester. "Raise your hand against thewoman you love?"

"Against the woman who forgets her duty, and the libertine who temptsher, the arm that is raised is that of justice, " replied Leonard. "Stiranother footstep, and I fire. "

As he spoke, his arms were suddenly seized by a powerful grasp frombehind, and, striking the pistols from his hold, the earl snatched upAmabel in his arms, and, mounting the ladder, made good his retreat. 

A long and desperate struggle took place between Leonard and hisassailant, who was no other than Pillichody, in his assumed character ofBernard Boutefeu. But notwithstanding the superior strength of thebully, and the advantage he had taken of the apprentice, he was worstedin the end. 

Leonard had no sooner extricated himself, than, drawing his sword, hewould have passed it through Pillichody's body, if the latter had notstayed his hand by offering to tell him where he would find hismistress, provided his life were spared. 

"Where has the earl taken her?" cried Leonard, scarcely able toarticulate from excess of passion. 

"He meant to take her to Saint Paul's, --to the vaults below thecathedral, to avoid pursuit, " replied Pillichody. "I have no doubt youwill find her there. "

"I will go there instantly and search, " cried Leonard, rushing up theladder. 

V. 

THE BLIND PIPER AND HIS DAUGHTER

Scarcely knowing how he got there, Leonard Holt found himself at thegreat northern entrance of the cathedral. Burning with fury, he knockedat the door; but no answer being returned to the summons, though herepeated it still more loudly, he shook the heavy latch with suchviolence as to rouse the sullen echoes of the aisles. Driven almost todesperation, he retired a few paces, and surveyed the walls of the vaststructure, in the hope of descrying some point by which he might obtainan entrance. 

It was a bright moonlight night, and the reverend pile looked sobeautiful, that, under any other frame of mind, Leonard must, have beenstruck with admiration. The ravages of time could not now be discerned, and the architectural incongruities which, seen in the broad glare ofday, would have offended the eye of taste, were lost in the generalgrand effect. On the left ran the magnificent pointed windows of thechoir, divided by massive buttresses, --the latter ornamented withcrocketed pinnacles. On the right, the building had been new-faced, andits original character, in a great measure, destroyed by the tastelessmanner in which the repairs had been executed. On this side, the lowerwindows were round-headed and separated by broad pilasters, while abovethem ran a range of small circular windows. At the western angle wasseen one of the towers (since imitated by Wren), which flanked this sideof the fane, together with a part of the portico erected, abouttwenty-five years previously, by Inigo Jones, and which, thoughbeautiful in itself, was totally out of character with the edifice, and, in fact, a blemish to it. 

Insensible alike to the beauties or defects of the majestic building, and regarding it only as the prison of his mistress, Leonard Holtscanned it carefully on either side. But his scrutiny was attended withno favourable result. 

Before resorting to force to obtain admission, he determined to make thecomplete circuit of the structure, and with this view he shaped hiscourse towards the east. 

He found two small doors on the left of the northern transept, but bothwere fastened, and the low pointed windows beneath the choir, lightingthe subterranean church of Saint Faith's, were all barred. Running on, he presently came to a flight of stone steps at the north-east corner ofthe choir, leading to a portal opening upon a small chapel dedicated toSaint George. But this was secured like the others, and, thinking itvain to waste time in trying to force it, he pursued his course. 

Skirting the eastern extremity of the fane--then the most beautiful partof the structure, from its magnificent rose window--he speeded past thelow windows which opened on this side, as on the other upon SaintFaith's, and did not pause till he came to the great southern portal, the pillars and arch of which differed but slightly in character fromthose of the northern entrance. 

Here he knocked as before, and was answered, as on the former occasion, by sullen echoes from within. When these sounds died away, he placed hisear to the huge key-hole in the wicket, but could not even catch thefall of a footstep. Neither could he perceive any light, except thatafforded by the moonbeams, which flooded the transept with radiance. 

Again hurrying on, he passed the cloister-walls surrounding theConvocation House; tried another door between that building and thechurch of Saint Gregory, a small fane attached to the larger structure;and failing in opening it, turned the corner and approached theportico, --the principal entrance to the cathedral being then, as now, onthe west. 

Erected, as before mentioned, from the designs of the celebrated InigoJones, this magnificent colonnade was completed about 1640, at whichtime preparations were made for repairing the cathedral throughout, andfor strengthening the tower, for enabling it to support a new spire. Butthis design, owing to the disorganised state of affairs, was nevercarried into execution. 

At the time of the Commonwealth, while the interior of the sacred fabricunderwent every sort of desecration and mutilation, --while stones weretorn from the pavement, and monumental brasses from tombs, --while carvedstalls were burnt, and statues plucked from their niches, --a similarfate attended the portico. Shops were built beneath it, and thesculptures ornamenting its majestic balustrade were thrown down. 

Amongst other obstructions, it appears that there was a "high house inthe north angle, which hindered the masons from repairing that part ofit. " The marble door-cases, the capitals, cornices, and pillars were somuch injured by the fires made against them, that it required months toput them in order. At the Restoration, Sir John Denham, the poet, wasappointed surveyor-general of the works, and continued to hold theoffice at the period of this history. 

As Leonard drew near the portico, he perceived, to his surprise, that alarge concourse of people was collected in the area in front of it; and, rushing forward, he found the assemblage listening to the denunciationsof Solomon Eagle, who was standing in the midst of them with his brazieron his head. The enthusiast appeared more than usually excited. He wastossing aloft his arms in a wild and frenzied manner, and seemed to bedirecting his menaces against the cathedral itself. 

Hoping to obtain assistance from the crowd, Leonard resolved to await afitting period to address them. Accordingly, he joined them, andlistened to the discourse of the enthusiast. 

"Hear me!" cried the latter, in a voice of thunder. "I had a vision lastnight and will relate it to you. During my brief slumbers, I thought Iwas standing on this very spot, and gazing as now upon yon mightystructure. On a sudden the day became overcast, and ere long it grewpitchy dark. Then was heard a noise of rushing wings in the air, and Icould just discern many strange figures hovering above the tower, uttering doleful cries and lamentations. All at once these figuresdisappeared, and gave place to, or, it may be, were chased away by, others of more hideous appearance. The latter brought lighted brandswhich they hurled against the sacred fabric, and, in an instant, flamesburst forth from it on all sides. My brethren, it was a fearful, yet aglorious sight to see that vast pile wrapped in the devouring element!The flames were so vivid--so intense--that I could not bear to look uponthem, and I covered my face with my hands. On raising my eyes again theflames were extinguished, but the building was utterly in ruins--itscolumns cracked--its tower hurled from its place--its ponderous rooflaid low. It was a mournful spectacle, and a terrible proof of theDivine wrath and vengeance. Yes, my brethren, the temple of the Lord hasbeen profaned, and it will be razed to the ground. It has been the sceneof abomination and impiety, and must be purified by fire. Theft, murder, sacrilege, and every other crime have been committed within its walls, and its destruction will follow. The ministers of Heaven's vengeance areeven now hovering above it. Repent, therefore, ye who listen to me, andrepent speedily; for sudden death, plague, fire, and famine, are athand. As the prophet Amos saith, 'The Lord will send a fire, the Lordwill commission a fire, the Lord will kindle a fire;' and the fire socommissioned and so kindled shall consume you and your city; nor shallone stone of those walls be left standing on another. Repent, or burn, for he cometh to judge the earth. Repent, or burn, I say!"

As soon as he concluded, Leonard Holt ran up the steps of the portico, and in a loud voice claimed the attention of the crowd. 

"Solomon Eagle is right, " he cried; "the vengeance of Heaven willdescend upon this fabric, since it continues to be the scene of so muchwickedness. Even now it forms the retreat of a profligate nobleman, whohas this night forcibly carried off the daughter of a citizen. "

"What nobleman?" cried a bystander. 

"The Earl of Rochester, " replied Leonard. "He has robbed StephenBloundel, the grocer of Wood-street, of his daughter, and has concealedher, to avoid pursuit, in the vaults of the cathedral. "

"I know Mr. Bloundel well, " rejoined the man who had made the inquiry, and whom Leonard recognised as a hosier named Lamplugh, "and I know theperson who addresses us. It is his apprentice. We must restore thedamsel to her father, friends. "

"Agreed!" cried several voices. 

"Knock at the door, " cried a man, whose occupation of a smith wasproclaimed by his leathern apron, brawny chest, and smoke-begrimedvisage, as well as by the heavy hammer which he bore upon his shoulder. "If it is not instantly opened, we will break it down. I have animplement here which will soon do the business. "

A rush was then made to the portal, which rang with the heavy blowsdealt against it. While this was passing, Solomon Eagle, whoseexcitement was increased by the tumult, planted himself in the centre ofthe colonnade, and vociferated--"I speak in the words of the prophetEzekiel:--'Thou hast defiled thy sanctuaries by the multitude of thineiniquities, by the iniquity of thy traffic. Therefore will I bring fortha fire from the midst of thee, and will bring thee to ashes upon theearth, in the sight of all them that behold thee!'"

The crowd continued to batter the door until they were checked byLamplugh, who declared he heard some one approaching, and the nextmoment the voice of one of the vergers inquired in trembling tones, whothey were, and what they wanted. 

"No matter who we are, " replied Leonard, "we demand admittance to searchfor a young female who has been taken from her home by the Earl ofRochester, and is now concealed within the vaults of the cathedral. "

"If admittance is refused us, we will soon let ourselves in, "vociferated Lamplugh. 

"Ay, that we will, " added the smith. 

"You are mistaken, friends, " returned the verger, timorously. "The Earlof Rochester is not here. "

"We will not take your word for it, " rejoined the smith. "This will showyou we are not to be trifled with. "

So saying, he raised his hammer, and struck such a tremendous blowagainst the door, that the bolts started in their sockets. 

"Hold! hold!" cried the verger; "sooner than violence shall becommitted, I will risk your admission. "

And he unfastened the door. 

"Keep together, " shouted the smith, stretching out his arms to opposethe progress of the crowd. "Keep together, I say. "

"Ay, ay, keep together, " added Lamplugh, seconding his efforts. 

"Conduct us to the Earl of Rochester, and no harm shall befall you, "cried Leonard, seizing the verger by the collar. 

"I tell you I know nothing about him, " replied the man. "He is nothere. "

"It is false! you are bribed to silence, " rejoined the apprentice. "Wewill search till we find him. "

"Search where you please, " rejoined the verger; "and if you _do_ findhim, do what you please with me. "

"Don't be afraid of that, friend, " replied the smith; "we will hang youand the earl to the same pillar. "

By this time, the crowd had pushed aside the opposition offered by thesmith and Lamplugh. Solomon Eagle darted along the nave with lightningswiftness, and, mounting the steps leading to the choir, disappearedfrom view. Some few persons followed him, while others took their coursealong the aisles. But the majority kept near the apprentice. 

Snatching the lamp from the grasp of the verger, Leonard Holt ran onwith his companions till they came to the beautiful chapel built byThomas Kempe, bishop of London. The door was open, and the apprentice, holding the light forward, perceived there were persons inside. He wasabout to enter the chapel, when a small spaniel rushed forth, and, barking furiously, held him in check for a moment. Alarmed by the noise, an old man in a tattered garb, and a young female, who were slumberingon benches in the chapel, immediately started to their feet, andadvanced towards them. 

"We are mistaken, " said Lamplugh; "this is only Mike Macascree, theblind piper and his daughter Nizza. I know them well enough. "

Leonard was about to proceed with his search, but a slight circumstancedetained him for a few minutes, during which time he had sufficientleisure to note the extraordinary personal attractions of NizzaMacascree. 

In age she appeared about seventeen, and differed in the character ofher beauty, as well as in the natural gracefulness of her carriage anddemeanour, from all the persons he had seen in her humble sphere oflife. Her features were small, and of the utmost delicacy. She had acharmingly-formed nose--slightly _retroussé_--a small mouth, garnishedwith pearl-like teeth, and lips as fresh and ruddy as the dew-steepedrose. Her skin was as dark as a gipsy's, but clear and transparent, andfar more attractive than the fairest complexion. Her eyes were luminousas the stars, and black as midnight; while her raven tresses, gatheredbeneath a spotted kerchief tied round her head, escaped in many a wantoncurl down her shoulders. Her figure was slight, but exquisitelyproportioned; and she had the smallest foot and ankle that ever fell tothe lot of woman. Her attire was far from unbecoming, though of thecoarsest material; and her fairy feet were set off by the daintiestshoes and hose. Such was the singular and captivating creature thatattracted the apprentice's attention. 

Her father, Mike Macascree, was upwards of sixty, but still in the fullvigour of life, with features which, though not ill-looking, bore noparticular resemblance to those of his daughter. He had a good-humoured, jovial countenance, the mirthful expression of which even his sightlessorbs could not destroy. Long white locks descended upon his shoulders, and a patriarchal beard adorned his chin. He was wrapped in a loose greygown, patched with different coloured cloths, and supported himself witha staff. His pipe was suspended from his neck by a green worsted cord. 

"Lie down, Bell, " he cried to his dog; "what are you barking at thus?Lie down, I say. "

"Something is the matter, father, " replied Nizza. "The church is full ofpeople. "

"Indeed!" exclaimed the piper. 

"We are sorry to disturb you, " said Leonard; "but we are in search of anobleman who has run away with a citizen's daughter, and conveyed her tothe cathedral, and we thought they might have taken refuge in thischapel. "

"No one is here except myself and daughter, " replied the piper. "We areallowed this lodging by Mr. Quatremain, the minor canon. "

"All dogs are ordered to be destroyed by the Lord Mayor, " cried thesmith, seizing Bell by the neck. "This noisy animal must be silenced. "

"Oh, no! do not hurt her!" cried Nizza. "My father loves poor Bellalmost as well as he loves me. She is necessary to his existence. Youmust not--will not destroy her!"

"Won't I?" replied the smith, gruffly; "we'll see that. "

"But we are not afraid of contagion, are we, father?" cried Nizza, appealing to the piper. 

"Not in the least, " replied Mike, "and we will take care the poor beasttouches no one else. Do not harm her, sir--for pity's sake, do not. Ishould miss her sadly. "

"The Lord Mayor's commands must be obeyed, " rejoined the smith, brutally. 

As if conscious of the fate awaiting her, poor Bell struggled hard toget free, and uttered a piteous yell. 

"You are not going to kill the dog?" interposed Leonard. 

"Have you anything to say to the contrary?" rejoined the smith, in atone calculated, as he thought, to put an end to further interference. 

"Only this, " replied Leonard, "that I will not allow it. "

"You won't--eh?" returned the smith, derisively. 

"I will not, " rejoined Leonard, "so put her down and come along. "

"Go your own way, " replied the smith, "and leave me to mine. "

Leonard answered by snatching Bell suddenly from his grasp. Thusliberated, the terrified animal instantly flew to her mistress. 

"Is this the return I get for assisting you?" cried the smith, savagely. "You are bewitched by a pair of black eyes. But you will repent yourfolly. "

"I shall never forget your kindness, " replied Nizza, clasping Bell toher bosom, and looking gratefully at the apprentice. "You say you are insearch of a citizen's daughter and a nobleman. About half an hour ago, or scarcely so much, I was awakened by the opening of the door of thesouthern transept, and peeping out, I saw three persons--a young man inthe dress of a watchman, but evidently disguised, and a very beautifulyoung woman, conducted by Judith Malmayns, bearing a lantern, --passthrough the doorway leading to Saint Faith's. Perhaps they are the verypersons you are in search of. "

"They are, " returned Leonard; "and you have repaid me a hundredfold forthe slight service I have rendered you by the information. We willinstantly repair to the vaults. Come along. "

Accompanied by the whole of the assemblage, except the smith, whoskulked off in the opposite direction, he passed through the low doorwayon the right of the choir, and descended to Saint Faith's. Thesubterranean church was buried in profound darkness, and apparentlywholly untenanted. On reaching the charnel, they crossed it, and triedthe door of the vault formerly occupied by the sexton. It was fastened, but Leonard knocking violently against it, it was soon opened by JudithMalmayns, who appeared much surprised, and not a little alarmed, at thesight of so many persons. She was not alone, and her companion wasChowles. He was seated at a table, on which stood a flask of brandy anda couple of glasses, and seemed a good deal confused at being caught insuch a situation, though he endeavoured to cover his embarrassment by anair of effrontery. 

"Where is the Earl of Rochester?--where is Amabel?" demanded LeonardHolt. 

"I know nothing about either of them, " replied Judith. "Why do you putthese questions to me?"

"Because you admitted them to the cathedral, " cried the apprentice, furiously, "and because you have concealed them. If you do not instantlyguide me to their retreat, I will make you a terrible example to allsuch evil-doers in future. "

"If you think to frighten me by your violence, you are mistaken, "returned Judith, boldly. "Mr. Chowles has been here more than twohours--ask him whether he has seen any one. "

"Certainly not, " replied Chowles. "There is no Amabel--no Earl ofRochester here. You must be dreaming, young man. "

"The piper's daughter affirmed the contrary, " replied Leonard. "She saidshe saw this woman admit them. "

"She lies, " replied Judith, fiercely. But suddenly altering her tone, she continued, "If I _had_ admitted them, you would find them here. "

Leonard looked round uneasily. He was but half convinced, and yet hescarcely knew what to think. 

"If you doubt what I say to you, " continued Judith, "I will take you toevery chamber in the cathedral. You will then be satisfied that I speakthe truth. But I will not have this mob with me. Your companions mustremain here. "

"Ay, stop with me and make yourselves comfortable, " cried Chowles. "Youare not so much used to these places as I am, I prefer a snug crypt, like this, to the best room in a tavern--ha! ha!"

Attended by Judith, Leonard Holt searched every corner of thesubterranean church, except the vestry, the door of which was locked, and the key removed; but without success. They then ascended to theupper structure, and visited the choir, the transepts, and the nave, butwith no better result. 

"If you still think they are here, " said Judith, "we will mount to thesummit of the tower?"

"I will never quit the cathedral without them, " replied Leonard. 

"Come on, then, " returned Judith. 

So saying, she opened the door in the wall on the left of the choir, and, ascending a winding stone staircase to a considerable height, arrived at a small cell contrived within the thickness of the wall, anddesired Leonard to search it. The apprentice unsuspectingly obeyed. Buthe had scarcely set foot inside when the door was locked behind him, andhe was made aware of the treachery practised upon him by a peal ofmocking laughter from his conductress. 

VI. 

OLD LONDON FROM OLD SAINT PAUL'S. 

After repeated, but ineffectual efforts to burst open the door, Leonardgave up the attempt in despair, and endeavoured to make his situationknown by loud outcries. But his shouts, if heard, were unheeded, and hewas soon compelled from exhaustion to desist. Judith having carried awaythe lantern, he was left in total darkness; but on searching the cell, which was about four feet wide and six deep, he discovered a narrowgrated loophole. By dint of great exertion, and with the help of hissword, which snapped in twain as he used it, he managed to force off oneof the rusty bars, and to squeeze himself through the aperture. All hislabour, however, was thrown away. The loophole opened on the south sideof the tower, near one of the large buttresses, which projected severalyards beyond it on the left, and was more than twenty feet above theroof; so that it would be certain destruction to drop from so great aheight. 

The night was overcast, and the moon hidden behind thick clouds. Still, there was light enough to enable him to discern the perilous position inwhich he stood. After gazing below for some time, Leonard was about toreturn to the cell, when, casting his eyes upwards, he thought heperceived the end of a rope about a foot above his head, dangling fromthe upper part of the structure. No sooner was this discovery made, thanit occurred to him that he might possibly liberate himself by thisunlooked for aid; and, regardless of the risk he ran, he sprang upwardsand caught hold of the rope. It was firmly fastened above, and sustainedhis weight well. 

Possessed of great bodily strength and activity, and nerved bydesperation, Leonard Holt placed his feet against the buttress, andimpelled himself towards one of the tall pointed windows lighting theinterior of the tower; but though he reached the point at which heaimed, the sway of the rope dragged him back before he could obtain asecure grasp of the stone shaft; and, after another ineffectual effort, fearful of exhausting his strength, he abandoned the attempt, and beganto climb up the rope with his hands and knees. Aided by the inequalitiesof the roughened walls, he soon gained a range of small Saxon archesornamenting the tower immediately beneath the belfry, and succeeded inplanting his right foot on the moulding of one of them; he instantlysteadied himself, and with little further effort clambered through anopen window. 

His first act on reaching the belfry was to drop on his knees, andreturn thanks to Heaven for his deliverance. He then looked about for anoutlet; but though a winding staircase existed in each of the fourangles of the tower, all the doors, to his infinite disappointment, werefastened on the other side. He was still, therefore, a prisoner. 

Determined, however, not to yield to despair, he continued his search, and finding a small door opening upon a staircase communicating with thesummit of the tower, he unfastened it (for the bolt was on his ownside), and hurried up the steps. Passing through another door boltedlike the first within side, he issued upon the roof. He was now on thehighest part of the cathedral, and farther from his hopes than ever; andso agonizing were his feelings, that he almost felt tempted to flinghimself headlong downwards. Beneath him lay the body of the mightyfabric, its vast roof, its crocketed pinnacles, its buttresses andbattlements scarcely discernible through the gloom, but looking likesome monstrous engine devised to torture him. 

Wearied with gazing at it, and convinced of the futility of any furtherattempt at descent, Leonard Holt returned to the belfry, and, throwinghimself on the boarded floor, sought some repose. The fatigue he hadundergone was so great, that, notwithstanding his anxiety, he soondropped asleep, and did not awake for several hours. On opening hiseyes, it was just getting light, and shaking himself, he again preparedfor action. All the events of the night rushed upon his mind, and hethought with unutterable anguish of Amabel's situation. Glancing roundthe room, it occurred to him that he might give the alarm by ringing theenormous bells near him; but though he set them slightly in motion, hecould not agitate the immense clappers sufficiently to produce anysound. 

Resolved, however, to free himself at any hazard, he once more repairedto the summit of the tower, and leaning over the balustrade, gazedbelow. It was a sublime spectacle, and, in spite of his distress, filledhim with admiration and astonishment. He had stationed himself on thesouth side of the tower, and immediately beneath him lay the broad roofof the transept, stretching out to a distance of nearly two hundredfeet. On the right, surrounded by a double row of cloisters, remarkablefor the beauty of their architecture, stood the convocation, orchapter-house. The exquisite building was octagonal in form, andsupported by large buttresses, ornamented on each gradation by crocketedpinnacles. Each side, moreover, had a tall pointed window, filled withstained glass, and was richly adorned with trefoils and cinquefoils. Further on, on the same side, was the small low church dedicated toSaint Gregory, overtopped by the south-western tower of the mightierparent fane. 

It was not, however, the cathedral itself, but the magnificent view itcommanded, that chiefly attracted the apprentice's attention. From theelevated point on which he stood, his eye ranged over a vast tract ofcountry bounded by the Surrey hills, and at last settled upon the river, which in some parts was obscured by a light haze, and in others tingedwith the ruddy beams of the newly-risen sun. Its surface was spotted, even at this early hour, with craft, while innumerable vessels of allshapes and sizes were moored, to its banks. On. The left, he noted thetall houses covering London Bridge; and on the right, traced thesweeping course of the stream as it flowed from Westminster. On thishand, on the opposite bank, lay the flat marshes of Lambeth; whilenearer stood the old bull-baiting and bear-baiting establishments, theflags above which could be discerned above the tops of the surroundinghabitations. A little to the left was the borough of Southwark, eventhen a large and populous district--the two most prominent features inthe scene being Winchester House, and Saint Saviour's old and beautifulchurch. 

Filled with wonder at what he saw, Leonard looked towards the east, andhere an extraordinary prospect met his gaze. The whole of the city ofLondon was spread out like a map before him, and presented a dense massof ancient houses, with twisted chimneys, gables, and picturesqueroofs--here and there overtopped by a hall, a college, an hospital, orsome other lofty structure. This vast collection of buildings was girdedin by grey and mouldering walls, approached by seven gates, andintersected by innumerable narrow streets. The spires and towers of thechurches shot up into the clear morning air--for, except in a fewquarters, no smoke yet issued from the chimneys. On this side, the viewof the city was terminated by the fortifications and keep of the Tower. Little did the apprentice think, when he looked at the magnificent scenebefore him, and marvelled at the countless buildings he beheld, that, ere fifteen months had elapsed, the whole mass, together with the mightyfabric on which he stood, would be swept away by a tremendousconflagration. Unable to foresee this direful event, and lamenting onlythat so fair a city should be a prey to an exterminating pestilence, heturned towards the north, and suffered his gaze to wander overFinsbury-fields, and the hilly ground beyond them--over Smithfield andClerkenwell, and the beautiful open country adjoining Gray's-inn-lane. 

So smiling and beautiful did these districts appear, that ha couldscarcely fancy they were the chief haunts of the horrible distemper. Buthe could not blind himself to the fact that in Finsbury-fields, as wellas in the open country to the north of Holborn, plague-pits had beendigged and pest-houses erected; and this consideration threw such agloom over the prospect, that, in order to dispel the effect, he changedthe scene by looking towards the west. Here his view embraced all theproudest mansions of the capital, and tracing the Strand to CharingCross, long since robbed of the beautiful structure from which itderived its name, and noticing its numerous noble habitations, his eyefinally rested upon Whitehall: and he heaved a sigh as he thought thatthe palace of the sovereign was infected by as foul a moral taint as thehideous disease that ravaged the dwellings of his subjects. 

At the time that Leonard Holt gazed upon the capital, its picturesquebeauties were nearly at their close. In a little more than a year and aquarter afterwards, the greater part of the old city was consumed byfire; and though it was rebuilt, and in many respects improved, itsoriginal and picturesque character was entirely destroyed. 

It seems scarcely possible to conceive a finer view than can be gainedfrom the dome of the modern cathedral at sunrise on a May morning, whenthe prospect is not dimmed by the smoke of a hundred thousandchimneys--when the river is just beginning to stir with its numerouscraft, or when they are sleeping on its glistening bosom--when everyindividual house, court, church, square, or theatre, can bediscerned--when the eye can range over the whole city on each side, andcalculate its vast extent. It seems scarcely possible, we say, tosuppose at any previous time it could be more striking; and yet, at theperiod under consideration, it was incomparably more so. Then, everyhouse was picturesque, and every street a collection of picturesqueobjects. Then, that which was objectionable in itself, and contributedto the insalubrity of the city, namely, the extreme narrowness of thestreets, and overhanging stories of the houses, was the main source oftheir beauty. Then, the huge projecting signs with their fantasticaliron-work--the conduits--the crosses (where crosses remained)--themaypoles--all were picturesque; and as superior to what can now be seen, as the attire of Charles the Second's age is to the ugly and disfiguringcostume of our own day. 

Satiated with this glorious prospect, Leonard began to recur to his ownsituation, and carefully scrutinizing every available point on the sideof the Tower, he thought it possible to effect his descent by clamberingdown the gradations of one of the buttresses. Still, as this experimentwould be attended with the utmost danger, while, even if he reached theroof, he would yet be far from his object, he resolved to defer it for ashort time, in the hope that ere long seine of the bell-ringers, orother persons connected with the cathedral, might come thither and sethim free. 

While thus communing with himself, he heard a door open below; andhurrying down the stairs at the sound, he beheld, to his great surpriseand joy, the piper's daughter, Nizza Macascree. 

"I have searched for you everywhere, " she cried, "and began to thinksome ill had befallen you. I overheard Judith Malmayns say she had shutyou up in a cell in the upper part of the tower. How did you escapethence?"

Leonard hastily explained. 

"I told you I should never forget the service you rendered me inpreserving the life of poor Bell, " pursued Nizza, "and what I have donewill prove I am not unmindful of my promise I saw you search thecathedral last night with Judith, and noticed that she returned from thetower unaccompanied by you. At first I supposed you might have left thecathedral without my observing you, and I was further confirmed in theidea by what I subsequently heard. "

"Indeed!" exclaimed Leonard. "What did you hear?"

"I followed Judith to the vaults of Saint Faith's, " replied Nizza, "andheard her inform your companions that you had found the grocer'sdaughter, and had taken her away. "

"And this false statement imposed upon them?" cried Leonard. 

"It did, " replied Nizza. "They were by this time more than halfintoxicated by the brandy given them by Chowles, the coffin-maker, andthey departed in high dudgeon with you. "

"No wonder!" exclaimed Leonard. 

"They had scarcely been gone many minutes, " pursued Nizza, "when, havingstationed myself behind one of the massive pillars in the north aisle ofSaint Faith's--for I suspected something was wrong--I observed Judithand Chowles steal across the nave, and proceed towards the vestry. Theformer tapped at the door, and they were instantly admitted by Mr. Quatremain, the minor canon. Hastening to the door, which was leftslightly ajar, I perceived two young gallants, whom I heard addressed asthe Earl of Rochester and Sir George Etherege, and a young female, who Icould not doubt was Amabel. The earl and his companion laughed heartilyat the trick Judith had played you, and which the latter detailed tothem; but Amabel took no part in their merriment, but, on the contrary, looked very grave, and even wept. "

"Wept, did she?" cried Leonard, in a voice of much emotion. "Then, thereis hope for her yet. "

"You appear greatly interested in her, " observed Nizza, pausing, in hernarration. "Do you love her?"

"Can you ask it?" cried Leonard, passionately. 

"I would advise you to think no more of her, and to fix your heartelsewhere, " returned Nizza. 

"You know not what it is to love, " replied the apprentice, "or you wouldnot offer such a counsel. "

"Perhaps not, " replied Nizza; "but I am sorry you have bestowed yourheart upon one who so little appreciates the boon. "

And, feeling she had said too much, she blushed deeply, and cast downher eyes. 

Unconscious of her confusion, and entirely engrossed by the thought ofhis mistress, Leonard urged her to proceed. 

"Tell me what has become of Amabel--where I shall find her?" he cried. 

"You will find her soon enough, " replied Nizza. "She has not left thecathedral. But hear me to an end. On learning you were made a prisoner, I ran to the door leading to the tower, but found that Judith had lockedit, and removed the key. Not daring to give the alarm--for I hadgathered from what was said that the three vergers were in the earl'spay--I determined to await a favourable opportunity to release you. Accordingly I returned to the vestry door, and again played theeaves-dropper. By this time, another person, who was addressed as MajorPillichody, and who, it appeared, had been employed in the abduction, had joined the party. He informed the earl that Mr. Bloundel was in thegreatest distress at his daughter's disappearance, and advised him tolose no time in conveying her to some secure retreat. These tidingstroubled Amabel exceedingly, and the earl endeavoured to pacify her bypromising to espouse her at daybreak, and, as soon as the ceremony wasover, to introduce her in the character of his countess to her parents. "

"Villain!" cried Leonard; "but go on. "

"I have little more to tell, " replied Nizza, "except that she consentedto the proposal, provided she was allowed to remain till six o'clock, the hour appointed for the marriage, with Judith. "

"Bad as that alternative is, it is better than the other, " observedLeonard. "But how did you procure the key of the winding staircase?"

"I fortunately observed where Judith had placed it, " replied Nizza, "andwhen she departed to the crypt near the charnel, with Amabel, Ipossessed myself of it. For some time I was unable to use it, becausethe Earl of Rochester and Sir George Etherege kept pacing to and fro infront of the door, and their discourse convinced me that the marriagewas meant to be a feigned one, for Sir George strove to dissuade hisfriend from the step he was about to take; but the other only laughed athis scruples. As soon as they retired, which is not more than half anhour ago, I unlocked the door, and hurried up the winding stairs. Isearched every chamber, and began to think you were gone, or thatJudith's statement was false. But I resolved to continue my search untilI was fully satisfied on this point, and accordingly ascended to thebelfry. You are aware of the result. "

"You have rendered me a most important service, " replied Leonard; "and Ihope hereafter to prove my gratitude. But let us now descend to thechoir, where I will conceal myself till Amabel appears. This marriagemust be prevented. "

Before quitting the belfry, Leonard chanced to cast his eyes on a stoutstaff left there, either by one of the bell-ringers or some chancevisitant, and seizing it as an unlooked-for prize, he ran down thesteps, followed by the piper's daughter. 

On opening the lowest door, he glanced towards the choir, and therebefore the high altar stood Quatremain in his surplice, with the earland Amabel, attended by Etherege and Pillichody. The ceremony had justcommenced. Not a moment was to be lost. Grasping his staff, theapprentice darted along the nave, and, rushing up to the pair, exclaimed in a loud voice, "Hold! I forbid this marriage. It must nottake place!"

"Back, sirrah!" cried Etherege, drawing his sword, and opposing theapproach of the apprentice. "You have no authority to interrupt it. Proceed, Mr. Quatremain. "

"Forbear!" cried a voice of thunder near them--and all turning at thecry, they beheld Solomon Eagle, with his brazier on his head, issue frombehind the stalls. "Forbear!" cried the enthusiast, placing himselfbetween the earl and Amabel, both of whom recoiled at his approach. "Heaven's altar must not be profaned with these mockeries! And you, Thomas Quatremain, who have taken part in this unrighteous transaction, make clean your breast, and purge yourself quickly of your sins, foryour hours are numbered. I read in your livid looks and red and burningeyeballs that you are smitten by the pestilence. "

VII. 

PAUL'S WALK. 

It will now be necessary to ascertain what took place at the grocer'shabitation subsequently to Amabel's abduction. Leonard Holt havingdeparted, Pillichody was preparing to make good his retreat, when he wasprevented by Blaize, who, hearing a noise in the yard, peeped cautiouslyout at the back-door, and inquired who was there?

"Are you Mr. Bloundel?" rejoined Pillichody, bethinking him of a plan toturn the tables upon the apprentice. 

"No, I am his porter, " replied the other. 

"What, Blaize!" replied Pillichody. "Thunder and lightning! don't youremember Bernard Boutefeu, the watchman?"

"I don't remember any watchman of that name, and I cannot discern yourfeatures, " rejoined Blaize. "But your voice sounds familiar to me. Whatare you doing there?"

"I have been trying to prevent Leonard Holt from carrying off yourmaster's daughter, the fair Mistress Amabel, " answered Pillichody. "Buthe has accomplished his villanous purpose in spite of me. "

"The devil he has!" cried Blaize. "Here is a pretty piece of news for mymaster. But how did you discover him?"

"Chancing to pass along the entry on the other side of that wall about aquarter of an hour ago, " returned Pillichody, "I perceived a rope-ladderfastened to it, and wishing to ascertain what was the matter, I mountedit, and had scarcely got over into the yard, when I saw two personsadvancing. I concealed myself beneath the shadow of the wall, and theydid not notice me; but I gathered from their discourse who they were andwhat was their design. I allowed Amabel to ascend, but just as theapprentice was following, I laid hold of the skirt of his doublet, and, pulling him back, desired him to come with me to his master. He answeredby drawing his sword, and would have stabbed me, but I closed with him, and should have secured him if my foot had not slipped. While I was onthe ground, he dealt me a severe blow, and ran after his mistress. "

"Just like him, " replied Blaize. "He took the same cowardly advantage ofme last night. "

"No punishment will be too severe for him, " rejoined Pillichody, "and Ihope your master will make a terrible example of him. "

"How fortunate I was not gone to bed!" exclaimed Blaize, "I had justtaken a couple of rufuses, and was about to put on my nightcap, when, hearing a noise without, and being ever on the alert to defend mymaster's property, even at the hazard of my life, I stepped forth andfound you. "

"I will bear testimony to your vigilance and courage, " returnedPillichody; "but you had better go and alarm your master, I will waithere. "

"Instantly I-instantly!" cried Blaize, rushing upstairs. 

On the way to Mr. Bloundel's chamber, he met Patience, and told her whathe had heard. She was inclined to put a very different construction onthe story; but as she bore the apprentice no particular good-will, shedetermined to keep her opinion to herself, and let affairs take theircourse. The grocer was soon aroused, and scarcely able to credit theporter's intelligence, and yet fearing something must be wrong, hehastily attired himself, and proceeded to Amabel's room. It was empty, and it was evident from the state in which everything was left, that shehad never retired to rest. Confounded by the sight, Bloundel thenhurried downstairs in search of the apprentice, but he was nowhere to befound. By this time, Mrs. Bloundel had joined him, and on hearingBlaize's story, utterly scouted it. 

"It cannot be, " she cried. "Leonard could have no motive for actingthus. He had our consent to the union, and the sole obstacle to it wasAmabel herself. Is it likely he would run away with her?"

"I am sure I do not know, " replied Patience, "but he was desperately inlove, that's certain; and when people are in love, I am told they dovery strange and unaccountable things. Perhaps he may have carried heroff against her will. "

"Very likely, " rejoined Blaize. "I thought I heard a scream, and shouldhave called out at the moment, but a rufus stuck in my throat andprevented me. "

"Where is the person who says he intercepted them?" asked Bloundel. 

"In the yard, " answered Blaize. 

"Bid him come hither, " rejoined his master. "Stay, I will go to himmyself. "

With this, the whole party, including old Josyna and Stephen--the twoboys and little Christiana not having been disturbed--proceeded to theyard, where they found Pillichody in his watchman's dress, who relatedhis story more circumstantially than before. 

"I don't believe a word of it, " cried Mrs. Bloundel; "and I will stakemy life it is one of the Earl of Rochester's tricks. "

"Were I assured that such was the case, " said the grocer, in a sternwhisper to his wife, "I would stir no further in the matter. My threatto Amabel was not an idle one. "

"I may be mistaken, " returned Mrs. Bloundel, almost at her wit's endwith anxiety. "Don't mind what I say. Judge for yourself. Oh dear! what_will_ become of her?" she mentally ejaculated. 

"Lanterns and links!" cried Pillichody. "Do you mean to impeach myveracity, good mistress? I am an old soldier, and as tenacious of myhonour as your husband is of his credit. "

"This blustering will not serve your turn, fellow, " observed the grocer, seizing him by the collar. "I begin to suspect my wife is in the right, and will at all events detain you. "

"Detain me! on what ground?" asked Pillichody. 

"As an accomplice in my daughter's abduction, " replied Bloundel. "Here, Blaize--Stephen, hold him while I call the watch. This is a mostmysterious affair, but I will soon get at the bottom of it. "

By the grocer's directions, Pillichody, who very quietly entered thehouse, and surrendered his halberd to Blaize, was taken to the kitchen. Bloundel then set forth, leaving Stephen on guard at the yard door, while his wife remained in the shop, awaiting his return. 

On reaching the kitchen with the prisoner, Blaize besought his mother, who, as well as Patience, had accompanied him thither, to fetch a bottleof sack. While she went for the wine, and the porter was stalking to andfro before the door with the halberd on his shoulder, Patience whisperedto Pillichody, "I know who you are. You came here last night with theEarl of Rochester in the disguise of a quack doctor. "

"Hush!" cried Pillichody, placing his finger on his lips. 

"I am not going to betray you, " returned Patience, in the same tone. "But you are sure to be found out, and had better beat a retreat beforeMr. Bloundel returns. "

"I won't lose a moment, " replied Pillichody, starting to his feet. 

"What's the matter?" cried Blaize, suddenly halting. 

"I only got up to see whether the wine was coming, " replied Pillichody. 

"Yes, here it is, " replied Blaize, as his mother reappeared; "and nowyou shall have a glass of such sack as you never yet tasted. "

And pouring out a bumper, he offered it to Pillichody. The latter tookthe glass; but his hand shook so violently that he could not raise it tohis lips. 

"What ails you, friend?" inquired Blaize, uneasily. 

"I don't know, " replied Pillichody; "but I feel extremely unwell. "

"He looks to me as if he had got the plague, " observed Patience, toBlaize. 

"The plague!" exclaimed the latter, letting fall the glass, whichshivered to pieces on the stone floor. "And I have touched him. Where isthe vinegar-bottle? I must sprinkle myself directly, and rub myself fromhead to foot with oil of hartshorn and spirits of sulphur. Mother! dearmother! you have taken away my medicine-chest. If you love me, go andfetch me a little conserve of Roman wormwood and mithridate. You willfind them in two small jars. "

"Oh yes, do, " cried Patience; "or he may die with fright. "

Moved by their joint entreaties, old Josyna again departed; and her backwas no sooner turned, than Patience said in an undertone toPillichody, --"Now is your time. You have not a moment to lose. "

Instantly taking the hint, the other uttered a loud cry, and springingup, caught at Blaize, who instantly dropped the halberd, and fled intoone corner of the room. 

Pillichody then hurried upstairs, while Blaize shouted after him, "Don'ttouch him, Master Stephen. He has got the plague! he has got theplague!"

Alarmed by this outcry, Stephen suffered Pillichody to pass; and thelatter, darting across the yard, mounted the rope-ladder, and quicklydisappeared. A few minutes afterwards, Bloundel returned with the watch, and was greatly enraged when he found that the prisoner had got off. Nolonger doubting that he had been robbed of his daughter by the Earl ofRochester, he could not make up his mind to abandon her to her fate, andhis conflicting feelings occasioned him a night of indescribableanxiety. The party of watch whom he had summoned searched the street forhim, and endeavoured to trace out the fugitives, --but without success;and they returned before daybreak to report their failure. 

About six o'clock, Mr. Bloundel, unable to restrain himself longer, sallied forth with Blaize in search of his daughter and Leonard. Uncertain where to bend his steps, he trusted to chance to direct him, resolved, if he were unsuccessful, to lay a petition for redress beforethe throne. Proceeding along Cheapside, he entered Paternoster-row, andtraversed it till he came to Paul's Alley, --a narrow passage leading tothe north-west corner of the cathedral. Prompted by an unaccountableimpulse, he no sooner caught sight of the reverend structure, than hehastened, towards it, and knocked against the great northern door. 

We shall, however, precede him, and return to the party at the altar. The awful warning of Solomon Eagle so alarmed Quatremain, that he letfall his prayer-book, and after gazing vacantly round for a few moments, staggered to one of the stalls, where, feeling a burning pain in hisbreast, he tore open his doublet, and found that the enthusiast hadspoken the truth, and that he was really attacked by the pestilence. Asto Amabel, on hearing the terrible denunciation, she uttered a loud cry, and would have fallen to the ground but for the timely assistance of theapprentice, who caught her with one arm, while with the other hedefended himself against the earl and his companions. 

But, in spite of his resistance, they would have soon compelled him torelinquish his charge, if Solomon Eagle, who had hitherto contentedhimself with gazing sternly on what was passing, had not interfered;and, rushing towards the combatants, seized Rochester and Etherege, andhurled them backwards with almost supernatural force. When they arose, and menaced him with their swords, he laughed loudly and contemptuously, crying, "Advance, if ye dare! and try your strength against one armed byHeaven, and ye will find how far it will avail. "

At this juncture, Leonard Holt heard a musical voice behind him, andturning, beheld Nizza Macascree. She beckoned him to follow her; and, raising Amabel in his arms, he ran towards the door leading to SaintFaith's, through which his conductress passed. All this was the work ofa moment, and when Rochester and Etherege, who rushed after him, triedthe door, they found it fastened withinside. 

Just then, a loud knocking was heard at the northern entrance of thecathedral, and a verger answering the summons, Mr. Bloundel and Blaizewere admitted. On beholding the newcomers, Rochester and his companionswere filled with confusion. Equally astonished at the recounter, thegrocer grasped his staff, and rushing up to the earl, demanded, in avoice that made the other, despite his natural audacity, quail--"Whereis my child, my lord? What have you done with her?"

"I know nothing about her, " replied Rochester, with affectedcarelessness. --"Yes, I am wrong, " he added, as if recollecting himself;"lam told she has run away with your apprentice. "

Pillichody, who had changed his attire since his escape from thegrocer's dwelling, thought he might now venture to address him withoutfear of discovery, and, setting his arms a-kimbo, and assuming aswaggering demeanour, strutted forward and said, "Your daughter has justbeen wedded to Leonard Holt, Mr. Bloundel. "

"It is false, " cried Bloundel, "as false as the character you justpersonated, for I recognise you as the knave who recently appearedbefore me as a watchman. "

"I pledge you my word as a nobleman, " interposed Rochester, "that yourdaughter has just descended to Saint Faith's with your apprentice. "

"I can corroborate his lordship's assertion, " said Etherege. 

"And I, " added Pillichody. "By the holy apostle to whom this fane isdedicated! it is so. "

"To convince you that we speak the truth, we will go with you and assistyou to search, " said Rochester. 

Attaching little credit to what he heard, and yet unwilling to lose achance of recovering his daughter, the grocer rushed to the doorindicated by his informant, but found it fastened. 

"You had better go to the main entrance, " said one of the vergers; "Ihave the keys with me, and will admit you. "

"I will keep guard here till you return, " said another verger

Accompanied by Rochester and Etherege, Bloundel then proceeded to thechief door of the subterranean church. It was situated at the south ofthe cathedral, between two of the larger buttresses, and at the foot ofa flight of stone steps. On reaching it, the verger produced his keys, but they were of no avail, for the door was barred withinside. Aftermany fruitless attempts to obtain admission, they were fain to give upthe attempt. 

"Well, if we cannot get in, no one shall get out, " observed the verger. "The only key that opens this door is in my possession, so we have themsafe enough. "

The party then returned to the cathedral, where they found Blaize, Pillichody, and the two other vergers keeping watch at the door near thechoir. No one had come forth. 

Rochester then walked apart with his companions, while Bloundel, feelingsecure so long as he kept the earl in view, folded his arms upon hisbreast, and determined to await the result. 

By this time, the doors being opened, a great crowd was soon collectedwithin the sacred structure. Saint Paul's Churchyard, as is well known, was formerly the great mart for booksellers, who have not, even in latertimes, deserted the neighbourhood, but still congregate inPaternoster-row, Ave-Maria-lane, and the adjoining streets. At theperiod of this history they did not confine themselves to the precinctsof the cathedral, but, as has been previously intimated, fixed theirshops against the massive pillars of its nave. Besides booksellers, there were seamstresses, tobacco-merchants, vendors of fruit andprovisions, and Jews--all of whom had stalls within the cathedral, andwho were now making preparations for the business of the day. Shortlyafterwards, numbers who came for recreation and amusement made theirappearance, and before ten o'clock, Paul's Walk, as the nave was termed, was thronged, by apprentices, rufflers, porters, water-carriers, higglers, with baskets on their heads, or under their arms, fish-wives, quack-doctors, cutpurses, bonarobas, merchants, lawyers, andserving-men, who came to be hired, and who stationed themselves near anoaken block attached to one of the pillars, and which was denominated, from the use it was put to, the "serving-man's log. " Some of the crowdwere smoking, some laughing, others gathering round a ballad-singer, whowas chanting one of Rochester's own licentious ditties; some were buyingquack medicines and remedies for the plague, the virtues of which thevendor loudly extolled; while others were paying court to the dames, many of whom were masked. Everything seemed to be going forward withinthis sacred place, except devotion. Here, a man, mounted on the carvedmarble of a monument, bellowed forth the news of the Dutch war, whileanother, not far from him, on a bench, announced in lugubrious accentsthe number of those who had died on the previous day of the pestilence. There, at the very font, was a usurer paying over a sum of money to agallant--it was Sir Paul Parravicin--who was sealing a bond for thricethe amount of the loan. There, a party of choristers, attended by atroop of boys, were pursuing another gallant, who had ventured into thecathedral booted and spurred, and were demanding "spur-money" of him--anexaction which they claimed as part of their perquisites. 

An admirable picture of this curious scene has been given by BishopEarle, in his _Microcosmographia_, published in 1629. "Paul's Walk, " hewrites, "is the land's epitome, or you may call it the lesser isle ofGreat Britain. It is more than this--it is the whole world's map, whichyou may here discern in its perfectest motion, jostling and turning. Itis a heap of stones and men, with a vast confusion of languages; andwere the steeple not sanctified, nothing could be liker Babel. The noisein it is like that of bees, a strange humming, or buzzing, mixed ofwalking, tongues, and feet: it is a kind of still roar, or loud whisper. It is the great exchange of all discourse, and no business whatsoever, but is here stirring and afoot. It is the synod of all parts politic, jointed and laid together in most serious posture, and they are not halfso busy at the Parliament. It is the market of young lecturers, whom youmay cheapen here at all rates and sizes. It is the general mint of allfamous lies, which are here, like the legends of Popery, first coinedand stamped in the church. All inventions are emptied here, and not afew pockets. The best sign of the Temple in it is that it is thethieves' sanctuary, who rob more safely in a crowd than a wilderness, while every pillar is a bush to hide them. It is the other expense ofthe day, after plays and taverns; and men have still some oaths to swearhere. The visitants are all men without exceptions; but the principalinhabitants are stale knights and captains out of service, men of longrapiers and short purses, who after all turn merchants here, and trafficfor news. Some make it a preface to their dinner, and travel for anappetite; but thirstier men make it their ordinary, and board here verycheap. Of all such places it is least haunted by hobgoblins, for if aghost would walk here, he could not. "

Decker, moreover, terms Paul's Walk, or the "Mediterranean Isle, " in his"Gull's Hornbook"--"the only gallery wherein the pictures of all yourtrue fashionate and complimental gulls are, and ought to be, hung up. "After giving circumstantial directions for the manner of entering thewalk, he proceeds thus: "Bend your course directly in the middle linethat the whole body of the church may appear to be yours, where in viewof all, you may publish your suit in what manner you affect most, eitherwith the slide of your cloak from the one shoulder or the other. " Hethen recommends the gull, after four or five turns in the nave, tobetake himself to some of the semsters' shops the new tobacco office, orthe booksellers' stalls, "where, if you cannot read, exercise yoursmoke, and inquire who has written against the divine weed. " Such, orsomething like it, was Paul's Walk at the period of this history. 

The grocer, who had not quitted his post, remained a silent andsorrowful spectator of the scene. Despite his anxiety, he could not helpmoralizing upon it, and it furnished him with abundant food forreflection. As to Rochester and his companions, they mingled with thecrowd--though the earl kept a wary eye on the door--chatted with theprettiest damsels--listened to the newsmongers, and broke their fast atthe stall of a vendor of provisions, who supplied them with tolerableviands, and a bottle of excellent Rhenish. Blaize was soon drawn away byone of the quacks, and, in spite of his master's angry looks, he couldnot help purchasing one of the infallible antidotes offered for sale bythe charlatan. Parravicin had no sooner finished his business with theusurer than he strolled along the nave, and was equally surprised anddelighted at meeting with his friends, who briefly explained to him whythey were there. 

"And how do you expect the adventure to terminate?" asked Parravicin, laughing heartily at the recital. 

"Heaven knows, " replied the earl. "But what are you doing here?"

"I came partly to replenish my purse, for I have had a run of ill luckof late, " replied the knight; "and partly to see a most beautifulcreature, whom I accidentally discovered here yesterday. "

"A new beauty!" cried Rochester. "Who is she?"

"Before I tell you, you must engage not to interfere with me, " repliedParravicin. "I have marked her for my own. "

"Agreed, " replied Rochester. "Now, her name?"

"She is the daughter of a blind piper, who haunts the cathedral, "replied Parravicin, "and her name is Nizza Macascree. Is it notcharming? But you shall see her. "

"We must not go too far from the door of Saint Faith's, " rejoinedRochester. "Can you not contrive to bring her hither?"

"That is more easily said than done, " replied Parravicin. "She is as coyas the grocer's daughter. However, I will try to oblige you. "

With this, he quitted his companions, and returning shortly afterwards, said, "My mistress has likewise disappeared. I found the old piperseated at the entrance of Bishop Kempe's chapel, attended by hisdog--but he missed his daughter when he awoke in the morning, and is ingreat trouble about her. "

"Strange!" cried Etherege; "I begin to think the place is enchanted. "

"It would seem so, indeed, " replied Rochester. 

While they were thus conversing, Pillichody, who was leaning against acolumn, with his eye fixed upon the door leading to Saint Faith's, observed it open, and the apprentice issue from it accompanied by twomasked females. All three attempted to dart across the transept and gainthe northern entrance, but they were Intercepted. Mr. Bloundel caughthold of Leonard's arm, and Rochester seized her whom he judged by thegarb to be Amabel, while Parravicin, recognising Nizza Macascree, as hethought, by her dress, detained her. 

"What is the meaning of all this, Leonard?" demanded the grocer, angrily. 

"You shall have an explanation instantly, " replied the apprentice; "butthink not of me--think only of your daughter. "

"My father!--my father!" cried the damsel, who had been detained byParravicin, taking off her mask, and rushing towards the grocer. 

"Who then have I got?" cried Rochester. 

"The piper's daughter, I'll be sworn, " replied Etherege. 

"You are right, " replied Nizza, unmasking. "I changed dresses withAmabel, and hoped by so doing to accomplish her escape, but we have beenbaffled. However, as her father is here, it is of little consequence. "

"Amabel, " said the grocer, repulsing her, "before I receive you again, Imust be assured that you have not been alone with the Earl ofRochester. "

"She has not, sir, " replied the apprentice. "Visit your displeasure onmy head. I carried her off and would have wedded her. "

"What motive had you for this strange conduct?" asked Bloundel, incredulously. 

Before Leonard could answer, Pillichody stepped forward, and said to thegrocer, "Mr. Bloundel, you are deceived--on the faith of a soldier youare. "

"Peace, fool!" said Rochester, "I will not be outdone in generosity byan apprentice. Leonard Holt speaks the truth. "

"If so, " replied Bloundel, "he shall never enter my house again. Sendfor your indentures to-night, " he continued sharply, to Leonard, "butnever venture to approach me more. "

"Father, you are mistaken, " cried Amabel. "Leonard Holt is not to blame. I alone deserve your displeasure. "

"Be silent!" whispered the apprentice; "you destroy yourself. I care notwhat happens to me, provided you escape the earl. "

"Come home, mistress, " cried the grocer, dragging her through the crowdwhich had gathered round them. 

"Here is a pretty conclusion to the adventure!" cried Parravicin; "butwhere is the apprentice--and where is the pretty Nizza Macascree? 'Foreheaven, " he added, as he looked around for them in vain, "I should notwonder if they have eloped together. "

"Nor I, " replied Rochester. "I admire the youth's spirit, and trust hemay be more fortunate with his second mistress than with his first. "

"It shall be my business to prevent that, " rejoined Parravicin. "Help meto search for her. "

 * * * * *

VIII. 

THE AMULET. 

As the grocer disappeared with his daughter, Nizza Macascree, who hadanxiously watched the apprentice, observed him turn deadly pale, andstagger; and instantly springing to his side, she supported him to aneighbouring column, against which he leaned till he had in some degreerecovered from the shock. He then accompanied her to Bishop Kempe'sbeautiful chapel in the northern aisle, where she expected to find herfather; but it was empty. 

"He will be back presently, " said Nizza. "He is no doubt making therounds of the cathedral. Bell will take care of him. Sit down on thatbench while I procure you some refreshment. You appear much in need ofit. "

And without waiting for a reply, she ran off, and presently afterwardsreturned with a small loaf of bread and a bottle of beer. 

"I cannot eat, " said Leonard, faintly. But seeing that his kind providerlooked greatly disappointed, he swallowed a few mouthfuls, and raisedthe bottle to his lips. As he did so, a sudden feeling of sicknessseized him, and he set it down untasted. 

"What ails you?" asked Nizza, noticing his altered looks withuneasiness. 

"I know not, " he replied. "I have never felt so ill before. "

"I thought you were suffering from agitation, " she rejoined, as afearful foreboding crossed her. 

"I shall be speedily released from further trouble, " replied theapprentice. "I am sure I am attacked by the plague. "

"Oh! say not so!" she rejoined. "You may be mistaken. "

But though she tried to persuade herself she spoke the truth, her heartcould not be deceived. 

"I scarcely desire to live, " replied the apprentice, in a melancholytone, "for life has lost all charms for me. But do not remain here, oryou may be infected by the distemper. "

"I will never leave you, " she hastily rejoined; "that is, " she added, checking herself, "till I have placed you in charge of some one who willwatch over you. "

"No one will watch over me, " returned Leonard. "My master has dismissedme from his service, and I have no other friend left. If you will tellone of the vergers what is the matter with me, he will summon theExaminer of Health, who will bring a litter to convey me to thepest-house. "

"If you go thither your fate is sealed, " replied Nizza. 

"I have said I do not desire to live, " returned the apprentice. 

"Do not indulge in these gloomy thoughts, or you are certain to bringabout a fatal result, " said Nizza. "Would I knew how to aid you! But Istill hope you are deceived as to the nature of your attack. "

"I cannot be deceived, " replied Leonard, whose countenance proclaimedthe anguish he endured. "Doctor Hodges, I think, is interested aboutme, " he continued, describing the physician's residence--"if you willinform him of my seizure, he may, perhaps, come to me. "

"I will fly to him instantly, " replied Nizza; and she was about to quitthe chapel, when she was stopped by Parravicin and his companions. 

"Let me pass, " she said, trying to force her way through them. 

"Not so fast, fair Nizza, " rejoined Parravicin, forcing her back, "Imust have a few words with you. Have I overrated her charms?" he addedto Rochester. "Is she not surpassingly beautiful?"

"In good sooth she is, " replied the earl, gazing at her with admiration. 

"By the nut-brown skin of Cleopatra!" cried Pillichody, "she beats Mrs. Disbrowe, Sir Paul. "

"I have never seen any one so lovely, " said the knight, attempting topress her hand to his lips. 

"Release me, sir, " cried Nizza, struggling to free herself. 

"Not till I have told you how much I love you, " returned the knight, ardently. 

"Love me!" she echoed, scornfully. 

"Yes, love you, " reiterated Parravicin. "It would be strange if I, whoprofess myself so great an admirer of beauty, did otherwise. I ampassionately enamoured of you. If you will accompany me, fair Nizza, youshall change your humble garb for the richest attire that gold canpurchase, shall dwell in a magnificent mansion, and have troops ofservants at your command. In short, my whole fortune, together withmyself, shall be placed at your disposal. "

"Do not listen to him, Nizza, " cried Leonard Holt, in a faint voice. 

"Be assured I will not, " she answered. "Your insulting proposal onlyheightens the disgust I at first conceived for you, " she added to theknight: "I reject it with scorn, and command you to let me pass. "

"Nay, if you put on these airs, sweetheart, " replied Parravicin, insolently, "I must alter my tone likewise. I am not accustomed to playthe humble suitor to persons of your condition. "

"Perhaps not, " replied Nizza; "neither am I accustomed to thisunwarrantable usage. Let me go. My errand is one of life and death. Donot hinder me, or you will have a heavy crime on your soul--heavier, itmay be, than any that now loads it. "

"Where are you going?" asked Parravicin, struck by her earnest manner. 

"To fetch assistance, " she replied, "for one suddenly assailed by thepestilence. "

"Ah!" exclaimed the knight, trembling, and relinquishing his grasp. "Mypath is ever crossed by that hideous spectre. Is it your father who isthus attacked?"

"No, " she replied, pointing to Leonard, "it is that youth. "

"The apprentice!" exclaimed Rochester. "I am sorry for him. Let us begone, " he added to his companions. "It may be dangerous to remain herelonger. "

With this they all departed except Parravicin. 

"Come with us, Nizza, " said the latter; "we will send assistance to thesufferer. "

"I have already told you my determination, " she rejoined; "I will notstir a footstep with you. And if you have any compassion in your nature, you will not detain me longer. "

"I will not leave you here to certain destruction, " said the knight. "You shall come with me whether you will or not. "

And as he spoke, he advanced towards her, while she retreated towardsLeonard, who, rising with difficulty, placed himself between her and herpersecutor. 

"If you advance another footstep, " cried the apprentice, "I will flingmyself upon you, and the contact may be fatal. "

Parravicin gazed, furiously at him, and half unsheathed his sword. Butthe next moment he returned it to the scabbard, and exclaiming, "Anothertime! another time!" darted after his companions. 

He was scarcely gone, when Leonard reeled against the wall, and beforeNizza could catch him, fell in a state of insensibility on the floor. 

After vainly attempting to raise him, Nizza flew for assistance, and hadjust passed through the door of the chapel, when she met Judith Malmaynsand Chowles. She instantly stopped them, and acquainting them with theapprentice's condition, implored them to take charge of him while shewent in search of Doctor Hodges. 

"Before you go, " said Judith, "let me make sure that he is attacked bythe plague. It may be some other disorder. "

"I hope so, indeed, " said Nizza, pausing; "but I fear the contrary. "

So saying, she returned with them to the chapel. Raising the apprenticewith the greatest ease, Judith tore open his doublet. 

"Your suspicion is correct, " she said, with a malignant smile. "Here isthe fatal sign upon his breast. "

"I will fetch Doctor Hodges instantly, " cried Nizza. 

"Do so, " replied Judith; "we will convey him to the vaults in SaintFaith's, where poor Mr. Quatremain has just been taken. He will bebetter there than in the pest-house. "

"Anything is better than that, " said Nizza, shuddering. 

As soon as she was gone, Chowles took off his long black cloak, and, throwing it over the apprentice, laid him at full length upon the bench, and, assisted by Judith, carried him towards the choir. As theyproceeded, Chowles called out, "Make way for one sick of the plague!"and the crowd instantly divided, and gave them free passage. In this waythey descended to Saint Faith's, and, shaping their course to the vault, deposited their burden on the very bed lately occupied by theunfortunate sexton. 

"He has come here to die, " observed Judith to her companion. "His attackis but a slight one, and he might with care recover. But I can bargainwith the Earl of Rochester for his removal. "

"Take heed how you make such a proposal to his lordship, " returnedChowles. "From what I have seen, he is likely to, revolt at it. "

"Every man is glad to get rid of a rival, " rejoined Judith. 

"Granted, " replied Chowles; "but no man will _pay_ for the riddance whenthe plague will accomplish it for him for nothing. "

"With due attention, I would answer for that youth's recovery, " saidJudith. "It is not an incurable case, like Mr. Quatremain's. And soDoctor Hodges, when he comes, will pronounce it. "

Shortly after this, Nizza Macaseree appeared with a countenance fraughtwith anxiety, and informed them that Doctor Hodges was from home, andwould not probably return till late at night. 

"That's unfortunate, " said Judith. "Luckily, however, there are otherdoctors in London, and some who understand the treatment of the plaguefar better than he does--Sibbald, the apothecary of Clerkenwell, forinstance. "

"Do you think Sibbald would attend him?" asked Nizza, eagerly. 

"To be sure he would, " replied Mrs. Malmayns, "if he were paid for it. But you seem greatly interested about this youth. I have been young, andknow what effect good looks and a manly deportment have upon our sex. Hehas won your heart! Ha! ha! You need not seek to disguise it. Yourblushes answer for you. "

"A truce to this, " cried Nizza, whose cheeks glowed with shame andanger. 

"You can answer a plain question, I suppose, " returned Judith. "Is hislife dear to you?"

"Dearer than my own?" replied Nizza. 

"I thought as much, " returned Judith. "What will you give me to savehim?"

"I have nothing, " rejoined Nizza, with a troubled look--"nothing butthanks to give you. "

"Think again, " said Judith. "Girls like you, if they have no money, havegenerally some trinket--some valuable in their possession. "

"That is not my case, " said Nizza, bursting into tears. "I neverreceived a present in my life, and never desired one till now. "

"But your father must have some money?" said Judith, inquisitively. 

"I know not, " replied Nizza, "but I will ask him. What sum will contentyou?"

"Bring all you can, " returned Judith, "and I will do my best. "

Nizza then departed, while Judith, with the assistance of Chowles, covered Leonard with blankets, and proceeded to light a fire. Longbefore this, the sick youth was restored to animation. But he was quitelight-headed and unconscious of his situation, and rambled about Amabeland her father. After administering such remedies as she thought fit, and as were at hand, Judith sat down with the coffin-maker beside asmall table, and entered into conversation with him. 

"Well, " said Chowles, in an indifferent tone, as he poured out a glassof brandy, "is it to be kill or cure?"

"I have not decided, " replied Judith, pledging him. 

"I still do not see what gain there would be in shortening his career, "observed Chowles. 

"If there would be no gain, there would be gratification, " repliedJudith. "He has offended me. "

"If that is the case, I have nothing further to say, " returned Chowles. "But you promised the piper's daughter to save him. "

"We shall see what she offers, " rejoined Judith; "all will depend uponthat. "

"It is extraordinary, " observed Chowles, after a pause, "that while allaround us are sick or dying of the pestilence, we should escapecontagion. "

"We are not afraid of it, " replied Judith. "Besides, we are part of theplague ourselves. But I _have_ been attacked, and am, therefore, safe. "

"True, " replied Chowles; "I had forgotten that. Well, if I fall ill, youSha'n't nurse me. "

"You won't be able to help yourself then, " returned Judith. 

"Eh!" exclaimed Chowles, shifting uneasily on his seat. 

"Don't be afraid, " returned Judith, laughing at his alarm. "I'll takeevery care of you. We are necessary to each other. "

"So we are, " replied Chowles; "so we are; and if nothing else could, that consideration would make us true to each other. "

"Of course, " assented Judith. "Let us reap as rich a harvest as we can, and when the scourge is over, we can enjoy ourselves upon the spoils. "

"Exactly so, " replied Chowles. "My business is daily-hourly on theincrease. My men are incessantly employed, and my only fear is that anorder will be issued to bury the dead without coffins. "

"Not unlikely, " replied Mrs. Malmayns. "But there are plenty of ways ofgetting money in a season like this. If one fails, we must resort toanother. I shall make all I can, and in the shortest manner. "

"Right!" cried Chowles, with, an atrocious laugh. "Right! ha! ha!"

"I have found out a means of propagating the distemper, " pursued Judith, in a low tone, and with a mysterious air, "of inoculating whomsoever Iplease with the plague-venom. I have tried the experiment on Mr. Quatremain and that youth, and you see how well it has answered in bothinstances. "

"I do, " replied Chowles, looking askance at her. "But why destroy thepoor minor canon?"

"Because I want to get hold of the treasure discovered by the help ofthe Mosaical rods in Saint Faith's, which by right belonged to myhusband, and which is now in Mr. Quatremain's possession, " repliedJudith. 

"I understand, " nodded Chowles. 

While they were thus conversing, Nizza Macascree again returned, andinformed them that she could not find her father. "He has left thecathedral, " she said, "and will not, probably, return till nightfall. "

"I am sorry for it, on your account, " observed Judith, coldly. 

"Why, you will not have the cruelty to neglect the poor young man tillthen--you will take proper precautions?" exclaimed Nizza. 

"Why should I exert myself for one about whose recovery I amindifferent?" said Judith. 

"Why?" exclaimed Nizza. "But it is in vain to argue with you. I mustappeal to your avarice, since you are deaf to the pleadings of humanity. I have just bethought me that I have an old gold coin, which was givenme years ago by my father. He told me it had been my mother's, andcharged me not to part with it. I never should have done so, except inan emergency like the present. "

As she spoke, she drew from her bosom a broad gold piece. A hole wasbored through it, and it was suspended from her neck by a chain oftwisted hair. 

"Let me look at it, " said Judith taking the coin. "Who gave you this?"she asked, in an altered tone. 

"My father?" replied Nizza; "I have just told you so. It was mymother's. "

"Impossible!" exclaimed Judith!

"Have you ever seen it before?" inquired Nizza, astonished at the changein the nurse's manner. 

"I have, " replied Judith, "and in very different hands. "

"You surprise me, " cried Nizza. "Explain yourself, I beseech you. "

"Not now--not now, " cried Judith, hastily returning the coin. "And thisis to be mine in case I cure the youth?"

"I have said so, " replied Nizza. 

"Then make yourself easy, " rejoined Judith; "he shall be well again inless than two days. "

With this, she set a pan on the fire, and began to prepare a poultice, the materials for which she took from a small oaken chest in one cornerof the vault. Nizza looked on anxiously, and while they were thusemployed, a knock was heard at the door, and Chowles opening it, foundthe piper and one of the vergers. 

"Ah! is it you, father?" cried Nizza, rushing to him. 

"I am glad I have found you, " returned the piper, "for I began to fearsome misfortune must have befallen you. Missing you in the morning, Itraversed the cathedral in search of you with Bell, well knowing, if youwere in the crowd, she would speedily discover you. "

His daughter then hastily recounted what had happened. When the piperheard that she had promised the piece of gold to the plague-nurse, acloud came over his open countenance. 

"You must never part with it, " he said--"never. It is an amulet, and ifyou lose it, or give it away, your good luck will go with it. "

"Judith Malmayns says she has seen it before, " rejoined Nizza. 

"No such thing, " cried the piper hastily, "she knows nothing about it. But come with me. You must not stay here longer. "

"But, father--dear father!--I want a small sum to pay the nurse forattending this poor young man, " cried Nizza. 

"I have no money, " replied the piper; "and if I had, I should not throwit away in so silly a manner. Come along; I shall begin think you are inlove with the youth. "

"Then you will not be far wide of the mark, " observed Judith, coarsely. 

The piper uttered an angry exclamation, and taking his daughter's hand, dragged her out of the vault. 

"You will not get your fee, " laughed Chowles, as they were left alone. 

"So it appears, " replied Judith, taking the pan from the fire; "there isno use in wasting a poultice. "

Shortly after this, the door of the vault again opened, and Parravicinlooked in. He held a handkerchief sprinkled with vinegar to his face, and had evidently, from the manner in which he spoke, some antidoteagainst the plague in his mouth. 

"Nizza Macascree has been here, has she not?" he asked. 

"She has just left with her father, " replied Judith. 

Parravicin beckoned her to follow him, and led the way to the northaisle of Saint Faith's. 

"Is the apprentice likely to recover?" he asked. 

"Humph!" exclaimed Judith; "that depends upon circumstances. NizzaMacascree offered me a large reward to cure him. "

"Is he any connexion of hers?" asked the knight, sharply. 

"None whatever, " returned Judith, with a significant smile. "But he maypossibly be so. "

"I thought as much, " muttered the knight. 

"He never _shall_ recover, " said Judith, halting, and speaking in a lowtone, "if you make it worth my while. "

"You read my wishes, " replied Parravicin, in a sombre tone. "Take thispurse, and free me from him. "

"He will never more cross your path, " replied Judith, eagerly graspingthe reward. 

"Enough!" exclaimed Parravicin. "What has passed between us must besecret. "

"As the grave which shall soon close over the victim, " she rejoined. 

Parravicin shuddered, and hurried away, while Judith returned at a slowpace, and chinking the purse as she went to the vault. 

She had scarcely passed through the door, when Nizza Macascree appearedfrom behind one of the massive pillars. "This dreadful crime must beprevented, " she cried--"but how? If I run to give the alarm, it may beexecuted, and no one will believe me. I will try to prevent it myself. "

Crossing the channel, she was about to enter the vault, when Chowlesstepped forth. She shrank backwards, and allowed him to pass, and thentrying the door, found it unfastened. 

IX. 

HOW LEONARD WAS CURED OF THE PLAGUE. 

Nizza Macascree found Judith leaning over her intended victim, andexamining the plague-spot on his breast. The nurse was so occupied byher task that she did not hear the door open, and it was not until thepiper's daughter was close beside her, that she was aware of herpresence. Hastily drawing the blankets over the apprentice, she thenturned, and regarded Nizza with a half-fearful, half-menacing look. 

"What brings you here again?" she inquired, sharply. 

"Ask your own heart, and it will tell you, " rejoined Nizza, boldly. "Iam come to preserve the life of this poor youth. "

"If you think you can nurse him better than I can, you can take my placeand welcome, " returned Judith, affecting not to understand her; "I haveplenty of other business to attend to, and should be glad to be releasedfrom the trouble. "

"Can she already have effected her fell purpose?" thought Nizza, gazingat the apprentice, whose perturbed features proclaimed that his slumberprocured him no rest from suffering. "No--no--she has not had time. Iaccept your offer, " she added, aloud. 

"But what will your father say to this arrangement?" asked Judith. 

"When he knows my motive, he will not blame me, " answered Nizza. "Here Itake my place, " she continued, seating herself, "and will not quit ittill he is out of danger. "

"Your love for this youth borders upon insanity, " cried Judith, angrily. "You shall not destroy yourself thus. "

"Neither shall you destroy him, " retorted Nizza. "It is to prevent thecommission of the crime you meditate, and for which you have been_paid_, that I am determined to remain with him. "

As she said this, a singular and frightful change took place in thenurse's appearance. A slight expression of alarm was at first visible, but it was instantly succeeded by a look so savage and vindictive, thatNizza almost repented having provoked the ire of so unscrupulous aperson. But summoning up all her resolution, she returned Judith'sglance with one as stern and steady, if not so malignant as her own. Adeep silence prevailed for a few minutes, during which each fancied shecould read the other's thoughts. In Nizza's opinion, the nurse wasrevolving some desperate expedient, and she kept on her guard, lest anattack should be made upon her life. And some such design did, inreality, cross Judith; but abandoning it as soon as formed, she resolvedto have recourse to more secret, but not less certain measures. 

"Well, " she said, breaking silence, "since you are determined to haveyour own way, and catch the plague, and most likely perish from it, Ishall not try to hinder you. Do what you please, and see what will comeof it. "

And she made as if about to depart; but finding Nizza did not attempt tostop her, she halted. 

"I cannot leave you thus, " she continued; "if you _will_ remain, takethis ointment, " producing a small jar, "and rub the plague-spot with it. It is a sovereign remedy, and will certainly effect a cure. "

"I will not touch it, " returned Nizza. 

"His death, then, be upon your head, " rejoined Judith, quitting thevault, and closing the door after her. 

Greatly relieved by her departure, Nizza began to consider what sheshould do, and whether it would be possible to remove the apprentice tosome safer place. "While occupied with these reflections, the object ofher solicitude heaved a deep sigh, and opening his eyes, fixed them uponher. It was evident, however, that he did not know her, but as far ascould be gathered from his ravings, mistook her for Amabel. By degreeshe grew calmer, and the throbbing anguish of the tumour in some measuresubsiding, his faculties returned to him. 

"Where am I?" he exclaimed, pressing his hand forcibly to his brow, "andwhat is the matter with me?"

"You are in a vault, near Saint Faith's, " replied Nizza, "and--I willnot deceive you--the disorder you are labouring under is the plague. "

"The plague!" echoed Leonard, with a look of horror. "Ah! now Irecollect. I was attacked immediately after Amabel's departure with herfather. Heaven be praised! she is safe. That is some consolation amidall this misery. Could my master behold me now, he would pity me, and soperhaps would his daughter. "

"Heed her not, " rejoined Nizza, in a slightly reproachful tone, "shedoes not deserve consideration. To return to yourself. You are not safehere. Judith Malmayns has been hired to take away your life. Are youable to move hence?"

"I hope so, " replied Leonard, raising himself on his arm. 

"Wrap a blanket round you, then, and follow me, " said Nizza, taking upthe lamp and hastening to the door. "Ah!" she exclaimed, with a cry ofanguish--"it is locked. "

"This building is destined to be my prison, and that treacherous womanmy gaoler, " groaned Leonard, sinking backwards. 

"Do not despair, " cried Nizza; "I will accomplish your deliverance. "

So saying, she tried, by knocking against the door and by loud outcries, to give the alarm. But no answer was returned, and she soon becameconvinced that Judith had fastened the door of the charnel, which, itwill be remembered, lay between the vault and the body of Saint Faith's. Hence, no sound could teach the outer structure. Disturbed by what hadjust occurred. Leonard's senses again wandered; but, exerting all herpowers to tranquillize him, Nizza at last succeeded so well that he sunkinto a slumber. 

Almost regarding his situation as hopeless, she took up the lamp, andsearching the vault, found the pan containing the half-made poultice. The fire smouldered on the hearth, and replenishing it from a scantysupply in one corner, she heated the poultice and applied it to thetumour. This done, she continued her search. But though she foundseveral phials, each bearing the name of some remedy for the pestilence, her distrust of Judith would not allow her to use any of them. Resumingher seat by the couch of the sufferer, and worn out with fatigue andanxiety, she presently dropped asleep. 

She was awakened after awhile by a slight noise near her, and beheldJudith bending over the apprentice, with a pot of ointment in her hand, which she was about to apply to the part affected. The poultice hadalready been removed. Uttering a loud cry, Nizza started to her feet, and snatching the ointment from the nurse, threw it away. As soon as thelatter recovered from her surprise, she seized her assailant, and forcedher into the seat she had just quitted. 

"Stir not till I give you permission, " she cried, fiercely; "I wish tocure this young man, if you will let me. "

"You intend to murder him, " replied Nizza; "but while I live you shallnever accomplish your atrocious purpose. Help! help!" And she uttered aprolonged piercing scream. 

"Peace! or I will strangle you, " cried Judith, compressing Nizza'sslender throat with a powerful gripe. 

And she would, in all probability, have executed her terrible threat, ifa secret door in the wall had not suddenly opened and admitted SolomonEagle. A torch supplied the place of his brazier, and he held it aloft, and threw its ruddy light upon the scene. On seeing him, Judithrelinquished her grasp, and glared at him with a mixture of defiance andapprehension; while Nizza, half dead with terror, instantly rushedtowards him, and throwing herself at his feet, besought him to save her. 

"No harm shall befall you, " replied Solomon Eagle, extending his armover her. "Tell me what has happened. "

Nizza hastily explained the motive of Judith's attack upon her life. Theplague-nurse endeavoured to defend herself, and, in her turn, chargedher accuser with a like attempt. But Solomon Eagle interrupted her. 

"Be silent, false woman!" he cried, "and think not to delude me withthese idle fabrications. I fully believe that you would have taken thelife of this poor youth, and, did I not regard you as one of thenecessary agents of Heaven's vengeance, I would instantly deliver you upto justice. But the measure of your iniquities is not yet filled up. Your former crimes are not unknown to me. Neither is the last dark deed, which you imagined concealed from every human eye, hidden from me. "

"I know not what you mean, " returned Judith, trembling, in spite ofherself. 

"I will tell you, then, " rejoined Solomon Eagle, catching her hand, anddragging her into the furthest corner of the vault. "Give ear to me, " hecontinued, in a low voice, "and doubt, if you can, that I have witnessedwhat I relate. I saw you enter a small chamber behind the vestry, inwhich Thomas Quatremain, who once filled the place of minor canon inthis cathedral, was laid. No one was there beside yourself and the dyingman. Your first business was to search his vestments, and take away hiskeys. "

"Ha!" exclaimed Judith, starting. 

"While securing his keys, " pursued Solomon Eagle, "the owner awakened, and uttered a low, but angry remonstrance. Better he had been silent. Dipping a napkin in an ewer of water that stood beside him, you held thewet cloth over his face, and did not remove it till life was extinct. All this I saw. "

"But you will not reveal it, " said Judith, tremblingly. 

"I will not, " replied Solomon Eagle, "for the reasons I have juststated; namely, that I look upon you as one of the scourges appointed byHeaven. "

"And so I am, " rejoined Judith, with impious exultation; "it is mymission to destroy and pillage, and I will fulfil it. "

"Take heed you do not exceed it, " replied Solomon Eagle. "Lift a fingeragainst either of these young persons, and I will reveal all. Yes, " hecontinued, menacingly, "I will disclose such dreadful things againstyou, that you will assuredly be adjudged to a gibbet higher than thehighest tower of this proud fane. "

"I defy you, wretch!" retorted Judith. "You can prove nothing againstme. "

"Defy me?--ha!" cried Solomon Eagle, with a terrible laugh. "First, " headded, dashing her backwards against the wall--"first, to prove mypower. Next, " he continued, drawing from her pockets a bunch of keys, "to show that I speak the truth. These were taken from the vest of themurdered man. No one, as yet, but ourselves, knows that he is dead. "

"And who shall say which of the two is the murderer?" cried Judith. "Villain! I charge you with the deed. "

"You are, indeed, well fitted for your appointed task, " returned SolomonEagle, gazing at her with astonishment, "for sometimes Heaven, for itsown wise purpose, will allow the children of hell to execute itsvengeance upon earth. But think not you will always thus escape. No, youmay pursue your evil course for a while--you, and your companion incrime; but a day of retribution will arrive for both--a day when yeshall be devoured, living, by flames of fire--when all your sins shallarise before your eyes, and ye shall have no time for repentance--andwhen ye shall pass from one fierce fire to another yet fiercer, andwholly unquenchable!"

As he concluded, he again dashed her against the wall with such violencethat she fell senseless upon the ground. 

"And now, " he said, turning to Nizza Macascree, who looked on in alarmand surprise, "what can I do for you?"

"Bear this youth to a place of safety, " was her answer. 

Solomon Eagle answered by lifting up the pallet upon which Leonard waslaid, with as much ease as if it had been an infant's cradle, andcalling on Nizza to bring the torch, passed with his burden through thesecret door. Directing her to close it after them, he took his way alonea narrow stone passage, until he came to a chink in the wall commandinga small chamber, and desired her to look through it. She obeyed, andbeheld, stretched upon a couch, the corpse of a man. 

"It is Mr. Quatremain, the minor canon, " she said, retiring. 

"It is, " returned Solomon Eagle, "and it will be supposed that he diedof the plague. But his end was accelerated by Judith Malmayns. "

Without allowing her time for reply, he pursued his course, traversinganother long, narrow passage. 

"Where are we?" asked Nizza, as they arrived at the foot of a spiralstone staircase. 

"Beneath the central tower of the cathedral, " replied Solomon Eagle. "Iwill take you to a cell known only to myself, where this youth will bein perfect safety. "

Ascending the staircase, they passed through an arched door, and enteredthe great northern ambulatory. Nizza gazed down for a moment into thenave, but all was buried in darkness, and no sound reached her to giveher an idea that any one was below. Proceeding towards the west, SolomonEagle arrived at a small recess in the wall opposite one of thebroad-arched openings looking into the nave, and entering it, pressedagainst a spring at the further extremity, and a stone door flying open, discovered a secret cell, on the floor of which his brazier was burning. Depositing his burden on the floor, he said to Nizza, "He is now safe. Go in search of proper assistance, and I will watch by him till youreturn. "

Nizza did not require a second exhortation, but quitting the cell, andnoticing its situation, swiftly descended the winding staircase, andhurrying along the northern aisle, proceeded to a small chamber beneaththe tower at its western extremity, which she knew was occupied by oneof the vergers. Speedily arousing him, she told him her errand, andimplored him to remain on the watch till she returned with DoctorHodges. The verger promised compliance; and, opening a wicket in thegreat doorway, allowed her to go forth. A few seconds brought her to thedoctor's dwelling, and though it was an hour after midnight, her summonswas promptly answered by the old porter, who conveyed her message to hismaster. Doctor Hodges had just retired to rest; but, on learning inwhose behalf his services were required, he sprang out of bed, andhastily slipped on his clothes. 

"I would not, for half I am worth, that that poor youth should perish, "he cried. "I take a great interest in him--a very great interest. Hemust not be neglected. How comes he at Saint Paul's, I wonder? But I canobtain information on that point as I go thither. No time must be lost. "

Ruminating thus, he swallowed a glass of sack, and providing himselfwith a case of instruments, and such medicines as he thought he mightrequire, he descended to Nizza. On the way to the cathedral, sheacquainted him with what had befallen Leonard during the lastfour-and-twenty hours, and the only circumstance that she kept back wasJudith's attempt on his life. This she intended to reveal at a morefitting opportunity. The doctor expressed somewhat emphatically hisdisapproval of the conduct of Mr. Bloundel, but promised to set all torights without loss of time. 

"The only difficulty I foresee, " he observed, "is that the poor youth isattacked by the pestilence; and though I may succeed in curing him, hismaster will probably have shut up his house before I can accomplish myobject, in which case, all chance of his union with Amabel will be at anend. "

"So much the better, " rejoined Nizza, sharply; "she does not deservehim. "

"There I agree with you, " returned Hodges. "But could you point out anyone who does?" he added, with a slight but significant laugh. 

No answer was returned; and as they had just reached the portico of thecathedral, they entered the sacred structure in silence. 

As they ascended the winding stairs, loud outcries resounded along theambulatory, and echoed by the vaulted roof of the nave, convinced themthat the sufferer was again in a state of frenzy, produced by fever andthe anguish of his sore; and on reaching the cell they found himstruggling violently with Solomon Eagle, who held him down by mainforce. 

"He is in a fearfully excited state, truly, " observed Hodges, as he drewnear, "and must not be left for a moment, or he will do himself amischief. I must give him a draught to allay the fever, and compose hisnerves--for in this state I dare not have recourse to the lancet. "

With this he dressed the tumour; and pouring the contents of a largephial which he had brought with him in a cup, he held it to the burninglips of the apprentice, who eagerly quaffed it. It was soon apparentthat the dose produced a salutary effect, and a second was administered. Still the sufferer, though calmer, continued to ramble asbefore--complained that his veins were filled with moltenlead--entreated them to plunge him in a stream, so that he might coolhis intolerable thirst, and appeared to be in great agony. Doctor Hodgeswatched by him till daybreak, at which time he sank into a slumber; andSolomon Eagle, who had never till then relinquished his hold of him, nowventured to resign his post. The doctor was then about to depart; but atthe urgent solicitation of Nizza, who had stationed herself at the doorof the cell, he agreed to remain a little longer. 

Two hours after this, the doors of the cathedral were opened, and alarge crowd soon assembled within the nave, as on the preceding day. Thetumult of voices reached the cell and awakened the sleeper. Before hecould be prevented he started from his bed, and dashing aside the feebleopposition offered by Nizza and the doctor, ran along the ambulatory, uttering a loud and fearful cry. Finding the door of the windingstaircase open, he darted through it, and in a few seconds reappeared inthe aisle. Hearing the cries, several persons rushed to meet him; but onbeholding his haggard looks and strange appearance--he was merelywrapped in a blanket, --they instantly recoiled. Mean-time, DoctorHodges, who had run to one of the arched openings looking on the nave, called out to them to secure the fugitive. But all fled at his approach;and when he reached the door of the southern transept, the verger, instead of attempting to stop him, retreated with a cry of alarm. As hepassed through the outlet, one man bolder than the rest caught hold ofhim, and endeavoured to detain him. But, leaving the blanket in hishands, and without other covering than his shirt, the apprentice dashedacross the churchyard--next shaped his course down SaintBennet's-hill--then crossed Thames-street, --and finally speeding alonganother narrow thoroughfare, reached Paul's Wharf. Gazing for a momentat the current sweeping past him--it was high-tide, --he plunged headforemost into it from the high embankment, and on rising to the surface, being a strong and expert swimmer, struck out for the opposite shore. Those who beheld him were filled with amazement; but such was the alarmoccasioned by his appearance, that none ventured to interfere with him. He had not crossed more than a fourth part of the stream when DoctorHodges arrived at the wharf; but neither promises of reward nor threatscould induce any of the watermen to follow him. The humane physicianwould have sprung into a boat, but feeling he should be wholly unable tomanage it, he most reluctantly abandoned his purpose. Scarcely doubtingwhat the result of this rash attempt would be, and yet unable to tearhimself away, he lingered on the wharf till he saw Leonard reach theopposite bank, where an attempt was made by a party of persons to seizehim. But instead of quietly surrendering himself, the apprenticeinstantly leapt into the river again, and began to swim back towards thepoint whence he had started. Amazed at what he saw, the doctor orderedhis servant, who by this time had joined the group, to bring a blanket, and descending to the edge of the river, awaited the swimmer's arrival. In less than ten minutes he had reached the shore, and clambering on thebank, fell from exhaustion. 

"This is a violent effort of nature, which has accomplished more thanscience or skill could do, " said Hodges, as he gazed on the body, andsaw that the pestilential tumour had wholly disappeared--"he iscompletely cured of the plague. "

And throwing the blanket over him, he ordered him to be conveyed to hisown house. 

X. 

THE PEST-HOUSE IN FINSBURY FIELDS. 

Not a word passed between the grocer and his daughter, as he took herhome from Saint Paul's. Amabel, in fact, was so overpowered byconflicting emotions that she could not speak; while her father, whocould not help reproaching himself for the harshness he had displayedtowards Leonard Holt, felt no disposition to break silence. They foundMrs. Bloundel at the shop-door, drowned in tears, and almost in a stateof distraction. On seeing them, she rushed towards her daughter, andstraining her to her bosom, gave free vent to the impulses of heraffection. Allowing the first transports of joy to subside, Mr. Bloundelbegged, her to retire to her own room with Amabel, and not to leave ittill they had both regained their composure, when he wished to have someserious conversation with them. 

His request complied with, the grocer then retraced his steps to thecathedral with the intention of seeking an explanation from Leonard, and, if he saw occasion to do so, of revoking his severe mandate. Butlong before he reached the southern transept, the apprentice haddisappeared, nor could he learn what had become of him. While anxiouslypursuing his search among the crowd, and addressing inquiries to allwhom he thought likely to afford him information, he perceived a manpushing his way towards him. As this person drew near, he recognisedPillichody, and would have got out of his way had it been possible. 

"You are looking for your apprentice, I understand, Mr. Bloundel, " saidthe bully, raising his hat--"if you desire, it, I will lead you to him. "

Unwilling as he was to be obliged to one whom he knew to be leagued withthe Earl of Rochester, the grocer's anxiety overcame his scruples, and, signifying his acquiescence, Pillichody shouldered his way through thecrowd, and did not stop till they reached the northern aisle, where theywere comparatively alone. 

"Your apprentice is a fortunate spark, Mr. Bloundel, " he said. "Nosooner does he lose one mistress than he finds another. Tour daughter isalready forgotten, and he is at this moment enjoying a tender_tête-à-tête_ in Bishop Kempe's chapel with Nizza Macascree, the blindpiper's daughter. "

"It is false, sir, " replied the grocer, incredulously. 

"Unbelieving dog!" cried Pillichody, in a furious tone, and clapping hishand upon his sword, "it is fortunate for you that the disparity of ourstations prevents me from compelling you to yield me satisfaction forthe insult you have offered me. But I caution you to keep better guardupon your tongue for the future, especially when addressing one who hasearned his laurels under King Charles the Martyr. "

"I have no especial reverence for the monarch you served under, " repliedBloundel; "but he would have blushed to own such a follower. "

"You may thank my generosity that I do not crop your ears, baseRoundhead, " rejoined Pillichody; "but I will convince you that I speakthe truth, and if you have any shame in your composition, it will besummoned to your cheeks. "

So saying, he proceeded to Bishop Kempe's chapel, the door of which wasslightly ajar, and desired the grocer to look through the chink. Thisoccurred at the precise time that the apprentice was seized with suddenfaintness, and was leaning for support upon Nizza Macascree's shoulder. 

"You see how lovingly they are seated together, " observed Pillichody, with a smile of triumph. "Bowers of Paphos! I would I were as near therich widow of Watling-street. Will you speak with him?"

"No, " replied Bloundel, turning away; "I have done with him for ever. Ihave been greatly deceived. "

"True, " chuckled Pillichody, as soon as the grocer was out of hearing;"but not by your apprentice, Mr. Bloundel. I will go and informParravicin and Rochester that I have discovered the girl. The knightmust mind what he is about, or Leonard Holt will prove too much for him. Either I am greatly out, or the apprentice is already master of Nizza'sheart. "

To return to Amabel. As soon as she was alone with her mother, she threwherself on her knees before her, and, imploring her forgiveness, hastilyrelated all that had occurred. 

"But for Leonard Holt, " she said, "I should have been duped into a falsemarriage with the earl, and my peace of mind would have been for everdestroyed. As it is, I shall never be easy till he is restored to myfather's favour. To have done wrong myself is reprehensible enough; butthat another should suffer for my fault is utterly inexcusable. "

"I lament that your father should be deceived, " rejoined Mrs. Bloundel, "and I lament still more that Leonard Holt should be so unjustlytreated. Nevertheless, we must act with the utmost caution. I know myhusband too well to doubt for a moment that he will hesitate to fulfilhis threat. And now, my dear child, " she continued, "do not the repeatedproofs you have received of this wicked nobleman's perfidy, and ofLeonard's devotion--do they not, I say, open your eyes to the truth, andshow you which of the two really loves you, and merits your regard?"

"I will hide nothing from you, mother, " replied Amabel. "In spite of hisperfidy, in spite of my conviction of his unworthiness, I still love theEarl of Rochester. Nor can I compel myself to feel any regard, strongerthan that of friendship, for Leonard Holt. "

"You distress me, sadly, child, " cried Mrs. Bloundel. "What will becomeof you! I wish my husband would shut up his house. That might put an endto the difficulty. I am not half so much afraid of the plague as I am ofthe Earl of Rochester. But compose yourself, as your father desired, that when he sends for us we may be ready to meet him withcheerfulness. "

Mr. Bloundel, however, did _not_ send for them. He remained in the shopall day, except at meal-times, when he said little, and appeared to belabouring under a great weight of anxiety. As Amabel took leave of himfor the night, he dismissed her with coldness; and though he bestowedhis customary blessing upon her, the look that accompanied it was notsuch as it used to be. 

On the following day things continued in the same state. The grocer wascold and inscrutable, and his wife, fearing he was meditating somesevere course against Amabel, and aware of his inflexible nature, if aresolution was once formed, shook off her habitual awe, and thusaddressed him:

"I fear you have not forgiven our daughter. Be not too hasty in yourjudgment. However culpable she may appear, she has been as much deceivedas yourself. "

"It may be so, " replied Bloundel. "Still she has acted with suchindiscretion that I can never place confidence in her again, and withoutconfidence affection is as nought. Can I say to him who may seek her inmarriage, and whom I may approve as a husband, --'Take her! she has neverdeceived me, and will never deceive you?' No. She _has_ deceived me, andwill, therefore, deceive others. I do not know the precise truth of thestory of her abduction (if such it was) by Leonard Holt, neither do Iwish to know it, because I might be compelled to act with greaterseverity than I desire towards her. But I know enough to satisfy me shehas been excessively imprudent, and has placed herself voluntarily insituations of the utmost jeopardy. "

"Not voluntarily, " returned Mrs. Bloundel. "She has been lured intodifficulties by others. "

"No more!" interrupted the grocer, sternly. "If you wish to serve her, keep guard upon your tongue. If you have any preparations to make, theymust not be delayed. I shall shut up my house to-morrow. "

"Whether Leonard returns or not?" asked Mrs. Bloundel. 

"I shall wait for no one, " returned her husband, peremptorily. 

They then separated, and Mrs. Bloundel hastened to her daughter toacquaint her with the result of the interview. 

In the afternoon of the same day, the grocer, who began to feelextremely uneasy about Leonard, again repaired to Saint Paul's to seewhether he could obtain any tidings of him, and learnt, to his greatdismay, from one of the vergers, that a young man, answering to thedescription of the apprentice, had been attacked by the pestilence, andhaving been taken to the vaults of Saint Faith's, had made his escapefrom his attendants, and, it was supposed, had perished. Horror-strickenby this intelligence, he descended to the subterranean church, where hemet Judith Malmayns and Chowles, who confirmed the verger's statement. 

"The poor young man, I am informed, " said Chowles, "threw himself intothe Thames, and was picked up by a boat, and afterwards conveyed, in adying state, to the pest-house in Finsbury Fields, where you willprobably find him, if he is still alive. "

Mr. Bloundel heard no more. Quitting the cathedral, he hastened toFinsbury Fields, and sought out the building to which he had beendirected. It was a solitary farm-house, of considerable size, surroundedby an extensive garden, and had only been recently converted to itspresent melancholy use. Near it was a barn, also fitted up with beds forthe sick. On approaching the pest-house, Mr. Bloundel was greatly struckwith the contrast presented by its exterior to the misery he knew to bereigning within. Its situation was charming, --in the midst, as has justbeen stated, of a large and, until recently, well-cultivated garden, andseen under the influence of a bright and genial May day, the whole placelooked the picture of healthfulness and comfort. But a closer viewspeedily dispelled the illusion, and showed that it was the abode ofdisease and death. Horrid sounds saluted the ears; ghastly figures metthe eyes; and the fragrance of the flowers was overpowered by thetainted and noisome atmosphere issuing from the open doors and windows. The grocer had scarcely entered the gate when he was arrested by anappalling shriek, followed by a succession of cries so horrifying thathe felt half disposed to fly. But mustering up his resolution, andbreathing at a phial of vinegar, he advanced towards the principal door, which stood wide open, and called to one of the assistants. The man, however, was too busy to attend to him, and while waiting his leisure, he saw no fewer than three corpses carried out to an outbuilding in theyard, where they were left till they could be taken away at night forinterment. 

Sickened by the sight, and blaming himself for entering near thiscontagious spot, Mr. Bloundel was about to depart, when a youngchirurgeon stepped out to him, and, in reply to his inquiries afterLeonard, said: "Twelve persons were brought in here last night, and fivethis morning, but I do not remember any of their names. You can gothrough the rooms and search for your apprentice, if you think proper. "

Mr. Bloundel hesitated, but his humanity overcame his apprehension, andmurmuring a prayer that he might be preserved from infection, hefollowed his conductor into the house. Prepared as he was for a dreadfulspectacle, the reality far exceeded his anticipations. Along both sidesof a large room, occupying nearly the whole of the ground-floor, wererows of pallets, on which were laid the sick, many of whom were tieddown to their couches. Almost all seemed in a hopeless state, and thecadaverous hue of their countenances proclaimed that death was not faroff. Though the doors and windows were open, and the room was filledwith vapours and exhalations, arising from pans of coal and plates ofhot iron, on which drugs were burning, nothing could remove the putrid, and pestilential smell that pervaded the chamber. The thick vapoursettled on the panes of the windows, and on the roof, and fell to theground in heavy drops. Marching quickly past each bed, the grocer notedthe features of its unfortunate occupant; but though there were manyyoung men, Leonard was not among the number. His conductor then led himto an upper room, where he found the chirurgeons dressing the sores oftheir patients, most of whom uttered loud shrieks while under theirhands. Here an incident occurred which deeply affected the grocer. Apoor young woman, who had been brought to the pest-house with her childon the previous evening, had just expired, and the infant, unable toobtain its customary nourishment, uttered the most piteous cries. It wasinstantly removed by a nurse and proper food given it; but Mr. Bloundelwas informed that the plague-tokens had already appeared, and that itwould not probably live over the night. "I have no doubt, " said theyoung chirurgeon, "it will be buried with its mother. " And so ithappened. 

The grocer turned away to hide his emotion, and endeavoured through hisblinded gaze to discover Leonard, but, as will be anticipated, withoutsuccess. Stunned by the cries and groans that pierced his ears, andalmost stifled by the pestilential effluvia, he rushed out of the house, and gladly accepted a glass of sack offered him by his conductor, whichremoved the dreadful nausea that affected him. 

"I now remember that the two last persons brought here were taken to thebarn, " observed the chirurgeon; "I will go with you thither, if youthink proper. "

The grocer assented, and the chirurgeon crossed the yard, and opened thedoor of the barn, on the floor of which upwards of twenty beds werelaid. Passing between them, Mr. Bloundel narrowly scrutinized everycountenance; but, to his great relief, recognised no one. One couchalone remained to be examined. The poor sufferer within it had drawn thecoverings over his face, and when they were removed he was found quitedead! He was a young man; and the agony he had endured in the laststruggle was shown by his collapsed frame and distorted features. It wasnot, however, Leonard; and, so far satisfied, though greatly shocked, Mr. Bloundel hurried out. 

"Thank Heaven he is not here!" he exclaimed to his conductor. 

"You have not seen the dead bodies in the outhouse, " returned the other;"it is possible his may be among them. "

"I trust not, " rejoined the grocer, shuddering; "but as I have gone thusfar, I will not leave my errand unaccomplished. Suffer me to look atthem. "

The chirurgeon then led the way to a spacious outbuilding, once used forcattle, in the midst of which stood a large frame supporting six bodies, covered only with a sheet. Mr. Bloundel could not overcome hisrepugnance to enter this shed; but the chirurgeon, who appearedhabituated to such scenes, and to regard them lightly, threw off thesheet, and raised the corpses, one by one, that he might the better viewthem. One peculiarity Mr. Bloundel noticed; namely, that the limbs ofthese unfortunate victims of the pestilence did not stiffen, as wouldhave been the case if they had died of any other disorder; while theblotches that appeared on the livid flesh made them objects almost toohorrible to look upon. In many cases the features were frightfullydistorted--the tongues of the poor wretches swollen and protruding--thehands clenched, and the toes bent towards the soles of the feet. Everything denoted the dreadful pangs that must have attendeddissolution. 

Greatly relieved to find that the whole of this ghastly group werestrangers to him, Mr. Bloundel thanked the chirurgeon, and departed. Convinced that he had been deceived by the coffin-maker, he now began tohope that the whole story was false; but he determined not to rest tillhe had thoroughly investigated the matter. Before doing so, however, hethought it advisable to return home, and accordingly shaped his coursetoward Cripplegate, and, passing through the postern, stopped at anapothecary's shop, and got his apparel fumigated and sprinkled withspirits of hartshorn and sulphur. 

On reaching Wood-street, he noticed, with some uneasiness, a number ofpersons gathered together before his dwelling. His fears were speedilyrelieved by finding that the assemblage was collected by a preacher, whowas pronouncing an exhortation to them in tones almost as loud andemphatic as those of Solomon Eagle. The preacher's appearance was veryremarkable, and attracted the attention of the grocer, who joined thecrowd to listen to him. As far as could be judged, he was a middle-agedman, with black hair floating over his shoulders, earnest features, anda grey eye of extraordinary brilliancy. His figure was slight and erect, and his gestures as impassioned as his looks. He spoke with greatrapidity; and his eloquence, combined with his fervent manner andexpression, completely entranced his audience. He was habited in acassock and bands, and had taken off his cap, which was held by anattendant, who stood near the stool on which he was mounted. The latterdiffered materially from his master. His closely-cropped hair, demurelooks, sugar-loaf hat, and suit of rusty sable, seemed to proclaim him aPuritan; but his twinkling eye--for he had but one, and wore a blackpatch over the orifice--his inflamed cheeks, and mulberry nosecontradicted the idea. 

As soon as the preacher distinguished Mr. Bloundel, he addressed hisdiscourse to him; and, alluding to his religious habits and generalexcellence of character, held him up as an example to others. The grocerwould fain have retreated; but the preacher besought him to stay, andwas proceeding in the same strain, when a sudden interruption tookplace. A slight disturbance occurring amid the crowd, the attendantattempted to check it, and in doing so received a sound buffet on theears. In endeavouring to return the blow, he struck another party, whoinstantly retaliated, and a general affray commenced--some taking oneside, some the other. In the midst of the confusion three persons forcedtheir way towards the preacher, knocked him from his stool, and, assailing him with the most opprobrious epithets, dealt him severalseemingly severe blows, and would have further maltreated him, if Mr. Bloundel had not interposed, and, pushing aside his assailants, gave himhis hand, and led him into his dwelling, the door of which he closed. Shortly afterwards, the crowd dispersing, the preacher's companionentered the shop in search of his master. 

"I hope you have sustained no injury during this tumult, reverend anddear sir?" he asked, with great apparent solicitude. 

"I am not much hurt, " replied the preacher; "but I have received a blowon the head, which has stunned me. The faintness will go off presently. You were the cause of this disturbance, Bambolio. "

"I, Doctor Maplebury?" replied Bambolio. "I endeavoured to stop it. Butyour reverence looks extremely ill. I am sure, sir, " he added to Mr. Bloundel, "after the high character my master gave you in his discourse, and which I am persuaded you deserve, you will extend your hospitalitytowards him. "

"Readily, " replied the grocer. "Here, Blaize, assist the reverendgentleman within, and bid your mistress come down stairs immediately. "

Doctor Maplebury was then conveyed between the porter and Bambolio intothe inner room, where he sank into a chair in a complete state ofexhaustion. The next moment Mrs. Bloundel made her appearance withAmabel. The latter no sooner beheld the preacher, than she started andtrembled so violently, that she could scarcely support herself; but hermother, who only saw a fainting man, flew to his assistance, and calledto Patience to bring restoratives. These applied, Doctor Maplebury wassoon able to rouse himself sufficiently to gaze round the room, and fixhis eyes on Amabel. 

"So our old friends are here again, " said Patience in a low tone toBlaize, as they left the room together. 

"Old friends! What do you mean?" rejoined the porter. 

"Why, the Earl of Rochester and Major Pillichody, " replied Patience. "Iknew them at a glance, and so did Mistress Amabel. But if I hadn'tdiscovered them, the major would soon have let me into the secret by theway in which he squeezed my hand. "

"Indeed!" exclaimed Blaize, angrily. "I'll go and acquaint my masterwith the trick directly. "

"Do so, " replied Patience, "and the house will be shut up to-morrow. Ouronly chance of averting that calamity is in the earl. "

XI. 

HOW THE GROCER SHUT UP HIS HOUSE. 

Placed in a warm bed, and carefully tended by the humane physician, Leonard Holt slept tranquilly for some hours, and when he awoke, thoughso weak as scarcely to be able to lift an arm, he was free from allailment. Feeling ravenously hungry, he made known his wants; and, provisions being set before him, he was allowed to eat and drink inmoderation. Greatly revived by the meal, he arose and attired himself inhabiliments provided for him by Hodges, who, finding him fully equal toconversation, questioned him as to all that had occurred prior to hisseizure. 

"You have acted nobly, " observed the doctor, at the close of hisrecital; "and if Amabel had a spark of generosity in her composition, she would worthily requite you. But I do not expect it. How different isher conduct from that of the piper's pretty daughter. The latter reallyloves you; and I would advise you as a friend to turn your thoughts toher. She will make you happy: whereas the indulgence of your presenthopeless passion--for hopeless it is--can only lead to wretchedness. "

"Would I could follow your advice!" replied Leonard; "but, alas! Icannot. Amabel does not love the Earl of Rochester more blindly, moreconstantly, than I love her; and I could as soon change my nature astransfer my affection to another. "

"I am truly sorry for it, " rejoined Hodges, in a tone of deep sympathy. "And you still desire to return to your master?"

"Unquestionably, " replied Leonard. "If I am banished the house, I shallwander round it night and day like a ghost. "

"I will accompany you there this evening, " rejoined Hodges, "and I trustI shall be able to arrange matters without compromising Amabel. I wish Icould forward your suit more efficiently; but I see no chance of it, and, to deal plainly with you, I do not think a marriage with her wouldbe for your happiness. The brilliant qualities of your noble rival atpresent so dazzle her eyes, that your own solid worth is completelyoverlooked. It will be well if her father can preserve her from ruin. "

"The earl shall die by my hand rather than he shall succeed in hisinfamous purpose, " cried Leonard, fiercely. 

"No more of this!" exclaimed Hodges. "If you would have me take aninterest in you, you will never give utterance to such a sentimentagain. Amabel has another guardian, more powerful even than herfather--the plague. Ere long the earl, who has a sufficient value forhis own safety, will fly the city. "

"I hope the pestilence will number him among its victims, " observedLeonard, in a sombre tone. 

At this juncture the old porter entered the room, and informed hismaster that the piper's daughter was below, and had called to inquireafter the apprentice. 

Hodges desired she might be shown upstairs, and the next moment Nizzawas ushered into the room. On beholding the improved appearance ofLeonard, she could not repress an exclamation of delight, while a deepblush suffused her cheeks. 

"You are surprised to find him quite well, " observed Hodges, with asmile. "Nay, you may approach him with safety. There is no fear ofcontagion now. "

"Having satisfied myself on that point, I will take my leave, " rejoinedNizza, in some confusion. 

"Not till you have allowed me to return my thanks, I trust, " saidLeonard, advancing towards her, and taking her hand. "I owe my life toyou. "

"Then pay the debt by devoting it to her, " rejoined Hodges. "Excuse mefor a few minutes. I have business to attend to, but will be back againdirectly. "

Left alone together, the young couple felt so much embarrassment thatfor some minutes neither could utter a word. At length Nizza, who hadsuffered her hand to remain in that of Leonard, gently withdrew it. 

"Circumstances have given me a claim to your confidence, " she faltered, "and you will not misconstrue my motive, when I ask you whether youstill retain the same affection as formerly for Amabel?"

"Unfortunately for myself, I do, " replied Leonard. 

"And unfortunately for me too, " sighed Nizza. "Doctor Hodges says he canrestore you to your master's favour. You will therefore return home, andwe shall meet no more. "

"In these precarious times, those who part, though even for a few days, can feel no certainty of meeting again, " rejoined Leonard. "But I hopewe shall be more fortunate. "

"You mistake me, " replied Nizza. "Henceforth I shall sedulously avoidyou. Till I saw you, I was happy, and indifferent to all else, myaffections being centred in my father and in my dog. Now I am restlessand miserable. My former pursuits are abandoned, and I think only ofyou. Despise me if you will after this frank avowal. But believe that Iwould not have made it if I had not resolved to see you no more. "

"Despise you!" echoed Leonard. "On no! I shall ever feel the deepestgratitude towards you; but perhaps it is better we should meet no more. "

"And yet you throw yourself in the way of Amabel, " cried Nizza. "Youhave not resolution to fly from the danger which you counsel me toshun. "

"It is too true, " replied Leonard; "but she is beset by temptations fromwhich I hope to preserve her. "

"That excuse will not avail me, " returned Nizza, bitterly. "You cannotlive without her. But I have said enough--more than enough, " she added, correcting herself. "I must now bid you farewell--for ever. May you behappy with Amabel, and may she love you as I love you!"

As she said this she would have rushed out of the room, if she had notbeen stopped by Doctor Hodges. 

"Whither so fast?" he inquired. 

"Oh! let me go--let me go, I implore of you!" she cried, bursting intoan agony of tears. 

"Not till you have composed yourself, " rejoined the doctor. "What is thematter? But I need not ask. I wonder Leonard can be insensible to charmslike yours, coupled with such devotion. Everything seems to be at crosspurposes, and it requires some one more skilled in the affairs of theheart than an old bachelor like myself to set them right. Sit down. Ihave a few questions of importance to ask you before you depart. "

And partly by entreaty, partly by compulsion, he made her take a chair;and as soon as she was sufficiently composed to answer him, questionedher as to what she knew relating to Judith Malmayns and Chowles. 

"Mr. Quatremain, the minor canon, has died of the plague in one of thevaults of Saint Faith's, " he observed; "and I more than suspect, fromthe appearance of the body, has not met with fair play. "

"Your suspicion is well founded, sir, " replied Nizza. "Solomon Eagletold me that the unfortunate man's end was hastened by the plague-nurse. Nor is this her sole crime. She was hired to make away with Leonard Holtin the same manner, and would have accomplished her purpose but for theintervention of Solomon Eagle. "

"Neither she nor her partner in guilt, the coffin-maker, shall escapejustice this time, " replied Hodges. "I will instantly cause her to bearrested, and I trust she will expiate her offences at Tyburn. But tochange the subject. I am sincerely interested about you, Nizza, and Iwish I could make Leonard as sensible of your merits as I am myself. Istill hope a change will take place in his feelings. "

"My heart tells me the contrary, " replied Nizza. "There is no hope foreither of us. Farewell, Leonard!" and she rushed out of the room. 

Soon after this Hodges quitted the apprentice, and going before amagistrate, detailed all that had come to his knowledge concerning thecriminal practices of Judith Malmayns and Chowles. In the course of theday the accused parties were arrested, and, after a long examination, conveyed to Newgate. Solomon Eagle could not be found, neither could SirPaul Parravicin. It appeared that Mr. Quatremain's residence had beenentered on that very morning, and the box of treasure discovered inSaint Faith's abstracted. But though the strongest suspicion of therobbery attached to Chowles and Judith, it could not be brought home tothem. 

We shall now proceed to Wood-street, and ascertain what took placethere. Refreshments were placed before the supposed Doctor Maplebury bythe grocer, while his attendant was sent to the kitchen, and directionsgiven to Blaize to take every care of him; old Josyna was occupied abouther own concerns; and Pillichody, perceiving from the porter's mannerthat his disguise was detected, laid aside concealment altogether, andendeavoured to win the other over to his patron's interests. 

"If this marriage takes place, " he said, "I am authorized by my noblefriend to state that he will appoint you his steward with a largesalary, and that will be a very different situation from the one youhold at present. A nobleman's steward! Think of that. You will have aretinue of servants under your control, and will live quite as well ashis lordship. "

"I have some scruples, " hesitated Blaize. 

"Scruples! pshaw!" cried Pillichody. "You can have no hesitation inbenefiting yourself. If you remain here, the house will be shut up, andyou will be kept a close prisoner for months in the very heart of aninfected city, and I dare say will be buried in yonder cellar; whereas, if you go with the Earl of Rochester, you will dwell in a magnificentcountry mansion--a palace, I ought to call it--enjoy every luxury, andremain there till the plague is over. "

"That last reason decides me, " replied Blaize. "But I suppose hislordship will provide himself with a medicine chest?"

"He has already got one as large as this table, " said Pillichody, "andyou shall have the key of it. "

"Enough!" exclaimed Blaise. "I am yours. "

"Pray, what am I to be?" asked Patience, who had listened to theforegoing conversation with a smile at Blaize's credulity. 

"You, sweetheart!" exclaimed Pillichody. "I will take care of you. Youshall be my housekeeper. "

"Hold!" cried Blaize. "I cannot admit that. Patience and I are engaged. "

"Since you are promoted to such an important situation, you can make abetter match, " observed Patience. "I release you from the engagement. "

"I don't choose to be released, " returned Blaize; "I will marry you onthe same day that the earl weds Amabel. "

"That will be to-night, or to-morrow at the latest, " said Pillichody. "Consent, sweetheart, " he added, in a whisper to Patience; "if we canonce get you and your pretty mistress out of the house, we will leavethis simpleton fool in the lurch. "

"No, I will never consent to such a thing, " returned Patience, in thesame tone. 

"What's that you are saying?" inquired Blaize, suspiciously. 

"Major Pillichody says he will marry me, if you won't, " returnedPatience. 

"I have just told you I will, " rejoined Blaize. "But he must notcontinue his attentions. I feel I shall be very jealous. "

"I am glad to hear it, " returned Patience, bursting into a loud laugh, "for that proves you love me. "

"Well, " observed Pillichody, "I won't interfere with a friend; and asthere is no knowing what may occur, it will be as well to prepareaccordingly. "

So saying, he fell to work upon the provisions loading the board, andate and drank as if determined to lay in a stock for the next two days. 

Meantime the earl made rapid progress in the good opinion both of Mr. Bloundel and his wife. Adapting his discourse precisely to their views, and exerting his matchless conversational powers to their full extent, he so charmed them that they thought they could listen to him for ever. While thus engaged, he contrived ever and anon to steal a glance atAmabel, and on these occasions, his eyes were quite as eloquent andintelligible as his tongue. 

Among other topics interesting to the grocer, the persecution to whichhis daughter had been recently subjected was brought forward. Mr. Bloundel could not reprobate the earl's conduct more strongly than hisguest did; and he assailed himself with such virulence that, in spite ofher uneasiness, Amabel could not repress a smile. In short, he soaccommodated himself to the grocer's opinion, and so won upon hisregard, that the latter offered him an asylum in his house during thecontinuance of the pestilence. This was eagerly accepted, and the earl, hazarding a look at Amabel at the moment, perceived her change colourand become greatly agitated. Mrs. Bloundel also noticed her confusion, but attributing it to any other than the right cause, begged her, in alow tone, to control herself. 

At length, the opportunity for which the earl had been secretly sighingoccurred. Mr. Bloundel called his wife out of the room for a moment, andas their eldest son, Stephen, was in the shop, and the two otherchildren upstairs, Amabel was left alone with her lover. The door was nosooner closed than he sprang towards her and threw himself at her feet. 

"Shall I avail myself of your father's offer, sweetheart?" he cried. "Shall I remain here with you--the happiest of prisoners--or will youonce more accompany me? This time, our marriage shall not beinterrupted. "

"Perhaps not, my lord, " she replied, gravely; "but it will be a mockceremonial, like the last. Do not attempt to deceive me. I am fullyaware of your intentions, and after the awful fate of the wretchedinstrument of your purposed criminality, you will not readily getanother person to tempt in like manner the vengeance of Heaven. I havehad a severe struggle with myself. But at length I have triumphed overmy irresolution. I will not disguise from you that I love youstill, --and must ever, I fear, continue to love you. But I will not beyours on the terms you propose. Neither will I leave this house withyou, nor suffer you to remain in it, in any other than your propercharacter. On my father's return I will disclose all to him. If yourdesigns are honourable, I am sure he will no longer oppose my union withyou. If not, we part for ever. "

"Be prudent, sweet girl, I entreat of you, " cried the earl imploringly. "Your indiscretion will ruin all. There are a thousand reasons why yourfather should not be consulted on the matter. "

"There are none that weigh with me, " she interrupted, decidedly. "I havebeen bewildered--beside myself, --but, thank Heaven, I have recoveredbefore it is too late. "

"You are beside yourself at this moment, " cried Rochester, unable tocontrol his anger and mortification, "and will bitterly repent yourfolly. Neither your supplications nor my rank will have any weight withyour father, prejudiced as he is against me. Fly with me, and I swear tomake you mine, without a moment's loss of time. Will not my plightedword content you?"

"No, my lord, you have broken it already, " returned Amabel. "My fathershall know the truth. "

A dark shade passed over Rochester's countenance, and a singular andmost forbidding expression, which Amabel had once before noticed, tookpossession of it. His love for her seemed changed to hate, and shetremblingly averted her gaze. At this juncture, the door opened, and thegrocer and his wife entered the room. The former started, on seeingAmabel and the supposed preacher in such close propinquity, and apainful suspicion of the truth crossed his mind. He was not, however, kept long in suspense. Throwing off his wig, and letting his own fairringlets fall over his shoulders, the earl tore open his cassock, anddisclosed his ordinary rich attire. At the same time, his face underwentan equally striking change, --each feature resuming its originalexpression; and the grocer, though he witnessed the wholetransformation, could scarcely believe that the same individual he hadrecently beheld stood before him. 

"You now know who I am, Mr. Bloundel, and what brought me hither, " saidRochester, with a haughty salutation. 

"I do, my lord, " replied the grocer, "and I give you full credit foryour daring and ingenuity. After the manner in which I have been imposedupon myself, I can make allowance for others. " He then turned to Amabel, and said, in a severe tone, "You are no longer my daughter. "

"Father!" she cried, rushing towards him and throwing herself at hisfeet, "do not cast me off for ever. I am not now to blame. It is owingto my determination to disclose all to you that the earl has thusrevealed himself. I might have deceived you further--might have fledwith him. "

"Forgive her! oh, forgive her!" cried Mrs. Bloundel--"or, if any illhappens to her, you will be answerable for it. "

"Is this the truth, my lord?" asked the grocer. 

Rochester bowed stiffly in acquiescence. 

"Then you are again my child, " said Bloundel, raising her, and pressingher to his bosom. "What are your intentions towards her?" he continued, addressing the earl. 

"They may be readily surmised, " replied Rochester, with a scornfullaugh. 

"Will you wed her, if I agree to the union, " asked Bloundel, tremblingwith concentrated rage. 

Amabel looked at her lover as if her life hung on his answer. 

Rochester affected not to hear the question, but, as it was repeatedstill more peremptorily, he repeated carelessly, --"I will consider ofit. "

"Deceived! deceived!" cried Amabel, falling on her mother's neck, andbursting into tears. 

"This outrage shall not pass unpunished, " cried Bloundel. And before theearl could draw his sword or offer any resistance, he threw himself uponhim, and hurling him to the ground, set his foot upon his bosom. 

"Do not kill him, " shrieked Amabel, terrified by the stern expression ofher father's countenance. 

"What are you about to do?" gasped Rochester, struggling ineffectuallyto get free. 

"Bid Stephen bring a cord, " cried the grocer. 

"You are not going to hang him?" inquired Mrs. Bloundel. 

"Do as I bid you, " rejoined her husband, "and lose no time. "

As she was about to leave the room, the door opened, and Doctor Hodgesentered, followed by Leonard and Stephen. 

"Mercy on us! what's the matter?" cried the former, in astonishment. 

"You are just arrived in time to prevent mischief, " replied Mrs. Bloundel. "Pray interfere between them. My husband will attend to you. "

"Arise, my lord, " said Mr. Bloundel, removing his foot from theprostrate nobleman; "you are sufficiently punished by being found inthis disgraceful condition. Remember that your life has been at mydisposal. "

Thus liberated, Rochester sprang to his feet, and regarding the groupwith a menacing and disdainful look, walked up to Amabel, and saying toher, "You shall yet be mine, " strode out of the room. He then marchedalong the passage, and called to Pillichody, who instantly answered thesummons. Accompanied by Hodges, the grocer followed them to the shop, where the bully not departing so quickly as he desired, and refusing tobe more expeditious, he kicked him into the street. This done, and thedoor fastened, he tarried only till he had received all needfulexplanations from the friendly physician, and then returning to theinner room, warmly greeted Leonard, and congratulated him on hisextraordinary recovery from the plague. 

Happiness was thus once more restored to every member of the grocer'sfamily, except Amabel, who still continued downcast and dejected, andentreated permission to retire to her own room. A cheerful evening wasthen passed by the others, and the doctor did not offer to take hisdeparture till the clock struck eleven. 

"It is the last night I shall spend here for some months, " he said;"perhaps the last I shall ever spend here, and I have stayed longer thanI intended, but I did not like to abridge my enjoyment. " After shakinghands cordially with the whole party, he added in an under tone, as hetook leave of Leonard, "Do not forget Nizza Macascree. "

On the following day the grocer nailed up the shutters, and locked andbarred the doors of his house. 

BOOK THE THIRD. 

JUNE, 1665. 

I. 

THE IMPRISONED FAMILY. 

The first few days of their confinement were passed by the grocer'sfamily in a very uncomfortable manner. No one, except Mr. Bloundel, appeared reconciled to the plan, and even he found it more difficult ofaccomplishment that he had anticipated. The darkness of the rooms, andthe want of ventilation caused by the closed windows and barred doors, gave the house the air of a prison, and occasioned a sense of oppressionalmost intolerable. Blaize declared it was "worse than being in Newgate, and that he must take an additional rufus to set right his digestion;"while Patience affirmed "that it was like being buried alive, and thatshe would not stand it. " Mr. Bloundel paid no attention to theircomplaints, but addressed himself seriously to the remedy. Insistingupon the utmost attention being paid to cleanliness, he had an abundantsupply of water drawn, with which the floors of every room and passagewere washed down daily. By such means the house was kept cool andwholesome; and its inmates, becoming habituated to the gloom, in a greatdegree recovered their cheerfulness. 

The daily routine of the establishment was as follows. The grocer aroseat dawn, and proceeded to call up the whole of his family. They thenassembled in a large room on the second story, where he offered upthanks that they had been spared during the night, and prayed for theirpreservation during the day. He next assigned a task to each, and tookcare to see it afterwards duly fulfilled; well knowing that constantemployment was the best way to check repining and promote contentment. Heretofore the servants had always taken their meals in the kitchen, butnow they always sat down to table with him. "I will make no distinctionat this season, " he said; "all shall fare as I fare, and enjoy the samecomforts as myself. And I trust that my dwelling may be as sure a refugeamid this pestilential storm as the ark of the patriarch proved whenHeaven's vengeance was called forth in the mighty flood. "

Their devotions ended, the whole party repaired to one of the lowerrooms, where a plentiful breakfast was provided, and of which they allpartook. The business of the day then began, and, as has just beenobserved, no one was suffered to remain idle. The younger children wereallowed to play and exercise themselves as much as they chose in thegarret, and Blaize and Patience were occasionally invited to join them. A certain portion of the evening was also devoted to harmless recreationand amusements. The result may be anticipated. No one suffered inhealth, while all improved in spirits. Prayers, as usual, concluded theday, and the family retired to rest at an early hour. 

This system of things may appear sufficiently monotonous, but it wasprecisely adapted to the exigencies of the case, and produced a mostsalutary effect. Regular duties and regular employments being imposedupon each, and their constant recurrence, so far from being irksome, soon became agreeable. After a while the whole family seemed to growindifferent to the external world--to live only for each other, and tothink only of each other--and to Leonard Holt, indeed, that house wasall the world. Those walls contained everything dear to him, and hewould have been quite content never to leave them if Amabel had beenalways near. He made no attempt to renew his suit--seldom or neverexchanging a word with her, and might have been supposed to have becomewholly indifferent to her. But it was not so. His heart was consumed bythe same flame as before. No longer, however, a prey to jealousy--nolonger apprehensive of the earl--he felt so happy, in comparison withwhat he had been, that he almost prayed that the term of theirimprisonment might be prolonged. Sometimes the image of Nizza Macascreewould intrude upon him, and he thought, with a feeling akin to remorse, of what she might suffer--for he was too well acquainted with the pangsof unrequited love not to sympathise deeply with her. As to Amabel, sheaddressed herself assiduously to the tasks enjoined by her father, andallowed her mind to dwell as little as possible on the past, butemployed all her spare time in devotional exercises. 

It will be remembered that the grocer had reserved a communication withthe street, by means of a shutter opening from a small room in the upperstory. Hither he would now frequently repair, and though he did not asyet think it necessary to have recourse to all the precautionarymeasures he intended eventually to adopt--such as flashing a pistol whenhe looked forth--yet he never opened the shutter without holding a phialof vinegar, or a handkerchief wetted with the same liquid, to his face. 

Before closing his house he had hired a porter, who occupied the hutchat his door, and held himself in readiness to execute any commission, orperform any service that might be required. Fresh vegetables, poultry, eggs, butter, and milk, were brought by a higgler from the country, andraised by means of a basket or a can attached to the pulley. Butcher'smeat was fetched him from Newgate-market by the porter. This man, whosename was Ralph Dallison, had been formerly in the employ of the grocer, who, knowing his character, could place entire reliance on him. Dallisonreported the progress of the pestilence daily, and acquainted him withthe increasing amount of the bills of mortality. Several houses, hesaid, were infected in Cheapside, and two in Wood-street, one of whichwas but a short distance from the grocer's habitation. A watchman wasstationed at the door, and the red cross marked upon it, and on thefollowing night the grocer heard the sound of the doleful bellannouncing the approach of the pest-cart. 

The weather still continued as serene and beautiful as ever, but norefreshing showers fell--no soft and healthful breezes blew--and it wasnow found to be true, what had been prognosticated--viz, that with theheats of summer the plague would fearfully increase. The grocer was notincommoded in the same degree as his neighbours. By excluding the lighthe excluded the heat, and the care which he took to have his housewashed down kept it cool. The middle of June had arrived, and suchdismal accounts were now brought him of the havoc occasioned by thescourge, that he would no longer take in fresh provisions, but began toopen his stores. Dallison told him that the alarm was worse thanever--that vast numbers were endeavouring to leave the city, but no onecould now do so without a certificate, which was never granted if theslightest suspicion was attached to the party. 

"If things go on in this way, " said the porter, "London will soon bedeserted. No business is conducted, as it used to be, and everybody isviewed with distrust. The preachers, who ought to be the last to quit, have left their churches, and the Lord's day is no longer observed. Manymedical men even have departed, declaring their services are no longerof any avail. All public amusements are suspended, and the taverns areonly open to the profane and dissolute, who deride God's judgments, anddeclare they have no fear. Robberies, murders, and other crimes, havegreatly increased, and the most dreadful deeds are now committed withimpunity. You have done wisely, sir, in protecting yourself againstthem. "

"I have reason to be thankful that I have done so, " replied Bloundel. And he closed his shutter to meditate on what he had just heard. 

And there was abundant food for reflection. Around him lay a great andpopulous city, hemmed in, as by a fire, by an exterminating plague, thatspared neither age, condition, nor sex. No man could tell what the endof all this would be--neither at what point the wrath of the offendedDeity would stop--nor whether He would relent, till He had utterlydestroyed a people who so contemned his word. Scarcely daring to hopefor leniency, and filled with a dreadful foreboding of what would ensue, the grocer addressed a long and fervent supplication to Heaven, imploring a mitigation of its wrath. 

On joining his family, his grave manner and silence showed howpowerfully he had been affected. No one questioned him as to what hadoccurred, but all understood he had received some distressingintelligence. 

Amid his anxiety one circumstance gave him unalloyed satisfaction. Thiswas the change wrought in Amabel's character. It has been stated thatshe had become extremely devout, and passed the whole of the time notappointed for other occupations, in the study of the Scriptures, or inprayer. Her manner was extremely sedate, and her conversation assumed atone that gave her parents, and especially her father, inexpressiblepleasure. Mrs. Bloundel would have been equally delighted with thechange, if it had tended to forward her own favourite scheme of a unionwith Leonard; but as this was not the case, though she rejoiced in theimprovement, she still was not entirely satisfied. She could not helpnoting also, that her daughter had become pale and thin, and though sheuttered no complaint, Mrs. Bloundel began to fear her health wasdeclining. Leonard Holt looked on in wonder and admiration, and ifpossible his love increased, though his hopes diminished; for thoughAmabel was kinder to him than before, her kindness seemed the resultrather of a sense of duty than regard. 

Upon one occasion they were left alone together, and instead of quittingthe room, as she had been accustomed, Amabel called to Leonard, who wasabout to depart, and requested him to stay. The apprentice instantlyobeyed; the colour forsook his cheek, and his heart beat violently. 

"You desire to speak with me, Amabel, " he said:--"Ha! you haverelented?--Is there any hope for me?"

"Alas! no, " she replied; "and it is on that very point I have nowdetained you. You will, I am sure, rejoice to learn that I have atlength fully regained my peace of mind, and have become sensible of theweakness of which I have been guilty--of the folly, worse than folly, Ihave committed. My feelings are now under proper restraint, and viewingmyself with other eyes, I see how culpable I have been. Oh! Leonard, ifyou knew the effort it has been to conquer the fatal passion thatconsumed me, if I were to tell you of the pangs it has cost me, of thetears I have shed, of the heart-quakes endured, you would pity me. "

"I do, indeed, pity you, " replied Leonard, "for my own sufferings havebeen equally severe. But I have not been as successful as you insubduing them. "

"Because you have not pursued the right means, Leonard, " she rejoined. "Fix your thoughts on high; build your hopes of happiness on Heaven;strengthen your faith; and you will soon find the victory easy. A shorttime ago I thought only of worldly pleasures, and was ensnared by vanityand admiration, enchained to one whom I knew to be worthless, and whopursued me only to destroy me. Religion has preserved me from the snare, and religion will restore you to happiness. But you must devote yourselfto Heaven, not lightly, but with your whole soul. You must forgetme--forget yourself--forget all but the grand object. And this is aseason of all others, when it is most needful to lead a life of piety, to look upon yourself as dead to this world, and to be ever prepared forthat to come. I shudder to think what might have been my portion had Iperished in my sin. "

"Yours is a most happy frame of mind, " returned Leonard, "and I would Ihad a chance of attaining the same tranquillity. But if you haveconquered your love for the earl, --if your heart is disengaged, why denyme a hope?"

"My heart is _not_ disengaged, Leonard, " she replied; "it is engrossedby Heaven. While the plague is raging around us thus--while thousandsare daily carried off by that devouring scourge--and while every hour, every moment, may be our last, our thoughts ought always to be fixedabove. I have ceased to love the earl, but I can never love another, andtherefore it would be unjust to you, to whom I owe so much, to hold outhopes that never can be realized. "

"Alas! alas!" cried Leonard, unable to control his emotion. 

"Compose yourself, dear Leonard, " she cried, greatly moved. "I would Icould comply with your wishes. But, alas! I cannot. I could only giveyou, " she added, in a tone so thrilling, that it froze the blood in hisveins--"a breaking, perhaps a broken heart!"

"Gracious heaven!" exclaimed Leonard, becoming as pale as death; "is itcome to this?"

"Again, I beg you to compose yourself, " she rejoined, calmly--"and Ientreat you not to let what I have told you pass your lips. I would notalarm my father, or my dear and anxious mother, on my account. And theremay be no reason for alarm. Promise me, therefore, you will be silent. "

Leonard reluctantly gave the required pledge. 

"I have unwittingly been the cause of much affliction to you, " pursuedAmabel--"and would gladly see you happy, and there is one person, Ithink, who would make you so--I mean Nizza Macascree. From what she saidto me when we were alone together in the vaults of Saint Faith's, I amsure she is sincerely attached to you. Could you not requite her love?"

"No, " replied Leonard. "There is no change in affection like mine. "

"Pursue the course I have advised, " replied Amabel, "and you will findall your troubles vanish. Farewell! I depend upon your silence!"

And she quitted the room, leaving Leonard in a state of indescribableanxiety. 

Faithful, however, to his promise, he made no mention of his uneasinessto the grocer or his wife, but indulged his grief in secret. Ignorant ofwhat was passing, Mr. Bloundel, who was still not without apprehensionof some further attempt on the part of the earl, sent Dallison to makeinquiries after him, and learnt that he was at Whitehall, but that thecourt had fixed to remove to Hampton Court at the end of June. Theporter also informed him that the city was emptying fast--that the LordMayor's residence was literally besieged with applications for bills ofhealth--that officers were stationed at the gates--and that, besidesthese, barriers and turnpikes were erected on all the main roads, atwhich the certificates were required to be exhibited--and that suchpersons as escaped without them were driven back by the inhabitants ofthe neighbouring villages, who refused to supply them with necessaries;and as they could not return home, many had perished of want, or perhapsof the pestilence, in the open fields. Horses and coaches, he added, were not to be procured, except at exorbitant prices; and thousands haddeparted on foot, locking up their houses, and leaving their effectsbehind them. 

"In consequence of this, " added Dallison, "several houses have beenbroken open; and though the watch had been trebled, still they cannot bein all places at once; and strong as the force is, it is not adequate tothe present emergency. Bands of robbers stalk the streets at night, taking vehicles with them, built to resemble pest-carts, and beating offthe watch, they break open the houses, and carry off any goods theyplease. "

This intelligence greatly alarmed the grocer, and he began to fear hisplans would be defeated in an unexpected manner. He engaged Dallison toprocure another trusty companion to take his place at night, andfurnished him with money to purchase arms. He no longer slept astranquilly as before, but frequently repaired to his place ofobservation to see that the watchman was at his post, and that all wassecure. For the last few days, he had remarked with some uneasiness thata youth frequently passed the house and gazed at the barred windows, andhe at first imagined he might be leagued with the nocturnal marauders hehad heard of; but the prepossessing appearance of the stripling, whocould not be more than sixteen, and who was singularly slightly made, soon dispelled the idea. Still, as he constantly appeared at the samespot, the grocer began to have a new apprehension, and to suspect he wasan emissary of the Earl of Rochester, and he sent Dallison to inquirehis business. The youth returned an evasive answer, and withdrew; butthe next day he was there again. On this occasion, Mr. Bloundel pointedhim out to Leonard Holt, and asked him if he had seen him before. Theyouth's back being towards them, the apprentice unhesitatingly answeredin the negative, but as the subject of investigation turned the nextmoment, and looked up, revealing features of feminine delicacy andbeauty, set off by long flowing jet-black ringlets, Leonard started, andcoloured. 

"I was mistaken, " he said, "I _have_ seen him before. "

"Is he one of the Earl of Rochester's pages?" asked Mr. Bloundel. 

"No, " replied Leonard, "and you need not be uneasy about him. I am surehe intends no harm. "

Thus satisfied, the grocer thought no more about the matter. He thenarranged with Leonard that he should visit the window at certain hourson alternate nights with himself, and appointed the following night asthat on which the apprentice's duties should commence. 

On the same night, however, an alarming incident occurred, which keptthe grocer and his apprentice for a long time on the watch. The familyhad just retired to rest when the report of fire-arms was heard close tothe street door, and Mr. Bloundel hastily calling up Leonard, theyrepaired to the room overlooking the street, and found that a desperatestruggle was going on below. The moon being overclouded, and the lanternextinguished, it was too dark to discern the figures of the combatants, and in a few seconds all became silent, except the groans of a woundedman. Mr. Bloundel then called out to know what was the matter, andascertained from the sufferer, who proved to be his own watchman, thatthe adjoining house, being infected, had been shut up by theauthorities; and its owner, unable to bear the restraint, had burst openthe door, shot the watchman stationed at it, and firing another pistolat the poor wretch who was making the statement, because he endeavouredto oppose his flight, had subsequently attacked him with his sword. Itwas a great grief to Mr. Bloundel not to be able to aid the unfortunatewatchman, and he had almost determined to hazard a descent by thepulley, when a musical voice was heard below, and the grocer soonunderstood that the youth, about whom his curiosity had been excited, was raising the sufferer, and endeavouring to stanch his wounds. Findingthis impossible, however, at Mr. Bloundel's request, he went in searchof assistance, and presently afterwards returned with a posse of men, bearing halberds and lanterns, who carried off the wounded man, andafterwards started in pursuit of the murderer. 

Mr. Bloundel then entered into conversation with the youth, who informedhim that his name was Flitcroft, that he was without a home, all hisrelations having died of the plague, and that he was anxious to serve asa watchman in place of the poor wretch who had just been removed. Leonard remonstrated against this arrangement, but Mr. Bloundel was somuch pleased with Flitcroft's conduct that he would listen to noobjection. Accordingly provisions were lowered down in a basket to thepoor youth, and he stationed himself in the hutch. Nothing materialoccurred during the day. Flitcroft resigned his post to Dallison, butreturned in the evening. 

At midnight, Leonard took his turn to watch. It was a bright moonlightnight, but though he occasionally looked out into the street, andperceived Flitcroft below, he gave no intimation of his presence. All atonce, however, he was alarmed by a loud cry, and opening the shutter, perceived the youth struggling with two persons, whom he recognised asSir Paul Parravicin and Pillichody. 

He shouted to them to release their captive, but they laughed at hisvociferations, and in spite of his resistance dragged the youth away. Maddened at the sight, Leonard lowered the rope as quickly as he couldwith the intention of descending by it. At this moment, Flitcroft turnedan agonized look behind him, and perceiving what had been done, brokesuddenly from his captors, and before he could be prevented, sprang intothe basket, and laid hold of the rope. Leonard, who had seen themovement, and divined its object, drew up the pulley with the quicknessof thought; and so expeditiously was the whole accomplished, that erethe knight and his companion reached the spot, Flitcroft was above theirheads, and the next moment was pulled through the window, and in safetyby the side of Leonard. 

II. 

HOW FIRES WERE LIGHTED IN THE STREETS. 

Nizza Macascree, for it is useless to affect further mystery, as soon asshe could find utterance, murmured her thanks to the apprentice, whosesatisfaction at her deliverance was greatly diminished by his fears lesthis master should disapprove of what he had done. Seeing his uneasiness, and guessing the cause, Nizza hastened to relieve it. 

"I reproach myself bitterly for having placed you in this situation!"she said, "but I could not help it, and will free you from my presencethe moment I can do so with safety. When I bade you farewell, I meant itto be for ever, and persuaded myself I could adhere to my resolution. But I was deceived. You would pity me, were I to tell you the anguish Iendured. I could not accompany my poor father in his rambles; and if Iwent forth at all, my steps involuntarily led me to Wood-street. Atlast, I resolved to disguise myself, and borrowed this suit from a Jewclothesman, who has a stall in Saint Paul's. Thus equipped, I pacedbackwards and forwards before the house, in the hope of obtaining aglimpse of you, and fortune has favoured me more than I expected, thoughit has led to this unhappy result. Heaven only knows what will become ofme!" she added, bursting into tears. "Oh! that the pestilence wouldselect me as one of its victims. But, like your own sex, it shuns allthose who court it. "

"I can neither advise you, " replied Leonard, in sombre tone, "nor helpyou. Ah!" he exclaimed, as the sounds of violent blows were heardagainst the door below--"your persecutors are trying to break into thehouse. "

Rushing to the window, and gazing downwards, he perceived Sir PaulParravicin and Pillichody battering against the shop door, andendeavouring to burst it open. It was, however, so stoutly barricaded, that it resisted all their efforts. 

"What is to be done?" cried Leonard. "The noise will certainly alarm mymaster, and you will be discovered. "

"Heed me not, " rejoined Nizza, distractedly, "you shall not run any riskon my account. Let me down the pulley. Deliver me to them. Anything isbetter than that you should suffer by my indiscretion. "

"No, no, " replied Leonard; "Mr. Bloundel shall know all. His love forhis own daughter will make him feel for you. But come what will, I willnot abandon you. "

As he spoke a timid knock was heard at the door, and a voice withoutexclaimed, in accents of the utmost trepidation, "Are you there, Leonard?--Robbers are breaking into the house. We shall all bemurdered. "

"Come in, Blaize, " returned Leonard, opening the door and admitting theporter--"you may be of some assistance to me. "

"In what way?" demanded Blaize. "Ah! who's this?" he added, perceivingNizza--"what is this page doing here?"

"Do not concern yourself about him but attend to me, " replied Leonard. "I am about to drive away those persons from the door. You must lower medown in the basket attached to the pulley. "

"And will you dare to engage them?" asked Blaize, peeping out at theshutter. "They are armed. As I live, one is Major Pillichody, the rascalwho dared to make love to Patience. I have half a mind to go down withyou, and give him a sound drubbing. "

"You shall not encounter this danger for me, " interposed Nizza, endeavouring to stay Leonard, who, having thrust a sword into hisgirdle, was about to pass through the window. 

"Do not hinder me, " replied the apprentice, breaking from her. "Takehold of the rope, Blaize, and mind it does not run down too quickly. "

With this, he got into the basket, and as the porter carefully obeyedhis instructions, he reached the ground in safety. On seeing him, Pillichody bolted across the street, and flourishing his sword, anduttering tremendous imprecations, held himself in readiness to beat animmediate retreat. Not so Parravicin. Instantly assailing theapprentice, he slightly wounded him in the arm. Seeing how mattersstood, and that victory was pretty certain to declare itself for hispatron, Pillichody returned, and, attacking the apprentice, by theircombined efforts, he was speedily disarmed. Pillichody would have passedhis sword through his body, but the knight stayed his hand. 

"The fool has placed himself in our power, " he said, "and he shall payfor his temerity; nevertheless, I will spare his life provided he assistus to get into the house, or will deliver up Nizza Macascree. "

"I will do neither, " replied Leonard, fiercely. 

Parravicin raised his sword, and was about to strike, when, at themoment, the basket was again quickly lowered to the ground. It boreNizza Macascree, who, rushing between them, arrested the stroke. 

"Oh! why have you done this?" cried Leonard, in a tone of reproach. 

"I will tell you why, " rejoined Parravicin, triumphantly; "because shesaw you were unable to defend her, and, like a true woman, surrenderedherself to the victor. Take care of him, Pillichody, while I secure thegirl. Spit him, if he attempts to stir. "

And twining his arms round Nizza, notwithstanding her shrieks andresistance, he bore her away. Infuriated by the sight, Leonard Holtthrew himself upon Pillichody, and a desperate struggle took placebetween them, which terminated this time successfully for theapprentice. Wresting his long rapier from the bully, Leonard rushedafter Parravicin, and reached the end of Wood-street, just in time tosee him spring into a coach, and drive off with his prize. Speedingafter them along Blowbladder-street, and Middle-row, as Newgate-streetwas then termed, the apprentice shouted to the coachman to stop, but noattention being paid to his vociferations, and finding pursuitunavailing, he came to a halt. He then more slowly retraced his steps, and on arriving at the grocer's residence, found the basket drawn up. Almost afraid to call out, he at length mustered courage enough to shoutto Blaize to lower it, and was answered by Mr. Bloundel, who, puttinghis head through the window, demanded in a stern tone why he had leftthe house?

Leonard briefly explained. 

"I deeply regret your imprudence, " replied his master; "because I cannow no more admit you. It is my fixed determination, as you well know, not to suffer any member of my family who may quit my house, to enter itagain. "

"I shall not attempt to remonstrate with you, sir, " replied Leonard. "All I pray of you is to allow me to occupy this hutch, and to act asyour porter. "

"Willingly, " rejoined Mr. Bloundel; "and as you have had the plague, youwill run no risk of infection. You shall know all that passes withindoors; and I only lament that you should have banished yourself from theasylum which I hoped to afford you. "

After some further conversation between them, a bundle was lowered bythe grocer, containing a change of clothes and a couple of blankets. Onreceiving these, Leonard retired to the hutch, and tying a handkerchiefround his wounded arm, wrapped himself in a night trail, and stretchinghimself on the ground, in spite of his anxiety, soon sank asleep. Heawoke about four o'clock in the morning, with a painful consciousness ofwhat had taken place during the night. It was just beginning to growlight, and he walked across the street to gaze at the house from whichhe was exiled. Its melancholy, uninhabited look did not serve to cheerhim. It seemed totally altered since he knew it first. The sign, whichthen invited the passers-by to enter the shop and deal with its honestowner, now appeared no longer significant, unless--and it will beremembered it was the Noah's Ark--it could be supposed to have referenceto those shut up within. The apprentice looked at the habitation withmisgiving, and, instead of regarding it as a sanctuary from thepestilence, could not help picturing it as a living tomb. The lastconversation he had had with Amabel also arose forcibly to hisrecollection, and the little likelihood there appeared of seeing heragain gave him acute agony. Oppressed by this painful idea, and unableto exclude from his thoughts the unhappy situation of Nizza Macascree, he bent his steps, scarcely knowing whither he was going, towards SaintPaul's. 

Having passed so much of his time of late in the cathedral, Leonardbegan to regard it as a sort of home, and it now appeared like a placeof refuge to him. Proceeding to the great western entrance, he seatedhimself on one of the large blocks of stone left there by the masonsoccupied in repairing the exterior of the fane. His eye rested upon themighty edifice before him, and the clear sparkling light revealednumberless points of architectural grandeur and beauty which he hadnever before noticed. The enormous buttresses and lofty pinnacles of thecentral tower were tinged with the beams of the rising sun, and glowedas if built of porphyry. While gazing at the summit of this tower, andcalling to mind the magnificent view he had recently witnessed from itat the same hour, if a wish could have transported him thither at thatmoment, he would have enjoyed it again. But as this could not be, hetried to summon before his mental vision the whole gloriousprospect--the broad and shining river, with its moving or motionlesscraft--the gardens, the noble mansions, the warehouses, and mightywharfs on its banks--London Bridge, with its enormous pile ofhabitations--the old and picturesque city, with its innumerable towers, and spires, and girdle of grey walls--the green fields and winding lanesleading to the lovely hills around it--all these objects arose obedientto his fancy, and came arrayed in colouring as fresh as that whereinthey had before appeared to him. While thus occupied, his gaze remainedriveted on the summit of the central tower, and he fancied he perceivedsome one leaning over the balustrade; but as little beyond the upperpart of the figure could be discerned, and as it appeared perfectlymotionless, he could not be quite sure that his eyes did not deceivehim. Having gazed at the object for some minutes, during which itmaintained the same attitude, he continued his survey of the pile, andbecame so excited by the sublime emotions inspired by the contemplation, as to be insensible to aught else. 

After a while he arose, and was about to proceed towards the portico, when, chancing to look at the top of the tower, he remarked that thefigure had disappeared, and while wondering who it could be, heperceived a person emerge from one of the tall windows in the lower partof the tower. It was Solomon Eagle, and he no longer wondered at what hehad seen. The enthusiast was without his brazier, but carried a longstout staff. He ran along the pointed roof of the nave withinconceivable swiftness, till, reaching the vast stone cross, upwards oftwelve feet in height, ornamenting the western extremity, he climbed itsbase, and clasping the transverse bar of the sacred symbol of his faithwith his left arm, extended his staff with his right, and described acircle, as if pointing out the walls of the city. He then raised hisstaff towards heaven to invoke its vengeance, and anon pointed itmenacingly downwards. After this he broke into loud denunciations; butthough the apprentice could not hear the words, he gathered theirpurport from his gestures. 

By this time a few masons had assembled, and producing their implements, commenced working at the blocks of stone. Glancing at the enthusiast, one of them observed with a smile to his companion, "There is SolomonEagle pronouncing his morning curse upon the city. I wonder whether thejudgments he utters against it will come to pass. "

"Assuredly, Phil Gatford, " replied the other mason, gravely; "and I lookupon all the work we are now doing as labour thrown away. Was he notright about the plague? Did he not foretell the devouring scourge bywhich we are visited? And he will be right also about the fire. Since hehas doomed it, this cathedral will be consumed by flames, and one stonewill not be left standing on another. "

"It is strange, Ned Turgis, " observed Gatford, "that, though SolomonEagle may always be seen at daybreak at the top of the tower or on theroof of the cathedral--sometimes at one point and sometimes atanother--no one can tell where he hides himself at other times. He nolonger roams the streets at night, but you may remember when theofficers of justice were in search of him, to give evidence againstMother Malmayns and Chowles, he was not to be found. "

"I remember it, " replied Turgis; "but I have no doubt he was hidden insome out-of-the-way corner of the cathedral--perhaps among the immensewooden beams of the clerestory. "

"Or in some of the secret passages or cells contrived in the thicknessof the walls, " rejoined the first speaker. "I say, Ned Turgis, if theplague increases, as there is every likelihood it will, Solomon Eaglewill be the only preacher left in Saint Paul's. Neither deans, prebends, minor-canons, nor vicars will attend. As it is, they have almostabandoned it. "

"Shame on them!" exclaimed Leonard Holt, who, being much interested inthe conversation of the masons, had silently approached them. "At thisseason, more than ever, they are bound to attend to their duty. "

"Why, so I think, " rejoined Gatford; "but I suppose they considerself-preservation their first duty. They aver that all assemblages, whether called together for religious purposes or not, are dangerous, and likely to extend the pestilence. "

"And yet crowds are permitted to assemble for purposes of amusement, ifnot for worship, in those holy walls, " returned Leonard. 

"Not so, " replied Gatford. "Very few persons now come there, and nonefor amusement. Paul's Walk is completely deserted. The shops and stallshave been removed, and the pillars to which they were attached arerestored to their former appearance. "

"I am glad to hear it, " rejoined Leonard. "I would far rather the sacrededifice were altogether abandoned than be what it has been of late--aden of thieves. "

"It was a stable and a magazine of arms in the time of theCommonwealth, " remarked Gatford. 

"And if Solomon Eagle's foreboding come to pass, it will be a heap ofruins in our own time, " rejoined Turgis. "But I see the prophet of illhas quitted his post, and retired to his hiding-place. "

Looking up as this was said, Leonard saw that the enthusiast haddisappeared. At this moment the great door of the cathedral was thrownopen, and, quitting the masons, he ascended the broad steps under theportico, and entered the fane, where he found that the information hehad received was correct, and that the stalls and other disfigurementsto the pillars had been removed. After pacing the solitary aisles forsome time, he made inquiries from the verger concerning Solomon Eagle. 

"I know nothing about him, " replied the man, reluctantly. "I believe healways appears at daybreak on some part of the roof, but I am asignorant as yourself where he hides himself. The door of the windingstaircase leading to the central tower is open. You can ascend it, andsearch for him, if you think proper. "

Acting upon the suggestion, Leonard mounted to the belfry, and fromthence to the summit of the tower. Having indulged himself with a briefsurvey of the glorious view around, he descended, and glanced into everycell and chamber as he passed, in the hopes of meeting with theenthusiast, but he was disappointed. At length, as he got about half-waydown, he felt his arm forcibly grasped, and, instantly conjecturing whoit was, offered no resistance. Without uttering a word, the person whohad seized him dragged him up a few steps, pushed aside a secret door, which closed behind them with a hollow clangour, and leading him along adark narrow passage, opened another door, and they emerged upon theroof. He then found that his suspicion was correct, and that hismysterious guide was no other than Solomon Eagle. 

"I am glad to find you have recovered from the pestilence, " said theenthusiast, regarding him with a friendly glance; "it proves you arefavoured by Heaven. I saw you in the open space before the cathedralthis morning, and instantly recognised you. I was in the belfry when youdescended, but you did not perceive me, and I wished to be certain youwere alone before I discovered myself. "

"You have ceased to roam the streets at night, and rouse the slumberingcitizens to repentance?" asked Leonard. 

"For the present I have, " returned Solomon Eagle. "But I shall appearagain when I am required. But you shall now learn why I have brought youhither. Look along those streets, " he added, pointing to thethoroughfares opening in different directions. "What see you?"

"I see men piling heaps of wood and coals at certain distances, as ifthey were preparing bonfires, " replied Leonard. "And yet it cannot be. This is no season for rejoicing. "

"It has been supposed that the lighting of many thousand fires at oncewill purify the air, " replied Solomon Eagle; "and therefore the LordMayor has given orders that heaps of fuel shall be placed before everyhouse in every street in the city, and that all these heaps shall bekindled at a certain hour. But it will be of no avail. The weather isnow fine and settled, and the sky cloudless. But the offended Deity willcause the heaviest rain to descend, and extinguish their fires. No--theway to avert the pestilence is not by fire, but by prayer and penitence, by humiliation and fasting. Let this sinful people put on sackcloth andashes. Let them beseech God, by constant prayer, to forgive them, andthey may prevail, but not otherwise. "

"And when are these fires to be lighted?" asked the apprentice. 

"To-night, at midnight, " replied Solomon Eagle. 

He then took Leonard by the hand, and led him back the same way he hadbrought him. On reaching the spiral staircase, he said, "If you desireto behold a sight, such as a man has seldom witnessed, ascend to thesummit of this tower an hour after midnight, when all these fires arelighted. A small door on the left of the northern entrance shall be leftopen. It will conduct you to the back of the choir, and you must thenfind your way hither as well as you can. "

Murmuring his thanks, Leonard hurried down the spiral staircase, andquitting the cathedral, proceeded in the direction of Wood-street. Preparations were everywhere making for carrying the Lord Mayor's ordersinto effect; and such was the beneficial result anticipated, that ageneral liveliness prevailed, on reaching his master's residence, hefound him at the shutter, curious to know what was going forward; andhaving informed him, the grocer immediately threw him down money toprocure wood and coal. 

"I have but little faith in the experiment, " he said, "but the LordMayor's injunctions must be obeyed. "

With the help of Dallison, who had now arrived, Leonard Holt soonprocured a large heap of fuel, and placed it in the middle of thestreet. The day was passed in executing other commissions for thegrocer, and he took his meals in the hutch with the porter. Timeappeared to pass with unusual slowness, and not he alone, but anxiousthousands, awaited the signal to kindle their fires. The night wasprofoundly dark and sultry, and Leonard could not help thinking that theenthusiast's prediction would be verified, and that rain would fall. Butthese gloomy anticipations vanished as the hour of midnight was tolledforth by the neighbouring clocks of Saint Michael's and Saint Alban's. Scarcely had the strokes died away, when Leonard seized a light and setfire to the pile. Ten thousand other piles were kindled at the samemoment, and in an instant the pitchy darkness was converted into lightas bright as that of noonday. 

Anxious to behold this prodigious illumination at its best, Leonard Holtcommitted the replenishing of the pile and the custody of the house toDallison, and hastened to Saint Paul's. A great fire was burning at eachangle of the cathedral, but without pausing to notice the effect of theflames upon the walls of the building, he passed through the door towhich he had been directed, and hastening to the spiral staircase beyondthe choir, ascended it with swift steps. He did not pause till hereached the summit of the tower, and there, indeed, a wondrous spectacleawaited him. The whole city seemed on fire, and girded with a flamingbelt--for piles were lighted at certain distances along the whole lineof walls. The groups of dark figures collected round the fires added totheir picturesque effect; and the course of every street could be tracedby the reflection of the flames on the walls and gables of the houses. London Bridge was discernible from the fires burning upon it--and evenupon the river braziers were lighted on all the larger craft, which casta ruddy glow upon the stream. 

After gazing at this extraordinary sight for some time, Leonard began todescend. As yet he had seen nothing of Solomon Eagle, and searching forhim in vain in the belfry, he quitted the cathedral. From a knot ofpersons gathered round one of the fires he learnt that the enthusiastwas addressing the crowd at the west side of the building, andproceeding thither he perceived him standing on the edge of thebalustrade of the south-western tower, surmounting the little church ofSaint Gregory. His brazier was placed on one of the buttresses, andthrew its light on the mighty central tower of the fabric, and on alarge clock-face immediately beneath. Solomon Eagle was evidentlydenouncing the city, but his words were lost in the distance. As heproceeded, a loud clap of thunder pealed overhead. 

"It comes--it comes!" cried the enthusiast, in a voice that could bedistinctly heard in the death-like stillness that followed the thunder. "The wrath of Heaven is at hand. "

As he spoke, a bright flash cut the air, and a bolt struck down, one ofthe pinnacles of the great tower. Flash after flash followed in quicksuccession, and the enthusiast, who seemed wrapped in flame, extendedhis arms towards Heaven, as if beseeching a further display of itsvengeance. Suddenly the lightning ceased to flash and the thunder toroll. A few heavy drops of rain fell. These were succeeded by a delugingshower of such violence, that in less than a quarter of an hour everyfire within the city was extinguished, and all was darkness and despair. 

The deepest gloom and despondency prevailed that night throughoutLondon. The sudden storm was regarded as a manifestation of thedispleasure of Heaven, and as an intimation that the arrows of its wrathwere not to be turned aside by any human efforts. So impressed were allwith this feeling, that when, in less than half an hour, the rainentirely ceased, the clouds cleared off, and the stars again poured downtheir lustre, no one attempted to relight the quenched embers, fearingto provoke the Divine vengeance. Nor was a monitor wanting to enforcethe awful lesson. Solomon Eagle, with his brazier on his head, ranthrough the streets, calling on the inhabitants to take to heart whathad happened, to repent, and prepare for their doom. 

"The Lord will not spare you, " he cried, as he stationed himself in theopen space before St. Stephen's, Walbrook. "He will visit your sins uponyou. Pray, therefore, that ye may not be destroyed, both body and soul. Little time is allowed you for repentance. Many that hear me shall notlive till tomorrow; few shall survive the year!"

"Thou, thyself, shalt not survive the night, false prophet, " cried avoice from a neighbouring window. And immediately afterwards the barrelof a gun was thrust forth and a shot fired at the enthusiast. But thoughSolomon Eagle never altered his position, he was wholly uninjured--theball striking a bystander, who fell to the ground mortally wounded. 

"You have shot your own son, Mr. Westwood, " cried one of the spectators, rushing up to the fallen man. "Who will henceforth doubt that SolomonEagle is under the care of a special providence?"

"Not I, " replied another spectator. "I shall never disregard his wordsin future. "

Setting down his brazier, the enthusiast bent over the dead man--fordead he was--and noted the placid smile upon his features. By this timethe unfortunate father had joined the group, and, on seeing the body ofhis son, wrung his hands in a pitiable manner, and gave utterance to thewildest expression of despair. No one attempted to seize him, till atlength Solomon Eagle, rising from his kneeling posture, laid his handupon his arm, and regarding him sternly, said, "What wrong have I doneyou, that you should seek to slay me?"

"What wrong?" rejoined Westwood--"such wrong as can never be repaired. Your fearful prophecies and denunciations so terrified my daughter, thatshe died distracted. My brokenhearted wife was not long in followingher; and now you have made me the murderer of my son. Complete thetragedy, and take my life. "

"I have no desire to do so, " replied Solomon Eagle, in a tone ofcommiseration. "My wish is to save your soul, and the souls of all wholisten to me. I wonder not that your anger was at first stirred againstme; but if your heart had been properly directed, indignation would havesoon given way to better feelings. My mission is not to terrify, but towarn. Why will ye thus continue impenitent when ye are spoken to, not bymy voice alone, but by a thousand others?--by the thunder--by therain--by the pestilence!--and ye shall be spoken to, if ye continuesenseless, by fire and by famine. Look at these quenched embers--atthese flooded streets--they are types of your vain struggle with asuperior power. Now, mark me what you must do to free the city fromcontagion. You must utterly and for ever abandon your evil courses. Youmust pray incessantly for remission of your sins. You must resignyourselves without repining to such chastisement as you have provoked, and must put your whole trust and confidence in God. Do this, and do itheartily; it is possible that His wrath may be averted. "

"I feel the force of your words, " faltered Westwood--"would I had feltit sooner!"

"Repentance never comes too late, " rejoined the enthusiast. "Let this bean example to you all. "

And snatching up his brazier, he continued his course at the samelightning speed as before. The unfortunate father was taken into his owndwelling, whither likewise the body of his son was conveyed. A strictwatch was kept over him during the night, and in the morning he wasremoved to Newgate, where he perished, in less than a week, of thedistemper. 

The aspect of the streets on the following day was deplorable enough. Not that the weather was unfavourable. On the contrary, it was brightand sunny, while the heated atmosphere, cooled, by the showers, felt nolonger oppressive. But the sight of the half-burnt fires struck a chillinto every bosom, and it was not until the heaps were removed, that themore timorous ventured forth at all. The result, too, of the experimentwas singularly unfortunate. Whether it was from the extraordinary heatoccasioned by the lighting of so many fires, or that the smoke did notascend, and so kept down the pestilential effluvia, or that the numberof persons who met together spread the contagion, certain it was thatthe pestilence was more widely extended than before, and the mortalityfearfully increased. 

On the commencement of the storm, Leonard Holt hurried back toWood-street, and reached his master's dwelling just as the rain began todescend in torrents. Mr. Bloundel was at the window, and a few wordsonly passed between him and the apprentice when the latter was compelledto take refuge in the hutch. Here he found Dallison the watchman, andthey listened in awe-struck silence to the heavy showers, and to thehissing of the blazing embers in their struggle against the hostileelement. By-and-by the latter sound ceased. Not a light could be seenthroughout the whole length of the street, nor was there any redreflection of the innumerable fires as heretofore in the sky. It wasevident all were extinguished; and the pitiless pelting of the rain, theroar of the water-spouts, and the rush of the over-filled kennels, nowconverted into rivulets, could alone be heard After awhile the stormcleared off, and Leonard and his companion issued from their retreat, and gazed in silence at the drenched heap before them. While thusoccupied, the window above them opened, and the grocer appeared at it. 

"This is, indeed, a sad and striking lesson, " he said, "and I hope willnot be lost upon those who have witnessed it. It shows the utterimpotency of a struggle against the Divine will, and that when a manrelies upon himself for preservation, he depends upon a broken reed. IfI did not place myself under Heaven's protection, I should be sure thatall my own precautions were unavailing. I am now about to call up myfamily to prayer. You can join us in our supplications, and I trust theywill not be unheard. "

Closing the window, the grocer retired, and Leonard returned to thehutch, where he fell upon his knees, and as soon as he supposed thefamily were gathered together, commenced his own prayers. He picturedthe whole group assembled--the fervour of the grocer excited to anunwonted pitch by what had just occurred--the earnest countenances ofhis wife and the younger children--and the exalted looks of Amabel. Hecould not see her--neither could he hear her voice--but he fancied howshe looked, and in what terms she prayed--and it was no slightsatisfaction to him to think that his own voice ascended to Heavencoupled with hers. 

On quitting the hutch, he found Dallison conversing with Doctor Hodges. The physician expressed great surprise at seeing him, and inquired howhe came to have left his master's house. Leonard related all that hadhappened, and besought his assistance in Nizza's behalf. 

"I will do all I can for her, " replied Hodges, "for I feel greatlyinterested about her. But who is this Sir Paul Parravicin? I never heardof him. "

"I know nothing more of him than what I have told you, sir, " repliedLeonard. "He is a friend of the Earl of Rochester. "

"It must be a feigned name, " rejoined Hodges; "but I will speedily findhim out. You must lodge at my house tonight. It will be better for youthan sleeping in that damp shed. But, first, I must have a word or twowith your master. I have been abroad all night, and came hither toascertain what he thought of this plan of the fires, and what he haddone. How do you give the signal to him?"

"There is a cord within the hutch by which you can sound a bell withinhis chamber, " returned Leonard; "I will ring it. "

Accordingly, he did so, and the summons was almost instantly answered bythe grocer. A kindly greeting passed between the latter and Hodges, whoinquired whether all was going on satisfactorily within, and whetheranything could be done for the family. 

"I would not have disturbed you at this unseasonable hour, " he said, "but chancing to be in your neighbourhood, and thinking it likely youwould be on the watch, I called to have a word with you. Though I couldnot foresee what would happen, I entirely disapproved of these fires aslikely to increase rather than check the pestilence. "

"The hand of Heaven has extinguished them because they were lighted inopposition to its decrees, " replied Bloundel; "but you have asked mewhether all is going on well within. I should answer readily in theaffirmative, but that my wife expresses much anxiety respecting Amabel. We have no longer any apprehension of misconduct. She is all we coulddesire--serious and devout. But we have fears for her health. Theconfinement may be too much for her. What would you recommend?"

"I must see her to be able to speak confidently, " replied Hodges. 

"I know not how that can be accomplished, unless you choose to ascend bya basket attached to the pulley, " replied the grocer, with somehesitation, "and it is against my plan to admit you. "

"But your daughter's life, my good friend, " rejoined Hodges; "think ofthat. If I choose to risk life and limb to visit her, you may surelyrisk the chance of contagion to admit me. But you need have no fear. Sprinkle your room with spirits of sulphur, and place a phial of vinegarso that I can use it on my first entrance into the house, and I willanswer for the safety of your family. "

These preparations made, Mr. Bloundel lowered the basket, into whichHodges got, and grasping the rope, not without some misgiving on hispart, he was drawn up. Leonard witnessed his ascent with a beatingheart, and could scarcely repress a feeling of envy when he saw him passthrough the window, and knew that he would soon be in the presence ofAmabel. But this feeling quickly changed into one of deep anxietyconcerning her. Her father's account of her had increased the uneasinesshe previously felt, and he was as anxious to know the doctor's opinionof her, as if his own fate had depended upon it. He was kept in thispainful state of suspense for nearly an hour, when voices were heard atthe window, and presently afterwards Hodges was carefully let down. Bidding the grocer farewell, he desired Leonard to follow him, and ledthe way towards Cheapside. They proceeded a short distance in silence, when the latter ventured to remark, "You say nothing about Amabel, sir?I fear you found her seriously indisposed. "

"Do not question me about her just now, " rejoined the doctor, in asubdued emotion. "I would rather not discuss the subject. "

Nothing more was said; for though the apprentice would willingly havecontinued the conversation, his companion's evident disinclination topursue it compelled him to desist. In this way, they reached thedoctor's residence, where Leonard was immediately shown to a comfortablebed. 

It was late when he awoke next day, and as the doctor was gone forth, hepartook of a plentiful breakfast which was placed before him, andrepaired to Wood-street, but his master having no commissions for him toexecute, he went back again. By this time, Doctor Hodges had returned, and calling him into his library told him he wished to speak with him. 

"You were right last night, " he said, "in construing my silence intoalarm for Amabel. In truth, I fear she is rapidly sinking into adecline, and nothing will arrest the progress of the insidious diseasebut instant removal to the country. To this she will not consent, neither do I know how it could be accomplished. It is pitiable to see solovely a creature dying, as I fear she is, of a broken heart. "

Leonard covered his face with his hands, and wept aloud. 

"We have not yet spoken of Nizza Macascree, " said Hodges, after a pause, tapping him kindly on the shoulder. "I think I have discovered a traceof her. "

"I am glad to hear it, " replied Leonard, rousing himself. "She isanother victim of these profligates. But I will be revenged upon themall. "

"I have before enjoined you to restrain your indignation, just though itbe, " returned Hodges. "I have not yet found out whither she has beentaken. But I have a clue which, unless I am mistaken, will lead me toit. But I must now dismiss you, I have other affairs to attend to, andmust give a dangerous and difficult case, on which I have beenconsulted, undisturbed consideration. Make my house your home as long asyou think proper. "

Warmly thanking the doctor, Leonard then withdrew. Shortly after this, he walked forth, and ascertaining that he was not required by hismaster, determined to satisfy himself by actual observation of theextent of the ravages of the plague. 

With this view, he shaped his course along Lad-lane, and traversingCateaton-street, entered Lothbury. The number of houses which he herefound closed, with red crosses on the doors, and the fatal inscriptionabove them, convinced him that the deplorable accounts he had heard werenot exaggerated. In passing some of these habitations, he saw suchghastly faces at the windows, and heard such lamentable cries, that hewas glad to hurry on and get out of sight and hearing. InThrogmorton-street, nearly opposite Drapers' Hall, a poor wretchsuddenly opened a casement, and before his attendants could force himback, threw himself from a great height to the ground, and broke hisneck. Another incident, of an equally distressing nature, occurred. Ayoung and richly-dressed young man issued from a tavern in Broad-street, and with a wild and inflamed countenance, staggered along. He addressedsome insulting language to Leonard, but the latter, who desired noquarrel, disregarded his remarks, and let him pass. The next personencountered by the drunken man was a young female. Suddenly catching herin his arms, he imprinted a kiss upon her lips: and then, with afrightful laugh, shouted, "I have given you the plague! Look here!" andtearing aside the collar of his shirt, he exhibited a large tumour. Theyoung woman uttered a shriek of terror and fainted, while her ruthlessassailant took to his heels, and running as long as his strength lasted, fell down, and was taken to the pest-house, where he was joined thatsame night by his victim. And this was by no means an uncommonoccurrence. The distemper acted differently on different temperaments. Some it inflamed to an ungovernable pitch of madness, others it reducedto the depths of despair, while in many cases it brought out andaggravated the worst parts of the character. Wives conveyed theinfection intentionally to their husbands, husbands to their wives, parents to their children, lovers to the objects of their affection, while, as in the case above mentioned, many persons ran about like rabidhounds, striving to communicate it to all they met. Greatly shocked atwhat had occurred, and yet not altogether surprised at it, for his mindhad become familiarized with horrors, Leonard struck down Finch-lane, and proceeded towards Cornhill. On the way, he noticed two dead bodieslying at the mouth of a small alley, and hastening past, was stopped atthe entrance to Cornhill by a butcher's apprentice, who was wheeling awaythe body of an old man, who had just died while purchasing meat at astall at Stock's Market. Filled with unutterable loathing at thismiserable spectacle, Leonard was fain to procure a glass of canary torecruit his spirits. 

Accordingly he proceeded to the Globe Tavern at the corner ofBirchin-lane. As he entered the house, a lively strain of music caughthis ear, and glancing in the direction of the sound, he found itproceeded from the blind piper, Mike Macascree, who was playing to somehalf-dozen roystering youths. Bell lay at her master's feet; and asLeonard approached the party, she pricked up her ears, and being calledby name, instantly sprang towards him, and manifested the strongestdelight. The piper stopped playing to listen to what was going forwardbut the young men urged him to proceed, and again filled his glass. 

"Don't drink any more, Mike, " said Leonard, "but step aside with me. I've something to say to you--something about your daughter. "

"My daughter!" exclaimed the piper, in a half-angry, half-sorrowfulvoice, while a slight moisture forced itself through his orbless lids. "I don't want to hear anything about her, except that she is dead. Shehas deserted me, and disgraced herself. "

"You are mistaken, " rejoined Leonard; "and if you will come with me, Iwill explain the truth to you. "

"I will listen to no explanation, " rejoined the piper, furiously, "shehas given me pain enough already. I'm engaged with this jovial company. Fill my glass, my masters--there, fill it again, " he added, draining iteagerly, and with the evident wish to drown all thought. "There, now youshall have such a tune, as was never listened to by mortal ears. "

A loud laugh from the young men followed this proposition, and the piperplayed away so furiously, that it added to their merriment. Touched withcompassion, Leonard walked aside, hoping, when the party broke up, to beable to have a word with the poor man. But the piper's excitementincreased. He played faster and drank harder, until it was evident hewas no longer in a condition to speak rationally. Leonard, therefore, addressed himself to the drawer, and desired him to look after thepiper, engaging to return before midnight to see how he went on. Thedrawer promising compliance, Leonard departed; and not feeling disposedto continue his walk, returned to Wood-street. 

Nothing particular occurred during the evening. Leonard did not seeDoctor Hodges, who was engaged in his professional duties; and afterkeeping watch before the grocer's till nearly midnight, he againretraced his steps to the Globe. The drawer was at the door, and aboutto close the house. 

"You will be sorry to learn the fate of the poor piper, " he said. 

"Why, what has happened to him?" cried Leonard. 

"He is dead of the plague, " was the reply. 

"What, so suddenly!" exclaimed the apprentice. "You are jesting withme. "

"Alas! it is no jest, " rejoined the drawer, in a tone that convinced theapprentice of his sincerity. "His entertainers quitted him about twohours ago, and in spite of my efforts to detain him, he left the house, and sat down on those steps. Concluding he would fall asleep, I did notdisturb him, and his dog kept careful watch over him. I forgot all abouthim till a short time ago, when hearing the pest-cart pass, I wentforth, and learnt that the drivers having found him dead, as theysupposed, of the pestilence, had placed their forks under his belt, andthrown him upon the other dead bodies. "

"And where is the dog?" cried Leonard. 

"She would not quit her master, " replied the drawer, "so the men threwher into the cart with him, saying, they would bury her in theplague-pit, as all dogs were ordered to be destroyed. "

"This must be prevented, " cried Leonard. "Which way did the dead-cartgo?"

"Towards Moorgate, " replied the drawer. 

Leonard heard no more; but dashing through a narrow passage opposite theConduit, passed Bartholomew-lane, and traversing Lothbury, soon reachedColeman-street and the old city gate, to which he had been directed. Here he learnt that the dead-cart had passed through it about fiveminutes before, and he hurried on towards Finsbury Fields. He had notproceeded far when he heard a sound as of a pipe at a distance, furiously played, and accompanied by the barking of a dog. These soundswere followed by cries of alarm, and he presently perceived two personsrunning towards him, with a swiftness which only could be occasioned byterror. One of them carried a lantern, and grasping his arm, theapprentice detained him. 

"What is the matter?" he asked. 

"The devil's the matter, " replied the man--"the piper's ghost hasappeared in that cart, and is playing his old tunes again. "

"Ay, it's either his spirit, or he is come to life again, " observed theother man, stopping likewise. "I tossed him into the cart myself, andwill swear he was dead enough then. "

"You have committed a dreadful mistake, " cried Leonard. "You have tosseda living man into the cart instead of a dead one. Do you not hear thosesounds?" And as he spoke, the notes of the pipe swelled to a louderstrain than ever. 

"I tell you it is the devil--or a ghost, " replied the driver; "I willstay here no longer. "

"Lend me your lantern, and I will go to the cart, " rejoined Leonard. 

"Take it, " replied the man; "but I caution you to stay where you are. You may receive a shock you will never survive. "

Paying no attention to what was said, Leonard ran towards the cart, andfound the piper seated upon a pile of dead bodies, most of them strippedof their covering, with Bell by his side, and playing away at aprodigious rate. 

III. 

THE DANCE OF DEATH. 

The condition of the prisons at this season was really frightful. InNewgate, in particular, where the distemper broke out at the beginningof June, it raged with such violence that in less than a week, more thanhalf the prisoners were swept off, and it appeared probable, that, unless its fury abated, not a soul would be left alive within it. At alltimes, this crowded and ill-kept prison was infested by the gaol-feverand other pestilential disorders, but these were mild in comparison withthe present terrible visitation. The atmosphere was noisome andmalignant; the wards were never cleansed; and many poor wretches, whodied in their cells, were left there till the attendants on thedead-cart chose to drag them forth. No restraint being placed upon thesick, and the rules of the prison allowing them the free use of anystrong liquors they could purchase, the scenes that occurred were toodreadful and revolting for description, and could only be paralleled bythe orgies of a pandemonium. Many reckless beings, conscious that theywere attacked by a fatal disorder, drank as long as they could raisethe' cup to their lips, and after committing the wildest and mostshocking extravagances, died in a state of frenzy. 

Newgate became thus, as it were, the very focus of infection, where theplague assumed its worst aspect, and where its victims perished far moreexpeditiously than elsewhere. Two of the turnkeys had already died ofthe distemper, and such was the alarm entertained, that no persons couldbe found to supply their places. To penetrate the recesses of theprison, was almost to insure destruction, and none but the attendants ofthe dead-cart and the nurses attempted it. Among the latter was Judith. Employed as a nurse on the first outburst of the plague, she willinglyand fearlessly undertook the office. The worse the disease became thebetter pleased she appeared; and she was so utterly withoutapprehension, that when no one would approach the cell where somewretched sufferer lay expiring, she unhesitatingly entered it. But itwas not to render aid, but to plunder, that she thus exercised herfunctions. She administered no medicine, dressed no tumours, and did notcontribute in the slightest degree to the comfort of the miserablewretches committed to her charge. All she desired was to obtain whatevervaluables they possessed, or to wring from them any secret that mightafterwards be turned to account. Foreseeing that Newgate must ere longbe depopulated, and having no fears for herself, she knew that she mustthen be liberated, and be able once more to renew her mischievouspractices upon mankind. Her marvellous preservation throughout all thedangers to which she was exposed seemed almost to warrant thesupposition that she had entered into a compact with the pestilence, toextend its ravages by every means in her power, on the condition ofbeing spared herself. 

Soon after the outbreak of the plague in Newgate, all the debtors wereliberated, and if the keepers had had their own way, the common felonswould have been likewise released. But this could not be, and they werekept to perish as before described. Matters, however, grew so serious, that it became a question whether the few miserable wretches left aliveought to be longer detained, and at last the turnkeys refusing to actany longer, and delivering their keys to the governor, the whole of theprisoners were set free. 

On the night of their liberation, Chowles and Judith proceeded to thevaults of Saint Faith's, to deposit within them the plunder they hadobtained in the prison. They found them entirely deserted. Neitherverger, sexton, nor any other person, was to be seen, and they took uptheir quarters in the crypt. Having brought a basket of provisions and afew bottles of wine with them, they determined to pass the night inrevelry; and, accordingly, having lighted a fire with the fragments ofold coffins brought from the charnel, they sat down to their meal. Having done full justice to it, and disposed of the first flask, theywere about to abandon themselves to unrestrained enjoyment, when theirglee was all at once interrupted by a strange and unaccountable noise inthe adjoining church. Chowles, who had just commenced chanting one ofhis wild melodies, suddenly stopped, and Judith set down the glass shehad raised to her lips untested. What could it mean? Neither of themcould tell. It seemed like strains of unearthly music, mixed withshrieks and groans as of tortured spirits, accompanied by peals of suchlaughter as might be supposed to proceed, from demons. 

"The dead are burst forth from their tombs, " cried Chowles, in aquavering voice, "and are attended by a legion of evil spirits. "

"It would seem so, " replied Judith, rising. "I should like to behold thesight. Come with me. "

"Not for the world!" rejoined Chowles, shuddering, "and I wouldrecommend you to stay where you are. You may behold your dead husbandamong them. "

"Do you think so?" rejoined Judith, halting. 

"I am sure of it, " cried Chowles, eagerly. "Stay where you are--staywhere you are. "

As he spoke, there was another peal of infernal laughter, and thestrains of music grew louder each moment. 

"Come what may, I will see what it is, " said Judith, emptying her glass, as if seeking courage from the draught. "Surely, " she added, in ataunting tone, "you will come with me. "

"I am afraid of nothing earthly, " rejoined Chowles--"but I do not liketo face beings of another world. "

"Then I will go alone, " rejoined Judith. 

"Nay, that shall never be, " replied Chowles, tottering after her. 

As they opened the door and crossed the charnel, such an extraordinarycombination of sounds burst upon their ears that they again paused, andlooked anxiously at each other. Chowles laid his hand on his companion'sarm, and strove to detain her, but she would not be stayed, and he wasforced to proceed. Setting down the lamp on the stone floor, Judithpassed into the subterranean church, where she beheld a sight thatalmost petrified her. In the midst of the nave, which was illumined by ablue glimmering light, whence proceeding it was impossible to determine, stood a number of grotesque figures, apparelled in fantastic garbs, andeach attended by a skeleton. Some of the latter grisly shapes wereplaying on tambours, others on psalteries, others on rebecs--everyinstrument producing the strangest sound imaginable. Viewed through themassive pillars, beneath that dark and ponderous roof, and by the mysticlight before described, this strange company had a supernaturalappearance, and neither Chowles nor Judith doubted for a moment thatthey beheld before them a congregation of phantoms. An irresistiblefeeling of curiosity prompted them to advance. On drawing nearer, theyfound the assemblage comprehended all ranks of society. There was a popein his tiara and pontifical dress; a cardinal in his cap and robes; amonarch with a sceptre in his hand, and arrayed in the habiliments ofroyalty; a crowned queen; a bishop wearing his mitre, and carrying hiscrosier; an abbot, likewise in his mitre, and bearing a crosier; a dukein his robes of state; a grave canon of the church; a knight sheathed inarmour; a judge, an advocate, and a magistrate, all in their robes; amendicant friar and a nun; and the list was completed by a physician, anastrologer, a miser, a merchant, a duchess, a pedler, a soldier, agamester, an idiot, a robber, a blind man, and a beggar--eachdistinguishable by his apparel. 

By-and-by, with a wild and gibbering laugh that chilled the beholders'blood, one of the tallest and grisliest of the skeletons sprang forward, and beating his drum, the whole ghostly company formed, two and two, into a line--a skeleton placing itself on the right of every mortal. Inthis order, the fantastic procession marched between the pillars, theunearthly music playing all the while, and disappeared at the furtherextremity of the church. With the last of the group, the mysteriouslight vanished, and Chowles and his companion were left in profounddarkness. 

"What can it mean?" cried Judith, as soon as she recovered her speech. "Are they human, or spirits?"

"Human beings don't generally amuse themselves in this way, " returnedChowles. "But hark!--I still hear the music. --They are above--in SaintPaul's. "

"Then I will join them, " said Judith. "I am resolved to see the end ofit. "

"Don't leave me behind, " returned Chowles, following her. "I wouldrather keep company with Beelzebub and all his imps than be alone. "

Both were too well acquainted with the way to need any light. Ascendingthe broad stone steps, they presently emerged into the cathedral, whichthey found illumined by the same glimmering light as the lower church, and they perceived the ghostly assemblage gathered into an immense ring, and dancing round the tall skeleton, who continued beating his drum, anduttering a strange gibbering sound, which was echoed by the others. Eachmoment the dancers increased the swiftness of their pace, until at lastit grew to a giddy whirl, and then, all at once, with a shriek oflaughter, the whole company fell to the ground. 

Chowles and Judith, then, for the first time, understood, from theconfusion that ensued, and the exclamations uttered, that they were nospirits they had to deal with, but beings of the same mould asthemselves. Accordingly, they approached the party of masquers, for suchthey proved, and found on inquiry that they were a party of younggallants, who, headed by the Earl of Rochester--the representative ofthe tall skeleton--had determined to realize the Dance of Death, as oncedepicted on the walls of an ancient cloister at the north of thecathedral, called Pardon-churchyard, on the walls of which, says Stowe, were "artificially and richly painted the Dance of Macabre, or Dance ofDeath, commonly called the Dance of Paul's, the like whereof was paintedabout Saint Innocent's, at Paris. The metres, or poesy of this dance, "proceeds the same authority, "were translated out of Trench into Englishby John Lydgate, monk of Bury, and, with the picture of Death leadingall estates, painted about the cloister, at the special request andexpense of Jenkin Carpenter, in the reign of Henry the Sixth. "Pardon-churchyard was pulled down by the Protector Somerset, in thereign of Edward the Sixth, and the materials employed in the erection ofhis own palace in the Strand. It was the discussion of these singularpaintings, and of the designs on the same subject ascribed to Holbein, that led the Earl of Rochester and his companions to propose thefantastic spectacle above described. With the disposition which thisreckless nobleman possessed to turn the most solemn and appallingsubjects to jest, he thought no season so fitting for such anentertainment as the present--just as in our own time the livelyParisians made the cholera, while raging in their city, the subject of acarnival pastime. The exhibition witnessed by Chowles and Judith was arehearsal of the masque intended to be represented in the cathedral onthe following night. 

Again marshalling his band, the Earl of Rochester beat his drum, andskipping before them, led the way towards the south door of thecathedral, which was thrown open by an unseen hand, and the processionglided through it like a troop of spectres. Chowles, whose appearancewas not unlike that of an animated skeleton, was seized with a strangedesire to join in what was going forward, and taking off his doublet, and baring his bony arms and legs, he followed the others, dancing roundJudith in the same manner that the other skeletons danced round theirpartners. 

On reaching the Convocation House, a door was opened, and the processionentered the cloisters; and here Chowles, dragging Judith into the areabetween him and the beautiful structure they surrounded, began a danceof so extraordinary a character that the whole troop collected round towitness it. Rochester beat his drum, and the other representatives ofmortality who were provided with musical instruments struck up a wildkind of accompaniment, to which Chowles executed the most grotesqueflourishes. So wildly excited did he become, and such extravagances didhe commit, that even Judith stared aghast at him, and began to think hiswits were fled. Now he whirled round her--now sprang high into theair--now twined his lean arms round her waist--now peeped over oneshoulder, now over the other--and at last griped her neck so forcibly, that he might perhaps have strangled her, if she had not broken fromhim, and dealt him a severe blow that brought him senseless to theground. On recovering, he found himself in the arched entrance of alarge octagonal chamber, lighted at each side by a lofty pointed windowfilled with stained glass. Round this chamber ran a wide stone bench, with a richly-carved back of the same material, on which the masquerswere seated, and opposite the entrance was a raised seat, ordinarilyallotted to the dean, but now occupied by the Earl of Rochester. Acircular oak table stood in the midst of the chamber, covered withmagnificent silver dishes, heaped with the choicest viands, which werehanded to the guests by the earl's servants, all of whom representedskeletons, and it had a strange effect, to behold these ghastly objectsfilling the cups of the revellers, bending obsequiously before someblooming dame, or crowding round their spectral-looking lord. 

At first, Chowles was so confused, that he thought he must have awakenedin another world, but by degrees he called to mind what had occurred, and ascertained from Judith that he was in the Convocation House. Getting up, he joined the train of grisly attendants, and acquittedhimself so well that the earl engaged him as performer in the masque. Hewas furthermore informed that, in all probability, the king himself, with many of his favourite nobles, and the chief court beauties, wouldbe present to witness the spectacle. 

The banquet over, word was brought that chairs and coaches were without, and the company departed, leaving behind only a few attendants, whoremained to put matters in order. 

While they were thus occupied, Judith, who had fixed her greedy eyesupon the plate, observed, in an under-tone, to Chowles, "There will befine plunder for us. We must manage to carry off all that plate whilethey are engaged in the masque. "

"You must do it yourself, then, " returned Chowles, in the sametone--"for I shall have to play a principal part in the entertainment, and as the king himself will be present, I cannot give up such anopportunity of distinguishing myself. "

"You can have no share in the prize, if you lend no assistance, " repliedJudith, with a dissatisfied look. 

"Of course not, " rejoined Chowles; "on this occasion it is all yours. The Dance of Death is too much to my taste to be given up. "

Perceiving they were noticed, Chowles and Judith then left theConvocation House, and returned to the vault in Saint Faith's, nor didthey emerge from it until late on the following day. 

Some rumour of the masque having gone abroad, towards evening a crowd, chiefly composed of the most worthless order of society, collected underthe portico at the western entrance, and the great doors being opened byChowles, they entered the cathedral. Thus was this sacred building oncemore invaded--once again a scene of noise, riot, and confusion--itsvaulted roofs instead of echoing the voice of prayer, or the choralhymn, resounded with loud laughter, imprecations, and licentiousdiscourse. This disorder, however, was kept in some bounds by a strongbody of the royal guard, who soon afterwards arrived, and stationingthemselves in parties of three or four at each of the massive columnsflanking the aisles, maintained some show of decorum. Besides these, there were others of the royal attendants, bearing torches, who walkedfrom place to place, and compelled all loiterers in dark corners toproceed to the nave. 

A little before midnight, the great doors were again thrown open, and alarge troop of richly-attired personages, all wearing masks, wereadmitted. For a short time they paced to and fro between its shaftedpillars gazing at the spectators grouped around, and evidently, fromtheir jests and laughter, not a little entertained by the scene. As theclock struck twelve, however, all sounds were hushed, and the courtlyparty stationed themselves on the steps leading to the choir. At thesame moment, also, the torches were extinguished, and the whole of thebuilding buried in profound darkness. Presently after, a sound was heardof footsteps approaching the nave, but nothing could be discerned. Expectation was kept on the rack for some minutes, during which many astifled cry was heard from those whose courage failed them at thistrying juncture. All at once, a blue light illumined the nave, andpartially revealed the lofty pillars by which it was surrounded. By thislight the whole of the ghostly company could be seen drawn up near thewestern door. They were arranged two and two, a skeleton standing asbefore on the right of each character. The procession next marchedslowly and silently towards the choir, and drew up at the foot of thesteps, to give the royal party an opportunity of examining them. Afterpausing there for a few minutes, Rochester, in the dress of the largerskeleton, started off, and, beating his drum, was followed by the popeand his attendant skeleton. This couple having danced together for someminutes, to the infinite diversion of the spectators, disappeared behinda pillar, and were succeeded by the monarch and a second skeleton. These, in their turn, gave way to the cardinal and his companion, and soon till the whole of the masquers had exhibited themselves, when at asignal from the earl the party re-appeared, and formed a ring round him. The dance was executed with great spirit, and elicited tumultuousapplause from all the beholders. The earl now retired, and Chowles tookhis place. He was clothed in an elastic dress painted of a leaden andcadaverous colour, which fitted closely to his fleshless figure, anddefined all his angularities. He carried an hour-glass in one hand and adart in the other, and in the course of the dance kept continuallypointing the latter at those who moved around him. His feats of theprevious evening were nothing to his present achievements. His jointscreaked, and his eyes flamed like burning coals. As he continued, hisexcitement increased. He bounded higher, and his countenance assumed sohideous an expression, that those near him recoiled in terror, crying, "Death himself had broke loose among them. " The consternation soonbecame general. The masquers fled in dismay, and scampered along theaisles scarcely knowing whither they were going. Delighted with thealarm he occasioned, Chowles chased a large party along the northernaisle, and was pursuing them across the transept upon which it opened, when he was arrested in his turn by another equally formidable figure, who suddenly placed himself in his path. 

"Hold!" exclaimed Solomon Eagle--for it was the enthusiast--in a voiceof thunder, "it is time this scandalous exhibition should cease. Knowall ye who make a mockery of death, that his power will be speedily andfearfully approved upon you. Thine not to escape the vengeance of theGreat Being whose temple you have profaned. And you, O king! who havesanctioned these evil doings by your presence, and who by your owndissolute life set a pernicious example to all your subjects, know thatyour city shall be utterly laid waste, first by plague and then by fire. Tremble! my warning is as terrible and true as the handwriting on thewall. "

"Who art thou who holdest this language towards me?" demanded Charles. 

"I am called Solomon Eagle, " replied the enthusiast, "and am chargedwith a mission from on high to warn your doomed people of their fate. Bewarned yourself, sire! Your end will be sudden. You will be snatchedaway in the midst of your guilty pleasure, and with little time forrepentance. Be warned, I say again. "

With this he turned to depart. 

"Secure the knave, " cried Charles, angrily. "He shall be soundlyscourged for his insolence. "

But bursting through the guard, Solomon Eagle ran swiftly up the choirand disappeared, nor could his pursuers discover any traces of him. 

"Strange!" exclaimed the king, when he was told of the enthusiast'sescape. "Let us go to supper. This masque has given me the vapours. "

"Pray Heaven it have not given us the plague, " observed the fairStewart, who stood beside him, taking his arm. 

"It is to be hoped not, " rejoined Charles; "but, odds fish! it is a mostdismal affair. "

"It is so, in more ways than one, " replied Rochester, "for I have justlearnt that all my best plate has been carried off from the ConvocationHouse. I shall only be able to offer your majesty and your fair partnera sorry supper. "

IV. 

THE PLAGUE-PIT. 

On being made acquainted by Leonard, who helped him out of thepest-cart, with the danger he had run, the piper uttered a cry ofterror, and swooned away. The buriers, seeing how matters stood, andthat their superstitious fears were altogether groundless, now returned, and one of them, producing a phial of vinegar, sprinkled the faintingman with it, and speedily brought him to himself. But though so farrecovered, his terror had by no means abated, and he declared his firmconviction that he was infected by the pestilence. 

"I have been carried towards the plague-pit by mistake, " he said. "Ishall soon be conveyed thither in right earnest, and not have the powerof frightening away my conductors on the road. "

"Pooh! pooh!" cried one of the buriers, jestingly. "I hope you willoften ride with us, and play us many a merry tune as you go. You shallalways be welcome to a seat in the cart. "

"Be of good cheer, " added Leonard, "and all will be well. Come with meto an apothecary's shop, and I will procure a cordial for you, whichshall speedily dispel your qualms. "

The piper shook his head, and replied, with a deep groan, that he wascertain all was over with him. 

"However, I will not reject your kindness, " he added, "though I feel Iam past the help of medicine. "

"With this, he whistled to Bell, who was skipping about Leonard, havingrecognised him on his first approach, and they proceeded towards thesecond postern in London-wall, between Moorgate and Cripplegate; whilethe buriers, laughing heartily at the adventure, took their way towardsthe plague-pit, and discharged their dreadful load within it. Arrived inBasinghall-street, and looking round, Leonard soon discovered by thelinks at the door, as well as by the crowd collected before it--for dayand night the apothecaries' dwellings were besieged by the sick--theshop of which he was in search. It was long before they could obtainadmittance, and during this time the piper said he felt himself gettingrapidly worse; but, imagining he was merely labouring under the effectof fright, Leonard paid little attention to his complaints. Theapothecary, however, no sooner set eyes upon him, than he pronounced himinfected, and, on examination, it proved that the fatal tokens hadalready appeared. 

"I knew it was so, " cried the piper. "Take me to the pest-house--take meto the pest-house!"

"His desire had better be complied with, " observed the apothecary. "Heis able to walk thither now, but I will not answer for his being able todo so two hours hence. It is a bad case, " he added in an under-tone toLeonard. 

Feeing the apothecary, Leonard set out with the piper, and passingthrough Cripplegate, they entered the open fields. Here they paused fora moment, and the little dog ran round and round them, barkinggleefully. 

"Poor Bell!" cried the piper; "what will become of thee when I am gone?"

"If you will entrust her to me, I will take care of her, " repliedLeonard. 

"She is yours, " rejoined the piper, in a voice hoarse with emotion. "Bekind to her for my sake, and for the sake of her unfortunate mistress. "

"Since you have alluded to your daughter, " returned Leonard, "I musttell you what has become of her. I have not hitherto mentioned thesubject, fearing it might distress you. "

"Have no further consideration, but speak out, " rejoined the piper. "Beit what it may, I will bear it like a man. "

Leonard then briefly recounted all that had occurred, describing Nizza'sdisguise as a page, and her forcible abduction by Parravicin. He wasfrequently interrupted by the groans of his hearer, who at last gavevent to his rage and anguish in words. 

"Heaven's direst curse upon her ravisher!" he cried. "May he endureworse misery than I now endure. She is lost for ever. "

"She may yet be preserved, " rejoined Leonard. "Doctor Hodges thinks hehas discovered her retreat, and I will not rest till I find her. "

"No--no, you will never find her, " replied the piper, bitterly; "or ifyou do, it will be only to bewail her ruin. "

His rage then gave way to such an access of grief, that, letting hishead fall on Leonard's shoulder, he wept aloud. 

"There is a secret connected with that poor girl, " he said, at length, controlling his emotion by a powerful effort, "which must now go to thegrave with me. The knowledge of it would only add to her distress. "

"You view the matter too unfavourably, " replied Leonard; "and if thesecret is of any moment, I entreat you to confide it to me. If yourworst apprehensions should prove well founded, I promise you it shallnever be revealed to her. "

"On that condition only, I will confide it to you, " replied the piper;"but not now--not now--to-morrow morning, if I am alive. "

"It may be out of your power then, " returned Leonard, "For yourdaughter's sake, I urge you not to delay. "

"It is for her sake I am silent, " rejoined the piper. "Come along--comealong" he added, hurrying forward. "Are we far from the pest-house? Mystrength is failing me. "

On arriving at their destination, they were readily admitted to theasylum; but a slight difficulty arose, which, however, was speedilyobviated. All the couches were filled, but on examining them it wasfound that one of the sick persons had just been released from hissufferings, and the body being removed, the piper was allowed to takeits place. Leonard remained by him for a short time, but, overpowered bythe pestilential effluvia, and the sight of so many miserable objects, he was compelled to seek the open air. Returning, however, shortlyafterwards, he found the piper in a very perturbed state. On hearingLeonard's voice he appeared greatly relieved, and, taking his gown frombeneath his pillow, gave it to him, and desired him to unrip a part ofthe garment, in which it was evident something was sewn. The apprenticecomplied, and a small packet dropped forth. 

"Take it, " said the piper; "and if I die, --and Nizza should happily bepreserved from her ravisher, give it her. But not otherwise--nototherwise. Implore her to forgive me--to pity me. "

"Forgive you--her father?" cried Leonard, in astonishment. 

"That packet will explain all, " replied the piper in a troubled tone. "You promised to take charge of poor Bell, " he added, drawing forth thelittle animal, who had crept to the foot of the bed, "here she is. Farewell! my faithful friend, " he added, pressing his rough lips to herforehead, while she whined piteously, as if beseeching him to allow herto remain; "farewell for ever. "

"Not for ever, I trust, " replied Leonard, taking her gently from him. 

"And now you had better go, " said the piper. "Return, if you can, to-morrow. "

"I will, --I will, " replied Leonard; and he hurried out of the room. 

He was followed to the door by the young chirurgeon--the same who hadaccompanied Mr. Bloundel during his inspection of the pest-house, --andhe inquired of him if he thought the piper's case utterly hopeless. 

"Not utterly so, " replied the young man. "I shall be able to speak morepositively in a few hours. At present, I think, with care and attention, there _is_ a chance of his recovery. "

Much comforted by this assurance, Leonard departed, and afraid to putBell to the ground lest she should run back to her master, he continuedto carry her, and endeavoured to attach her to him by caresses andendearments. The little animal showed her sense of his kindness bylicking his hands, but she still remained inconsolable, and ever andanon struggled to get free. Making the best of his way to Wood-street, he entered the hutch, and placing a little straw in one corner for Bell, threw himself on a bench and dropped asleep. At six o'clock he wasawakened by the barking of the dog, and opening the door beheldDallison. The grocer was at the window above, and about to let down abasket of provisions to them. To Leonard's eager inquiries after Amabel, Mr. Bloundel replied by a melancholy shake of the head, and soonafterwards withdrew. With a sad heart, the apprentice then broke hisfast, --not forgetting at the same time the wants of his littlecompanion, --and finding he was not required by his master, he proceededto Doctor Hodges' residence. He was fortunate enough to find thefriendly physician at home, and, after relating to him what hadoccurred, committed the packet to his custody. 

"It will be safer in your keeping than mine, " he said; "and if anythingshould happen to me, you will, I am sure, observe the wishes of the poorpiper. "

"Rely upon it, I will, " replied Hodges. "I am sorry to tell you I havebeen misled as to the clue I fancied I had obtained to Nizza's retreat. We are as far from the mark as ever. "

"Might not the real name of the villain who has assumed the name of SirPaul Parravicin be ascertained from the Earl of Rochester?" rejoinedLeonard. 

"So I thought, " replied Hodges; "and I made the attempt yesterday, butit failed. I was at Whitehall, and finding the earl in the king'spresence, suddenly asked him where I could find his friend Sir PaulParravicin. He looked surprised at the question, glanced significantlyat the monarch, and then carelessly answered that he knew no suchperson. "

"A strange idea crosses me, " cried Leonard. "Can it be the king who hasassumed this disguise?"

"At one time I suspected as much, " rejoined Hodges; "but setting asideyour description of the person, which does not tally with that ofCharles, I am satisfied from other circumstances it is not so. Afterall, I should not wonder if poor Bell, " smoothing her long silky ears asshe lay in the apprentice's arms, "should help us to discover hermistress. And now, " he added, "I shall go to Wood-street to inquireafter Amabel, and will then accompany you to the pest-house. From whatyou tell me the young chirurgeon said of the piper, I do not despair ofhis recovery. "

"Poor as his chance may appear, it is better, I fear, than Amabel's, "sighed the apprentice. 

"Ah!" exclaimed Hodges, in a sorrowful tone, "hers is slight indeed. "

And perceiving that the apprentice was greatly moved, he waited for amoment till he had recovered himself, and then, motioning him to followhim, they quitted the house together. 

On reaching Mr. Bloundel's habitation, Leonard pulled the cord in thehutch, and the grocer appeared at the window. 

"My daughter has not left her bed this morning, " he said, in answer tothe doctor's inquiries, "and I fear she is much worse. My wife is withher. It would be a great satisfaction to me if you would see her again. "

After some little hesitation, Hodges assented, and was drawn up asbefore. He returned in about half an hour, and his grave countenanceconvinced Leonard that his worst anticipations were correct. Hetherefore forbore to question him, and they walked towards Cripplegatein silence. 

On emerging into the fields, Hodges observed to his companion, "It isstrange that I who daily witness such dreadful suffering should bepained by the gradual and easy decline of Amabel. But so it is. Her casetouches me more than the worst I have seen of the plague. "

"I can easily account for the feeling, " groaned Leonard. 

"I am happy to say I have prevailed on her, if she does not improve in ashort time, --and there is not the slightest chance of it, --to try theeffect of a removal to the country. Her father also consents to theplan. "

"I am glad to hear it, " replied Leonard. "But whither will she go, andwho will watch over her?"

"That is not yet settled, " rejoined Hodges. 

"Oh! that I might be permitted to undertake the office!" cried Leonard, passionately. 

"Restrain yourself, " said Hodges, in a tone of slight rebuke. "Fittingattendance will be found, if needed. "

The conversation then dropped, and they walked briskly forward. Theywere now within a short distance of the pest-house, and Leonard, hearingfootsteps behind him, turned and beheld a closed litter, borne by twostout porters, and evidently containing a plague-patient. He steppedaside to let it pass, when Bell, suddenly pricking her ears, uttered asingular cry, and bursting from him, flew after the litter, leapingagainst it and barking joyfully. The porters, who were proceeding at aquick pace, tried to drive her away, but without effect, and shecontinued her cries until they reached the gates of the pest-house. Invain Leonard whistled to her, and called her back. She paid no attentionwhatever to him. 

"I almost begin to fear, " said Hodges, unable to repress a shudder, "that the poor animal will, indeed, be the means of discovering for usthe object of our search. "

"I understand what you mean, " rejoined Leonard, "and am of the sameopinion as yourself. Heaven grant we may be mistaken!"

And as he spoke, he ran forward, and, followed by Hodges, reached thepest-house just as the litter was taken into it. 

"Silence that accursed dog, " cried one of the porters, "and bid a nurseattend us. We have a patient for the women's ward. "

"Let me see her, " cried Hodges. "I am a physician. "

"Readily, sir, " replied the porter. "It is almost over with her, poorsoul! It would have saved time and trouble to take her to the plague-pitat once. She cannot last many hours. Curse the dog! Will it never ceasehowling?"

Leonard here seized Bell, fearing she might do some mischief, and with asad foreboding beheld the man draw back the curtains of the litter. Hisfears proved well founded. There, stretched upon the couch, with herdark hair unbound, and flowing in wild disorder over her neck, lay NizzaMacascree. The ghastly paleness of her face could not, however, entirelyrob it of its beauty, and her dark eyes were glazed and lustreless. Atthe sight of her mistress, poor Bell uttered so piteous a cry, thatLeonard, moved by compassion, placed her on the pillow beside her, andthe sagacious animal did not attempt to approach nearer, but merelylicked her cheek. Roused by the touch, Nizza turned to see what was nearher, and recognising the animal, made a movement to strain her to herbosom, but the pain she endured was so intense that she sank back with adeep groan. 

"From whom did you receive this young woman?" demanded Hodges, of one ofthe porters. 

"She was brought to us by two richly-attired lacqueys, " replied the man, "in this very litter. They paid us to carry her here without loss oftime. "

"You have an idea whose servants they were?" pursued Hodges. 

"Not the least, " replied the fellow; "but I should judge, from therichness of their dress, that they belonged to some nobleman. "

"Did they belong to the royal household?" inquired Leonard. 

"No, no, " rejoined the man. "I am certain as to that. "

"The poor girl shall not remain here, " observed Hodges, to theapprentice. "You must convey her to my residence in GreatKnightrider-street, " he added, to the porters. 

"We will convey her wherever you please, " replied the men, "if we arepaid for our trouble. "

And they were about to close the curtains, when Nizza, having caughtsight of the apprentice, slightly raised herself, and cried, in a voiceof the utmost anxiety, "Is that you, Leonard?"

"It is, " he replied, approaching her. 

"Then I shall die happy, since I have seen you once more, " she said. "Oh, do not stay near me. You may catch the infection. "

"Nizza, " said Leonard, disregarding the caution, and breathing the wordsin her ear; "allay my fears by a word. You have not fallen a victim tothe villain who carried you away?"

"I have not, Leonard, " she replied, solemnly, "I resisted hisimportunities, his threats, his violence, and would have slain myselfrather than have yielded to him. The plague, at length, came to myrescue, and I have reason to be grateful to it; for it has not onlydelivered me from him, but has brought me to you. "

"I must now impose silence upon you, " interposed Hodges, laying hisfinger on his lips; "further conversation will be hurtful. "

"One question more, and I have done, " replied Nizza. "How came Bell withyou--and where is my father? Nothing has happened to him?" shecontinued, observing Leonard's countenance change. "Speak! do not keepme in suspense. Your silence fills me with apprehension. Speak, Iimplore you. He is dead?"

"No, " replied Leonard, "he is not dead--but he is an inmate of thisplace. "

"Ah!" exclaimed Nizza, falling back senseless upon the pillow. 

And in this state she was conveyed with the greatest expedition to thedoctor's residence. 

Leonard only tarried to visit the piper, whom he found slightlydelirious, and unable to hold any conversation with him, and promisingto return in the evening, he set out after the litter. Nizza was placedin the best apartment of the doctor's house, and attended by anexperienced and trustworthy nurse. But Hodges positively refused to letLeonard see her again, affirming that the excitement was too much forher, and might militate against the chance of her recovery. 

"I am not without hopes of bringing her through, " he said, "and thoughit will be a severe struggle, yet, as she has youth and a goodconstitution on her side, I do not despair. If she herself would secondme, I should be yet more confident. "

"How mean you?" inquired Leonard. 

"I think if she thought life worth a struggle--if, in short, shebelieved you would return her attachment, she would rally, " answeredHodges. 

"I cannot consent to deceive her thus, " rejoined Leonard, sadly. "Myheart is fixed elsewhere. "

"Your heart is fixed upon one who will soon be in her grave, " repliedthe doctor. 

"And with her my affections will be buried, " rejoined Leonard, turningaway to hide his tears. 

So well was the doctor's solicitude rewarded, that three days afterNizza had come under his care, he pronounced her out of danger. But theviolence of the attack left her so weak and exhausted, that he stillwould not allow an interview to take place between her and Leonard. During all this time Bell never left her side, and her presence was aninexpressible comfort to her. The piper, too, was slowly recovering, andLeonard, who daily visited him, was glad to learn from the youngchirurgeon that he would be able to leave the pest-house shortly. Havingascertained from Leonard that his daughter was under the care of DoctorHodges, and likely to do well, the piper begged so earnestly that thepacket might not be delivered to her, that, after some consultation withHodges, Leonard restored it to him. He was delighted to get it back, felt it carefully over to ascertain that the seals were unbroken, andsatisfied that all was safe, had it again sewn up in his gown, which heplaced under his pillow. 

"I would rather disclose the secret to her by word of mouth than in anyother way, " he said. 

Leonard felt doubtful whether the secret would now be disclosed at all, but he made no remark. 

Night was drawing on as he quitted the pest-house, and he determined totake this opportunity of visiting the great plague-pit, which lay abouta quarter of a mile distant, in a line with the church ofAll-Hallows-in-the-Wall, and he accordingly proceeded in that direction. The pit which he was about to visit was about forty feet long, twentywide, and the like number deep. Into this tremendous chasm the dead werepromiscuously thrown, without regard to sex or condition, generallystripped of their clothing, and covered with a slight layer of earth andquick lime. 

The sun was setting as Leonard walked towards this dismal place, and hethought he had never witnessed so magnificent a sight. Indeed, it wasremarked that at this fatal season the sunsets were unusually splendid. The glorious orb sank slowly behind Saint Paul's, which formed aprominent object in the view from the fields, and threw out its centraltower, its massive roof, and the two lesser towers flanking the portico, into strong relief. Leonard gazed at the mighty fabric, which seemeddilated to twice its size by this light, and wondered whether it waspossible that it could ever be destroyed, as predicted by Solomon Eagle. 

Long after the sun had set, the sky was stained with crimson, and thegrey walls of the city were tinged with rosy radiance. The heat wasintense, and Leonard, to cool himself, sat down in the thick grass--for, though the crops were ready for the scythe, no mowers could befound--and, gazing upwards, strove to mount in spirit from the taintedearth towards heaven. After a while he arose, and proceeded towards theplague-pit. The grass was trampled down near it, and there were marks offrequent cart-wheels upon the sod. Great heaps of soil, thrown out ofthe excavation, lay on either side. Holding a handkerchief steeped invinegar to his face, Leonard ventured to the brink of the pit. But eventhis precaution could not counteract the horrible effluvia arising fromit. It was more than half filled with dead bodies; and through theputrid and heaving mass many disjointed limbs and ghastly faces could bediscerned, the long hair of women and the tiny arms of childrenappearing on the surface. It was a horrible sight--so horrible, that itpossessed a fascination peculiar to itself, and, in spite of hisloathing, Leonard lingered to gaze at it. Strange and fantastic thoughtspossessed him. He fancied that the legs and arms moved--that the eyes ofsome of the corpses opened and glared at him--and that the whole rottingmass was endowed with animation. So appalled was he by this idea that heturned away, and at that moment beheld a vehicle approaching. It was thedead-cart, charged with a heavy load to increase the already redundantheap. 

The same inexplicable and irresistible feelings of curiosity thatinduced Leonard to continue gazing upon the loathly objects in the pit, now prompted him to stay and see what would ensue. Two persons were withthe cart, and one of them, to Leonard's infinite surprise and disgust, proved to be Chowles. He had no time, however, for the expression of anysentiment, for the cart halted at a little distance from him, when itsconductors, turning it round, backed it towards the edge of the pit. Thehorse was then taken out, and Chowles calling to Leonard, the latterinvoluntarily knelt down to guide its descent, while the otherassistant, who had proceeded to the further side of the chasm, threw thelight of a lantern full upon the grisly load, which was thus shot intothe gulf below. 

Shovelling a sufficient quantity of earth and lime into the pit to coverthe bodies, Chowles and his companion departed, leaving Leonard alone. He continued there a few moments longer, and was about to follow them, when a prolonged and piercing cry smote his ear; and, looking in thedirection of the sound, he perceived a figure running with greatswiftness towards the pit. As no pursuers appeared, Leonard couldscarcely doubt that this was one of the distracted persons he had heardof, who, in the frenzy produced by the intolerable anguish of theirsores, would often rush to the plague-pit and bury themselves, and hetherefore resolved, if possible, to prevent the fatal attempt. Accordingly, he placed himself in the way of the runner, andendeavoured, with outstretched arms, to stop him. But the latter dashedhim aside with great violence, and hurrying to the brink of the pit, uttered a fearful cry, and exclaiming, "She is here! she is here!--Ishall find her amongst them!"--flung himself into the abyss. 

As soon as he could shake off the horror inspired by this dreadfulaction, Leonard ran to the pit, and, gazing into it, beheld him by theimperfect light struggling in the horrible mass in which he waspartially immersed. The frenzied man had now, however, begun to repenthis rashness, and cried out for aid. But this Leonard found itimpossible to afford him; and, seeing he must speedily perish if left tohimself, he ran after the dead-cart, and overtaking it just as itreached Moor-gate, informed Chowles what had happened, and begged him toreturn. 

"There will be no use in helping him out, " rejoined Chowles, in a toneof indifference. "We shall have to take him back in a couple of hours. No, no--let him remain where he is. There is scarcely a night that somecrazy being does not destroy himself in the same way. We never concernourselves about such persons except to strip them of their apparel. "

"Unfeeling wretch!" cried Leonard, unable to restrain his indignation. "Give me your fork, and I will pull him out myself. "

Instead of surrendering the implement, Chowles flourished it over hishead with the intention of striking the apprentice, but the latternimbly avoided the blow, and snatching it from his grasp, ran back tothe plague-pit. He was followed by Chowles and the burier, whothreatened him with loud oaths. Regardless of their menaces, Leonardfixed the hook in the dress of the struggling man, and exerting all hisstrength, drew him out of the abyss. He had just lodged him in safety onthe brink when Chowles and his companion came up. 

"Keep off!" cried Leonard, brandishing his fork as he spoke; "you shallneither commit robbery nor murder here. If you will assist thisunfortunate gentleman, I have no doubt you will be well rewarded. Ifnot, get hence, or advance at your peril. "

"Well, " returned Chowles, who began to fancy something might be made ofthe matter, "if you think we should be rewarded, we would convey thegentleman back to his own home provided we can ascertain where it is. But I am afraid he may die on the way. "

"In that case you can apply to his friends, " rejoined Leonard. "He mustnot be abandoned thus. "

"First, let us know who he is, " returned Chowles. "Is he able to speak?"

"I know not, " answered Leonard. "Bring the lantern this way, and let usexamine his countenance. "

Chowles complied, and held the light over the unfortunate person. Hisattire was rich, but in great disorder, and sullied by the loathsomemass in which he had been plunged. He was in the flower of youth, andhis features must have been remarkable for their grace and beauty, butthey were now of a livid hue, and swollen and distorted by pain. StillLeonard recognised them. 

"Gracious Heaven!" he exclaimed. "It is Sir Paul Parravicin. "

"Sir Paul Parravicin!" echoed Chowles. "By all that's wonderful, so itis! Here is a lucky chance! Bring the dead-cart hither, Jonas--quick, quick! I shall put him under the care of Judith Malmayns. "

And the burier hurried off as fast as his legs could carry him. 

"Had I known who it was, " exclaimed Leonard, gazing with abhorrence atthe miserable object before him, "I would have left him to die the deathhe so richly merits!"

A deep groan broke from the sufferer. 

"Have no fear, Sir Paul, " said Chowles. "You are in good hands. Everycare shall be taken of you, and you shall be cured by Judith Malmayns. "

"She shall not come near me, " rejoined Parravicin, faintly. "You willtake care of me?" he added in an imploring tone, to Leonard. 

"You appeal in vain to me, " rejoined the apprentice, sternly. "You arejustly punished for your treatment of Nizza Macascree. "

"I am--I am, " groaned Parravicin, "but she will be speedily avenged. Ishall soon join her in that pit. "

"She is not there, " replied Leonard, bitterly, "She is fast recoveringfrom the plague. "

"Is she not dead?" demanded Parravicin, with frightful eagerness. "I wastold she was thrown into that horrible chasm. "

"You were deceived, " replied Leonard. "She was taken to the pest-houseby your orders, and would have perished if she had not found a friend toaid her. She is now out of danger. "

"Then I no longer desire to die, " cried Parravicin, desperately. "I willlive--live. "

"Do not delude yourself, " replied Leonard, coldly; "you have littlechance of recovery, and should employ the short time left you in prayingto Heaven for forgiveness of your sins. "

"Tush!" exclaimed Parravicin, fiercely, "I shall not weary Heaven withineffectual supplications. I well know I am past all forgiveness. No, "he added, with a fearful imprecation, "since Nizza is alive, I will notdie. "

"Right, Sir Paul, right, " rejoined Chowles; "put a bold face on it, andI will answer for it you will get over the attack. Have no fear ofJudith Malmayns, " he added, in a significant tone. "However she maytreat others, she will cure _you_. "

"I will make it worth her while to do so, " rejoined Parravicin. 

"Here is the cart, " cried Chowles, seeing the vehicle approach. "I willtake you in the first place to Saint Paul's. Judith must see you as soonas possible. "

"Take me where you please, " rejoined Parravicin, faintly; "and rememberwhat I have said. If I die, the nurse will get nothing--if I am cured, she shall be proportionately rewarded. "

"I will not forget it, " replied Chowles. And with the help of Jonas heplaced the knight carefully in the cart. "You need not trouble yourselffurther about him, " he added to Leonard. 

"Before be quits this place I must know who he is, " rejoined the latter, placing himself at the horse's head. 

"You know his name as well as I do, " replied Chowles. 

"Parravicin is not his real name, " rejoined Leonard. 

"Indeed!" exclaimed Chowles, "this is news to me. But no matter who heis, he is rich enough to pay well. So stand aside, and let us go. Wehave no time to waste in further parleying. "

"I will not move till my question is answered, " replied Leonard. 

"We will see to that, " said Jonas, approaching him behind, and dealinghim so severe a blow on the head that he stretched him senseless on theground? "Shall we throw him into the pit?" he added to Chowles. 

The latter hesitated for a moment, and then said, "No, no, it is notworth while. It may bring us into trouble. We have no time to lose. " Andthey then put the cart in motion, and took the way to Saint Paul's. 

On coming to himself, Leonard had some difficulty in recalling what hadhappened; and when the whole train of circumstances rushed upon hismind, he congratulated himself that he had escaped further injury. "WhenI think of the hands I have been placed in, " he murmured, "I cannot butbe grateful that they did not throw me into the pit, where no discoverycould have been made as to how I came to an end. But I will not resttill I have ascertained the name and rank of Nizza's persecutor. I haveno doubt they have taken him to Saint Paul's, and will proceed thitherat once. "

With this view, he hastened towards the nearest city gate, and passingtowards it, shaped his course towards the cathedral. It was a finestarlight night, and though there was no moon, the myriad lustresglowing in the deep and cloudless vault rendered every object plainlydistinguishable. At this hour, little restraint was placed upon thesick, and they wandered about the streets uttering dismal cries. Somewould fling themselves upon bulks or steps, where they were notunfrequently found the next morning bereft of life. Most of those notattacked by the distemper kept close house; but there were some fewreckless beings who passed the night in the wildest revelry, braving thefate awaiting them. As Leonard passed Saint Michael's church, inBasinghall-street, he perceived, to his great surprise, that it waslighted up, and at first supposed some service was going on within it, but on approaching he heard strains of lively and most irreverent musicissuing from within. Pushing open the door, he entered the sacrededifice, and found it occupied by a party of twenty young men, accompanied by a like number of females, some of whom were playing atdice and cards, some drinking, others singing Bacchanalian melodies, others dancing along the aisles to the notes of a theorbo and spinet. Leonard was so inexpressibly shocked by what he beheld, that unable tocontain himself he mounted the steps of the pulpit, and called to themin a loud voice to desist from their scandalous conduct, and no longerprofane the house of God. But they treated his remonstrances withlaughter and derision, and some of the party forming themselves into agroup round the pulpit, entreated him to preach to them. 

"We want a little variety, " said one of the group, a good-looking youngman, upon whom the wine had evidently made some impression--"we aretired of drinking and play, and may as well listen to a sermon, especially an original one. Hold forth to us, I say. "

"I would, hold forth till daybreak, if I thought it would produce anyimpression, " returned Leonard. "But I perceive you are too hardened tobe aroused to repentance. "

"Repentance!" cried another of the assemblage. "Do you know whom youaddress? These gentlemen are the Brotherhood of Saint Michael, and I amthe principal. We are determined to enjoy the few days or hours we mayhave left--that is all. We are not afraid of the future, and areresolved to make the most of the present. "

"Ay, ay, " cried the others, with a great shout of laughter, which, however, was interrupted by a cry of anguish from one of the party. 

"There is another person seized, " said the principal; "take him away, brothers. This is owing to listening to a sermon. Let us return to ourwine. "

"Will you not accept this awful warning?" cried Leonard. "You will allshare your companion's fate. "

"We anticipate nothing else, " returned the principal; "and are thereforeresolved to banish reflection. A week ago, the Brotherhood of SaintMichael consisted of forty persons. We are already diminished to halfthe number, but are not the less merry on that account. On the contrary, we are more jovial than ever. We have agreed that whoever shall beseized with the distemper, shall be instantly conveyed to thepest-house, so that the hilarity of the others shall not be interrupted. The poor fellow who has just been attacked has left behind him abeautiful mistress. She is yours if you choose to join us. "

"Ay, stop with us, " cried a young and very pretty woman, taking his handand drawing him towards the company who were dancing beneath the aisles. 

But Leonard disengaged himself, and hurried away amid the laughter andhootings of the assemblage. The streets, despite their desolateappearance, were preferable to the spot he had just quitted, and heseemed to breathe more freely when he got to a little distance from thepolluted fane. He had now entered Wood-street, but all was as still asdeath, and he paused to gaze up at his master's window, but there was noone at it. Many a lover, unable to behold the object of his affections, has in some measure satisfied the yearning of his heart by gazing at herdwelling, and feeling he was near her. Many a sad heart has been cheeredby beholding a light at a window, or a shadow on its closed curtains, and such would have been Leonard's feelings if he had not been depressedby the thought of Amabel's precarious state of health. 

While thus wrapt in mournful thought, he observed three figures slowlyapproaching from the further end of the street, and he instinctivelywithdrew into a doorway. He had reason to congratulate himself upon theprecaution, as, when the party drew nearer, he recognised, with a pangthat shot to his heart, the voice of Rochester. A moment's observationfrom his place of concealment showed him that the earl was accompaniedby Sir George Etherege and Pillichody. They paused within a shortdistance of him, and he could distinctly hear their conversation. 

"You have not yet told us why you brought us here my lord, " saidEtherege to Rochester, after the latter had gazed for a few moments insilence at the house. "Are you resolved to make another attempt to carryoff the girl--and failing in it, to give her up for ever!"

"You have guessed my purpose precisely, " returned Rochester. "DoctorHodges has informed a friend of mine that the pretty Amabel has falleninto a decline. The poor soul is, doubtless, pining for me; and it wouldbe the height of inhumanity to let her perish. "

Leonard ground his teeth-with suppressed rage. 

"Then you mean to make her Countess of Rochester, after all, " laughedEtherege. "I thought you had determined to carry off Mistress Mallett. "

"Old Bowley declares he will send me to the Tower if I do, " repliedRochester; "and though his threats would scarcely deter me from actingas I think proper, I have no inclination for marriage at present. What apity, Etherege, that one cannot in these affairs have the money oneself, and give the wife to one's friend. "

"That is easily accomplished, " replied Etherege, laughingly; "especiallywhere you have a friend so devoted as myself. But do you mean to carryoff Amabel to-night?"

"Ay, now we come to business, " interposed Pillichody. "Bolts andbarricadoes! your lordship has only to say the word, and I will breakinto the house, and bear her off for you. "

"Your former conduct is a good guarantee for your present success, truly, " returned Rochester, with a sneer. "No, no; I shall postpone mydesign for the present. I have ascertained, from the source whence Iobtained information of Amabel's illness, that she is to be removed intothe country. This will exactly suit my purpose, and put her completelyin my power. "

"Then nothing is to be done to-night?" said Pillichody, secretlycongratulating himself on his escape. "By my sword! I feel equal to themost desperate attempt. "

"Your courage and dexterity must be reserved for some more favourableoccasion, " replied Rochester. 

"If not to carry off the girl, I must again inquire why your lordshiphas come hither?" demanded Etherege. 

"To be frank with you, my sole motive was to gaze at the house thatcontains her, " replied Rochester, in a voice that bespoke his sincerity. "I have before told you that she has a strong hold upon my heart. I havenot seen her for some weeks, and during that time have endeavoured toobliterate her image by making love to a dozen others. But it will notdo. She still continues absolute mistress of my affections. I sometimesthink, if I can obtain her in no other way, I shall be rash enough tomarry her. "

"Pshaw! this must never be, " said Etherege. 

"Were I to lose her altogether, I should be inconsolable, " criedRochester. 

"As inconsolable as I am for the rich widow of Watling-street, who dieda fortnight ago of the plague, and left her wealth to her footman, "replied Pillichody, drawing forth his handkerchief and applying it tohis eyes--"oh! oh!"

"Silence, fool!" cried Rochester: "I am in no mood for buffoonery. Ifyou shed tears for any one, it should be for your master. "

"Truly, I am grieved for him, " replied Pillichody; "but I object to theterm 'master. ' Sir Paul Parravicin, as he chooses to be called, is mypatron, not my master. He permits me a very close familiarity, not tosay friendship. "

"Well, then, your patron, " rejoined Rochester, scornfully. "How is hegoing on to-night?"

"I feared to tell your lordship, " replied Pillichody, "lest it shouldspoil your mirth; but he broke out of his chamber a few hours ago, andhas not been discovered since. Most likely, he will be found in theplague-pit or the Thames in the morning, for he was in such aninfuriated state, that it is the opinion of his attendants he wouldcertainly destroy himself. You know he was attacked two days after NizzaMacascree was seized by the pestilence, and his brain has been runningupon the poor girl ever since. "

"Alas!" exclaimed Rochester, "it is a sad end. I am wearied of thisinfected city, and shall be heartily glad to quit it. A few months inthe country with Amabel will be enchanting. "

"_Apropos_ of melancholy subjects, " said Etherege, "your masque of theDance of Death has caused great consternation at court. Mistress Stewartdeclares she cannot get that strange fellow who performed such fantastictricks in the skeleton-dance out of her head. "

"You mean Chowles, " replied the earl. "He is a singular being, certainly--once a coffin-maker, and now, I believe, a burier of thedead. He takes up his abode in a crypt of Saint Faith's and leads anincomprehensible life. As we return we shall pass the cathedral, and cansee whether he is astir. "

"Readily, " replied Etherege. "Do you desire to tarry here longer, orshall we proceed before you, while you indulge your tender meditationsundisturbed?"

"Leave me, " replied Rochester; "I shall be glad to be alone for a fewmoments. "

Etherege and Pillichody then proceeded slowly towards Cheapside, whilethe earl remained with his arms folded upon his breast, and his gazefixed upon the house. Leonard watched him with intense curiosity, andhad great difficulty in controlling himself. Though the earl was armed, while he had only his staff, he could have easily mastered him byassailing him unawares. But Leonard's generous nature revolted at theunworthy suggestion, and he resolved, if he attacked him at all, to givehim time to stand upon his guard. A moment's reflection, however, satisfied him that his wisest course would be to remain concealed. Hewas now in possession of the earl's plan, and, with the help of DoctorHodges, could easily defeat it; whereas if he appeared, it would beevident that he had overheard what had passed, and some other scheme, towhich he could not be privy, would be necessarily adopted. Influenced bythis consideration, he suffered the earl to depart unmolested, and whenhe had got to some distance followed him. Rochester's companions werewaiting for him in Cheapside, and, joining them, they all threeproceeded towards the cathedral. They entered the great northern door;and Leonard, who was now well acquainted with all the approaches, passedthrough the door at the north side of the choir, to which he had beendirected on a former occasion by Solomon Eagle. He found the partyguided by the old verger--the only one of its former keepers who stilllingered about the place--and preparing to descend to Saint Faith's. Leonard followed as near as he could without exposing himself, and, ongaining the subterranean church, easily contrived to screen himselfbehind the ponderous ranks of pillars. 

By this time they had reached the door of the charnel It was closed; butRochester knocked against it, and Chowles presently appeared. He seemedgreatly surprised at seeing the earl, nor was the latter less astonishedwhen he learnt that Parravicin was within the vault. He desired to beshown to his friend, and Chowles ushered him into the crypt. Leonardwould have followed them; but as Etherege and the others declinedentering the charnel, and remained at the door, he could not do so. 

Shortly after this the sick man was brought out, stretched upon apallet, borne by Chowles and Judith; and the party proceeded slowly, andoccasionally relieving each other, to the great western entrance, wherea coach being procured by Pillichody, Parravicin was placed within it, with Judith and Chowles; and orders being given in an under-tone to thedriver, he departed. The others then proceeded towards Ludgate, whileLeonard, again disappointed, retraced his steps to Wood-street. 

 * * * * *

V. 

HOW SAINT PATHOS WAS USED AS A PEST-HOUSE. 

The distemper had by this time increased to such a frightful extent, that the pest-houses being found wholly inadequate to contain the numberof sick persons sent to them, it was resolved by the civic authorities, who had obtained the sanction of the Dean and Chapter of Saint Paul'sfor that purpose, to convert the cathedral into a receptacle for theinfected. Accordingly, a meeting was held in the Convocation House tomake final arrangements. It was attended by Sir John Lawrence, the LordMayor; by Sir George Waterman, and Sir Charles Doe, sheriffs; by DoctorSheldon, Archbishop of Canterbury; by the Duke of Albemarle, the Earl ofCraven, and, a few other zealous and humane persons. Several members ofthe College of Physicians were likewise present, and, amongst others, Doctor Hodges; and the expediency of the measure being fully agreedupon, it was determined to carry it into immediate execution. 

The cloisters surrounding the Convocation House were crowded with sickpersons, drawn thither by the rumour of what was going forward; and whenthe meeting adjourned to the cathedral, these unfortunate beingsfollowed them, and were with some difficulty kept aloof from theuninfected by the attendants. A very earnest and touching address wasnext pronounced by the archbishop. Calling upon his hearers to look uponthemselves as already dead to the world, --to regard the presentvisitation as a just punishment of their sins, and to rejoice that theirsufferings would be so soon terminated, when, if they sincerely andheartily repented, they would at once be transported from the depths ofwretchedness and misery to regions of unfading bliss; he concluded bystating that he, and all those around him, were prepared to devotethemselves, without regard to their own safety, to the preservation oftheir fellow-citizens, and that they would leave nothing undone to stopthe ravages of the devouring scourge. 

It chanced that Leonard Holt was present on this occasion, and as helistened to the eloquent discourse of the archbishop, and gazed at thegroup around him, all equally zealous in the good cause, and equallyregardless of themselves, he could not but indulge a hope that theirexertions might be crowned with success. It was indeed a touching sightto see the melancholy congregation to whom his address wasdelivered--many, nay most of whom were on the verge of dissolution;--andLeonard Holt was so moved by the almost apostolic fervour of theprelate, that, but for the thought of Amabel, he might have followed theexample of several of the auditors, and devoted himself altogether tothe service of the sick. 

His discourse concluded, the archbishop and most of his companionsquitted the cathedral. Hodges, however, and three of the physicians, remained behind to superintend the necessary preparations. Shortlyafter, a large number of pallets were brought in, and ranged along thenave and aisles at short distances from each other; and, before night, the interior of the structure presented the complete appearance of anhospital. Acting under the directions of Doctor Hodges, Leonard Holtlent his assistance in arranging the pallets, in covering them withbedding and blankets, and in executing any other service required ofhim. A sufficient number of chirurgeons and nurses were then sent for, and such was the expedition used, that on that very night most of thepallets were occupied. Thus the cathedral underwent another afflictingchange. A blight had come over it, mildewing its holy walls, andtainting and polluting its altars. Its aisles, once trodden by grave andreverend ecclesiastics, and subsequently haunted by rufflers, bullies, and other worthless characters, were now filled with miserable wretches, stricken with a loathsome and fatal distemper. Its chapels and shrinesformerly adorned with rich sculptures and costly ornaments, but strippedof them at times when they were looked upon as idolatrous and profane, were now occupied by nurses, chirurgeons, and their attendants; whileevery niche and corner was filled with surgical implements, phials, drugs, poultices, foul rags, and linen. 

In less than a week after it had been converted into a pest-house, thecathedral was crowded to overflowing. Upwards of three hundred palletswere set up in the nave, in the aisles, in the transepts, and in thechoir, and even in the chapels. But these proving insufficient, manypoor wretches who were brought thither were placed on the cold flags, and protected only by a single blanket. At night the scene was reallyterrific. The imperfect light borne by the attendants fell on thecouches, and revealed the livid countenances of their occupants; whilethe vaulted roof rang with shrieks and groans so horrible andheart-piercing as to be scarcely endured, except by those whose nerveswere firmly strung, or had become blunted by their constant recurrence. At such times, too, some unhappy creature, frenzied by agony, wouldburst from his couch, and rend the air with his cries, until overtakenand overpowered by his attendants. On one occasion, it happened that apoor wretch, who had been thus caught, broke loose a second time, anddarting through a door leading to the stone staircase in the northerntransept gained the ambulatory, and being closely followed, to escapehis pursuers, sprang through one of the arched openings, and fallingfrom a height of near sixty feet, was dashed in pieces on the flaggedfloor beneath. 

A walk through this mighty lazar-house would have furnished a wholesomelesson to the most reckless observer. It seemed to contain all the sickof the city. And yet it was not so. Hundreds were expiring in their owndwellings, and the other pest-houses continued crowded as before. Still, as a far greater number of the infected were here congregated, and couldbe seen at one view, the picture was incomparably more impressive. Everypart of the cathedral was occupied. Those who could not find room insideit crouched beneath the columns of the portico on rugs or blankets, andimplored the chirurgeons as they passed to attend them. Want of roomalso drove others into Saint Faith's, and here the scene was, ifpossible, more hideous. In this dismal region it was found impossible toobtain a free circulation of air, and consequently the pestilentialeffluvia, unable to escape, acquired such malignancy, that it was almostcertain destruction to inhale it. After a time, few of the nurses andattendants would venture thither; and to take a patient to Saint Faith'swas considered tantamount to consigning him to the grave. 

Whether Judith Malmayns had succeeded or not in curing Sir PaulParravicin, it is not our present purpose to relate. Soon after thecathedral was converted into a lazar-house she returned thither, and, inspite of the opposition of Doctor Hodges, was appointed one of thenurses. It must not be supposed that her appointment was the result ofany ill design. Such was the difficulty of obtaining attendance, thatlittle choice was left, and the nurses being all of questionablecharacter, it was supposed she was only a shade worse than her fellows, while she was known to be active and courageous. And this was speedilyproved; for when Saint Faith's was deserted by the others, she remainedat her post, and quitted it neither night nor day. A large pit wasdigged in the open space at the north-east corner of the cathedral, andto this great numbers of bodies were nightly conveyed by Chowles andJonas. But it was soon filled, and they were compelled to resort, asbefore, to Finsbury Fields, and to another vast pit near Aldgate. Whennot engaged in this revolting employment, Chowles took up his quartersin the crypt, where, in spite of his propinquity to the sick, heindulged himself in his customary revelry. He and Judith had amassed, inone way or other, a vast quantity of spoil, and frequently planned howthey would spend it when the pestilence ceased. Their treasure wascarefully concealed in a cell in one of the secret passages with whichthey were acquainted, leading from Saint Faith's to the upper structure. 

One night, on his return from Finsbury Fields, as Chowles was seated inthe crypt, with a pipe in his mouth, and a half-finished flask of winebefore him, he was startled by the sudden entrance of Judith, who, rushing up to him, seized him by the throat, and almost choked himbefore he could extricate himself. 

"What is the matter?--would you strangle me, you murderous harridan?" hecried. 

"Ay, that I would, " replied Judith, preparing to renew the attack. 

"Stand off!" rejoined Chowles, springing back, and snatching up a spade, "or I will dash out your brains. Are you mad?" he continued, gazingfearfully at her. 

"I am angry enough to make me so, " she replied, shaking her clenchedfists at him. "But I will be revenged--revenged, I tell you. "

"Revenged!" cried Chowles, in astonishment--"for what! What have Idone!"

"You do well to affect ignorance, " rejoined Judith, "but you cannotdeceive me. No one but you can have done it. "

"Done what!" exclaimed Chowles, in increased astonishment. "Has ourhoard been discovered?"

"Ay, and been carried off--by you--you!" screamed Judith, with a lookworthy of a fury. 

"By my soul, you are wrong, " cried Chowles. "I have never touchedit, --never even approached the hiding-place, except in your presence. "

"Liar!" returned Judith, "the whole hoard is gone;--the plunder Iobtained in Newgate, --the Earl of Rochester's plate, --all the rings, trinkets, and rich apparel I have picked up since, --everything isgone;--and who but you can be the robber?"

"It is difficult to say, " rejoined Chowles. "But I swear to you, yoususpect me wrongfully. "

"Restore it, " replied Judith, "or tell me where it is hidden. If not, Iwill be the death of you?"

"Let us go to the hiding-place, " replied Chowles, whose uneasiness wasnot diminished by the menace. "You may be mistaken, and I hope you are. "

Though he uttered the latter part of his speech with seeming confidence, his heart misgave him. To conceal his trepidation, he snatched up alamp, and passing through the secret door, hurried along the narrowstone passage. He was about to open the cell, when he perceived near itthe tall figure of the enthusiast. 

"There is the robber, " he cried to Judith. "I have found him. It isSolomon Eagle. Villain! you have purloined our hoard!"

"I have done so, " replied Solomon Eagle, "and I will carry off all otherspoil you may obtain. Think not to hide it from me. I can watch you whenyou see me not, and track you when you suppose me afar off. "

"Indeed!" exclaimed Chowles, trembling. "I begin to think he ispossessed of supernatural power, " he added, in an undertone to Judith. 

"Go on, " pursued Solomon Eagle, "continue to plunder and destroy. Pursueyour guilty career, and see what reward you will reap. "

"Restore what you have robbed us of, " cried Judith in a menacing tone, "or dread the consequences. "

"Woman, you threaten idly, " returned Solomon Eagle. "Your ill-gottentreasure is gone--whither, you will never know. Get hence!" he added, ina terrible tone, "or I will rid the earth of you both. "

So awed were they by his voice and gestures, that they slunk away with adiscomfited air, and returned to the crypt. 

"If we are always to be robbed in this manner, " observed Chowles, "wehad better shift our quarters, and practise elsewhere. "

"He shall not repeat the offence with impunity, " returned Judith. "Iwill speedily get rid of him. "

"Beware!" cried a voice, which they recognised as that of Solomon Eagle, though whence proceeding they could not precisely determine. The pairlooked at each other uneasily, but neither spoke a word. 

Meanwhile, Leonard Holt did not omit to pay a daily visit to thecathedral. It was a painful contemplation, and yet not without deepinterest, to behold the constant succession of patients, most of whomwere swept away by the scourge in the course of a couple of days, oreven in a shorter period. Out of every hundred persons attacked, fivedid not recover; and whether the virulence of the distemper increased, or the summer heats rendered its victims more easily assailable, certainit is they were carried off far more expeditiously than before. DoctorHodges was unremitting in his attentions, but his zeal and anxietyavailed nothing. He had to contend with a disease over which medicineexercised little control. 

One morning, as he was about to enter the cathedral, he met Leonardbeneath the portico, and as soon as the latter caught sight of him, hehurried towards him. 

"I have been in search of you, " he said, "and was about to proceed toyour residence. Mr. Bloundel wishes to see you immediately. Amabel isworse. "

"I will go with you at once, " replied the doctor. 

And they took the way to Wood-street. 

"From a few words let fall by my master, I imagine he intends sendingAmabel into the country to-morrow, " said Leonard, as they proceeded. 

"I hope so, " replied Hodges. "He has already delayed it too long. Youwill be glad to hear that Nizza Macascree is quite recovered. To-morrow, or the next day, she will be able to see you with safety. "

"Heaven knows where I may be to-morrow, " rejoined Leonard. "WhereverAmabel goes, I shall not be far off. "

"Faithful to the last!" exclaimed Hodges. "Well, I shall not oppose you. We must take care the Earl of Rochester does not get a hint of ourproceeding. At this time a chance meeting (were it nothing more) mightprove fatal to the object of our solicitude. "

Leonard said nothing, but the colour fled his cheek, and his lipsslightly quivered. In a few seconds more they reached the grocer'shouse. 

They found him at the window anxiously expecting them; and DoctorHodges, being drawn up in the same way as before, was conducted toAmabel's chamber. She was reclining in an easy-chair, with the Bible onher knee; and though she was much wasted away, she looked more lovelythan ever. A slight hectic flush increased the brilliancy of her eyes, which had now acquired that ominous lustre peculiar to persons in adecline. There were other distressing symptoms in her appearance whichthe skilful physician well knew how to interpret. To an inexperiencedeye, however, she would have appeared charming. Nothing could exceed thedelicacy of her complexion, or the lovely mould of her features, which, though they had lost much of their fulness and roundness, had gained inexpression; while the pencilled brows clearly traced upon her snowyforehead, the long dark eyelashes shading her cheek, and the rich satintresses drooping over her shoulders, completed her attractions. Hermother stood by her side, and not far from her sat little Christiana, amusing herself with some childish toy, and ever and anon stealing ananxious glance at her sister. Taking Amabel's arm, and sighing tohimself to think how thin it was, the doctor placed his finger upon herpulse. Whatever might be his secret opinion, he thought fit to assume ahopeful manner, and looking smilingly at her, said, "You are better thanI expected, but your departure to the country must not be deferred. "

"Since it is my father's wish that I should do so, " replied Amabel, gently, "I am quite willing to comply. But I feel it will be of noavail, and I would rather pass the rest of my life here than withstrangers. I cannot be happier than I am now. "

"Perhaps not, " replied Hodges; "but a few weeks spent in some salubriousspot will remove all apprehensions as to your health. You will find yourstrength return, and with it the desire of life. "

"My life is in the hands of my Maker, " replied Amabel, "and I am readyto resign it whenever it shall be required of me. At the same time, however anxious I may be to quit a world which appears a blank to me, Iwould make every effort, for the sake of those whose happiness is dearerto me than my own, to purchase a complete restoration to health. If myfather desires me to try a removal to the country, and you think it willhave a beneficial effect, I am ready to go. But do not urge it, unlessyou think there is a chance of my recovery. "

"I will tell you frankly, " replied the doctor, "if you remain here, youhave not many weeks to live. "

"But if I go, will you promise me health?" rejoined Amabel. "Do notdeceive me. Is there a hope?"

"Unquestionably, " replied the doctor. "Change of air will work wonders. "

"I beseech you not to hesitate--for my sake do not, dearest daughter, "said Mrs. Bloundel, with difficulty repressing tears. 

"And for mine, " added her father, more firmly, yet with deep emotion. 

"I have already expressed my readiness to accede to your wishes, "replied Amabel. "Whenever you have made arrangements for me, I will setout. "

"And now comes the question--where is she to go?" remarked Hodges. 

"I have a sister, who lives as housekeeper at Lord Craven's seat, Ashdown Park, " replied Mr. Bloundel. "She shall go thither, and her auntwill take every care of her. The mansion is situated amid the Berkshirehills, and the air is the purest and best in England. "

"Nothing can be better, " replied Hodges; "but who is to escort herthither?"

"Leonard Holt, " replied Mr. Bloundel. "He will gladly undertake theoffice. "

"No doubt, " rejoined Hodges; "but cannot you go yourself?"

"Impossible!" returned the grocer, a shade passing over his countenance. 

"Neither do I wish it, " observed Amabel. "I am content to be under thesafeguard of Leonard. "

"Amabel, " said her father, "you know not what I shall endure in thusparting with you. I would give all I possess to be able to accompanyyou, but a sense of duty restrains me. I have taken the resolution toremain here with my family during the continuance of the pestilence, andI must abide by it. I little thought how severely my constancy would betried. But hard though it be, I must submit I shall commit you, therefore, to the care of an all-merciful Providence, who will not failto watch over and protect you. "

"Have no fear for me, father, " replied Amabel; "and do not weep, dearmother, " she added to Mrs. Bloundel, who, unable to restrain her grief, was now drowned in tears; "I shall be well cared for. If we meet no morein this world, our reunion is certain in that to come. I have given youmuch pain and uneasiness, but it will be an additional grief to me if Ithink you feel further anxiety on my account. "

"We do not, my dear child, " replied Mr. Bloundel. "I am well assured allis for the best, and if it pleases Heaven to spare you, I shall rejoicebeyond measure in your return. If not, I shall feel a firm reliance thatyou will continue in the same happy frame, as at present, to the last, and that we shall meet above, where there will be no furtherseparation. "

"I cannot bear to part with her, " cried Mrs. Bloundel, clasping her armsround her daughter--"I cannot--I cannot!"

"Restrain yourself, Honora, " said her husband; "you will do her aninjury. "

"She must not be over excited, " interposed Hodges, in a low tone, andgently drawing the afflicted mother away. "The sooner, " he added to Mr. Bloundel, "she now sets out the better. "

"I feel it, " replied the grocer. "She shall start to-morrow morning. "

"I will undertake to procure horses, " replied Hodges, "and Leonard willbe ready at any moment. "

With this, he took his leave, and descending by the pulley, communicatedto Leonard what had occurred. 

In spite of his fears on her account, the prospect of again beholdingAmabel so transported the apprentice that he could scarcely attend towhat was said respecting her. When he grew calmer, it was arranged thatall should be in readiness at an early hour on the following morning;that a couple of horses should be provided; and that Amabel should belet down fully equipped for the journey. This settled, Leonard, at thedoctor's request, accompanied him to his residence. 

They were scarcely out of sight, when a man, who had been concealedbehind the hutch, in such a position that not a word that had passedescaped him, issued from his hiding-place, and darting down the firstalley on the right, made the best of his way to Whitehall. 

Up to this time, Doctor Hodges had not judged it prudent to allow ameeting between Leonard and Nizza Macascree, but now, from reasons ofhis own, he resolved no longer to delay it. Accordingly, on reaching hisdwelling, he took the apprentice to her chamber. She was standing in apensive attitude, near a window which looked towards the river, and asshe turned on his entrance, Leonard perceived that her eyes were filledwith tears. Blushing deeply, she advanced towards him, and greeted himwith all the warmth of her affectionate nature. She had quite recoveredher good looks, and Leonard could not but admit that, had he seen herbefore his heart was plighted to another, it must have been given toher. Comparisons are ungracious, and tastes differ more perhaps as tobeauty than on any other point; but if Amabel and the piper's daughterhad been placed together, it would not have been difficult to determineto which of the two the palm of superior loveliness should be assigned. There was a witchery in the magnificent black eyes of the latter--in herexquisitely-formed mouth and pearly teeth--in her clear nut-browncomplexion--in her dusky and luxuriant tresses, and in her light elasticfigure, with which more perfect but less piquant charms could notcompete. Such seemed to be the opinion of Doctor Hodges, for as he gazedat her with unaffected admiration, he exclaimed, as if to himself--"I'faith, if I had to choose between the two, I know which it would be. "

This exclamation somewhat disconcerted the parties to whom it referred, and the doctor did not relieve their embarrassment by adding, "Well, Iperceive I am in the way. You must have much to say to each other thatcan in nowise interest me. Excuse me a moment, while I see that thehorses are ordered. "

So saying, and disregarding Leonard's expostulating looks, he hurriedout of the room, and shut the door after him. 

Hitherto, the conversation had been unrestrained and agreeable on bothsides, but now they were left alone together, neither appeared able toutter a word. Nizza cast her eyes timidly on the ground, while Leonardcaressed little Bell, who had been vainly endeavouring by her gamesometricks to win his attention. 

"Doctor Hodges spoke of ordering horses, " said Nizza, at length breakingsilence. "Are you going on a journey?"

"I am about to take Amabel to Ashdown Park, in Berkshire, to-morrowmorning, " replied Leonard. "She is dangerously ill. "

"Of the plague?" asked Nizza, anxiously. 

"Of a yet worse disorder, " replied Leonard, heaving a deep sigh--"of abroken heart. "

"Alas! I pity her from my soul!" replied Nizza, in a tone of the deepestcommiseration. "Does her mother go with her?"

"No, " replied Leonard, "I alone shall attend her. She will be placedunder the care of a near female relative at Ashdown. "

"Would it not be better, --would it not be safer, if she is in theprecarious state you describe, that some one of her own sex shouldaccompany her?" said Nizza. 

"I should greatly prefer it, " rejoined Leonard, "and so I am sure wouldAmabel. But where is such a person to be found?"

"I will go with you, if you desire it, " replied Nizza, "and will watchover her, and tend her as a sister. "

"Are you equal to the journey?" inquired Leonard, somewhat doubtfully. 

"Fully, " replied Nizza. "I am entirely recovered, and able to undergofar more fatigues than an invalid like Amabel. "

"It will relieve me from a world of anxiety if this can beaccomplished, " rejoined Leonard. "I will consult Doctor Hodges on thesubject on his return. "

"What do you desire to consult me about?" cried the physician, who hadentered the room unobserved at this juncture. 

The apprentice stated Nizza's proposal to him. 

"I entirely approve of the plan, " observed the doctor; "it will obviatemany difficulties. I have just received a message from Mr. Bloundel, byDallison, the porter, to say he intends sending Blaize with you. I willtherefore provide pillions for the horses, so that the whole party canbe accommodated. "

He then sat down and wrote out minute instructions for Amabel'streatment, and delivering the paper to Leonard, desired him to give itto the housekeeper at Ashdown Park. 

"Heaven only knows what the result of all this may be!" he exclaimed. "But nothing must be neglected. "

Leonard promised that his advice should be scrupulously attended to; andthe discourse then turning to Nizza's father, she expressed the utmostanxiety to see him before she set out. 

Hodges readily assented. "Your father has been discharged as cured fromthe pest-house, " he said, "and is lodged at a cottage, kept by my oldnurse, Dame Lucas, just without the walls, near Moorgate. I will sendfor him. "

"On no account, " replied Nizza. "I will go to him myself. "

"As you please, " returned Hodges. "Leonard shall accompany you. You willeasily find the cottage. It is about two hundred yards beyond the gate, on the right, near the old doghouses. "

"I know the spot perfectly, " rejoined Leonard. 

"I would recommend you to put on a mask, " observed the doctor to Nizza;"it may protect you from molestation. I will find you one below. "

Leading the way to a lower room, he opened a drawer, and, producing asmall loo mask, gave it her. The youthful pair then quitted the house, Nizza taking Bell under her arm, as she intended leaving her with herfather. The necessity of the doctor's caution was speedily manifested, for as they crossed Saint Paul's churchyard they encountered Pillichody, who, glancing inquisitively at Nizza, seemed disposed to push hisinquiries further by attempting to take off her mask; but the fiercelook of the apprentice, who grasped his staff in a menacing manner, induced him to abandon his purpose. He, however, followed them alongCheapside, and would have continued the pursuit along the Old Jewry, ifLeonard had not come to a halt, and awaited his approach. He then tookto his heels, and did not again make his appearance. 

As they reached the open fields and slackened their pace, Leonard deemedit prudent to prepare his companion for her interview with her father bymentioning the circumstance of the packet, and the important secretwhich he had stated he had to disclose to her. 

"I cannot tell what the secret can relate to, unless it is to mymother, " rejoined Nizza. "She died, I believe, when I was an infant. Atall events, I never remember seeing her, and I have remarked that myfather is averse to talking about her. But I will now question him. Ihave reason to think this piece of gold, " and she produced the amulet, "is in some way or other connected with the mystery. "

And she then explained to Leonard all that had occurred in the vaultwhen the coin had been shown to Judith Malmayns, describing the nurse'ssingular look and her father's subsequent anger. 

By this time, they had entered a narrow footpath leading across thefields in the direction of a little nest of cottages, and pursuing it, they came to a garden-gate. Opening it, they beheld the piper seatedbeneath a little porch covered with eglantine and roses. He was playinga few notes on his pipe, but stopped on hearing their approach. Bell, who had been put to the ground by Nizza, ran barking gleefully towardshim. Uttering a joyful exclamation, the piper stretched out his arms, and the next moment enfolded his daughter in a strict embrace. Leonardremained at the gate till the first transports of their meeting wereover, and then advanced slowly towards them. 

"Whose footsteps are those?" inquired the piper. 

Nizza explained. 

"Ah, is it Leonard Holt?" exclaimed the piper, extending his hand to theapprentice. "You are heartily welcome, " he added; "and I am glad to findyou with Nizza. It is no secret to me that she likes you. She has beenan excellent daughter, and will make an excellent wife. He who weds herwill obtain a greater treasure than he expects. "

"Not than he expects, " said Leonard. 

"Ay, than he expects, " reiterated the piper. "You will one day find outthat I speak the truth. "

Leonard looked at Nizza, who was blushing deeply at her father's remark. She understood him. 

"Father, " she said, "I understand you have a secret of importance todisclose to me. I am about to make a long journey to-morrow, and may notreturn for some time. At this uncertain season, when those who part knownot that they shall meet again, nothing of this sort ought to bewithheld. "

"You cannot know it while I live, " replied the piper, "but I will takesuch precautions that, if anything happens to me, it shall be certainlyrevealed to you. "

"I am satisfied, " she rejoined, "and will only ask you one fartherquestion, and I beseech you to answer it. Does this amulet refer to thesecret?"

"It does, " replied her father, sullenly; "and now let the subject bedropped. "

He then led the way into the cottage. The good old dame who kept it, onlearning who they were, and that they were sent by Doctor Hodges, gavethem a hearty welcome, and placed refreshments before them. Leonardcommented upon the extreme neatness of the abode and its healthfulsituation, and expressed a hope that it might not be visited by theplague. 

"I trust it will not, " rejoined the old woman, shaking her head; "butwhen I hear the doleful bell at night--when I catch a glimpse of thefatal cart--or look towards yon dreadful place, " and she pointed in thedirection of the plague-pit, which lay only a few hundred yards to thewest of her habitation--"I am reminded that the scourge is not far off, and that it must needs reach me ere long. "

"Have no fear, Dame Lucas, " said the piper; "you see it has pleased amerciful Providence to spare the lives of myself, my child, and thisyoung man, and if you should be attacked, the same benificent Being maypreserve you in like manner. "

"The Lord's will be done!" rejoined Dame Lucas. "I know I shall be wellattended to by Doctor Hodges. I nursed him when he was an infant, and hehas been like a son to me. Bless his kind heart!" she exclaimed, hereyes filling with tears of gratitude, "there is not his like in London. "

"Always excepting my master, " observed Leonard, with a smile at herenthusiasm. 

"I except no one, " rejoined Dame Lucas. "A worthier man never lived, than Doctor Hodges. If I die of the plague, " she continued, "he haspromised not to let me be thrown into that horrible pit--ough!--but tobury me in my garden, beneath the old apple-tree. "

"And he will keep his word, dame, I am sure, " replied Leonard. "I wouldrecommend you, however, as the best antidote against the plague, to keepyourself constantly employed, and to indulge as few gloomy notions aspossible. "

"I am seldom melancholy, and still more seldom idle, " replied the gooddame. "But despondency will steal on me sometimes, especially when thedead-cart passes and I think what it contains. "

While the conversation was going forward, Nizza and the piper withdrewinto an inner room, where they remained closeted together for some time. On their re-appearance, Nizza said she was ready to depart, and takingan affectionate farewell of her father, and committing Bell to hischarge, she quitted the cottage with the apprentice. 

Evening was now advancing, and the sun was setting with the gorgeousnessalready described as peculiar to this fatal period. Filled with thepleasing melancholy inspired by the hour, they walked on in silence. They had not proceeded far, when they observed a man crossing the fieldwith a bundle in his arms. Suddenly, he staggered and fell. Seeing hedid not stir, and guessing what was the matter, Leonard ran towards himto offer him assistance. He found him lying in the grass with his lefthand fixed against his heart. He groaned heavily, and his features wereconvulsed with pain. Near him lay the body of a beautiful little girl, with long fair hair, and finely-formed features, though now disfiguredby purple blotches, proclaiming the disorder of which she had perished. She was apparently about ten years old, and was partially covered by alinen cloth. The man, whose features bore a marked resemblance to thoseof the child, was evidently from his attire above the middle rank. Hisframe was athletic, and as he was scarcely past the prime of life, theirresistible power of the disease, which could in one instant prostratestrength like his, was terribly attested. 

"Alas!" he cried, addressing the apprentice, "I was about to convey theremains of my poor child to the plague-pit. But I have been unable toaccomplish my purpose. I hoped she would have escaped the pollutingtouch of those loathly attendants on the dead-cart. "

"She _shall_ escape it, " replied Leonard; "if you wish it, I will carryher to the pit myself. "

"The blessing of a dying man rest on your head, " cried the sufferer;"your charitable action will not pass unrequited. "

With this, despite the agony he endured, he dragged himself to hischild, kissed her cold lips, smoothed her fair tresses, and covered thebody carefully with the cloth. He then delivered it to Leonard, whoreceived it tenderly, and calling to Nizza Macascree, who had witnessedthe scene at a little distance, and was deeply affected by it, to awaithis return, ran towards the plague-pit. Arrived there, he placed hislittle burden at the brink of the excavation, and, kneeling beside it, uttered a short prayer inspired by the occasion. He then tore hishandkerchief into strips, and tying them together, lowered the bodygently down. Throwing a little earth over it, he hastened to the sickman, and told him what he had done. A smile of satisfaction illuminedthe sufferer's countenance, and holding out his hand, on which avaluable ring glistened, he said, "Take it--it is but a poor reward forthe service you have rendered me;--nay, take it, " he added, seeing thatthe apprentice hesitated; "others will not be so scrupulous. "

Unable to gainsay the remark, Leonard took the ring from his finger andplaced it on his own. At this moment, the sick man's gaze fell uponNizza, who stood at a little distance from him. He started, and made aneffort to clear his vision. 

"Do my eyes deceive me?" he cried, "or is a female standing there?"

"You are not deceived, " replied Leonard. 

"Let her come near me, in Heaven's name!" cried the sick man, staring ather as if his eyes would start from their sockets. "Who are you?" hecontinued, as Nizza approached. 

"I am called Nizza Macascree, and am the daughter of a poor piper, " shereplied. 

"Ah!" exclaimed the sick man, with a look of deep disappointment. "Theresemblance is wonderful! And yet it cannot be. My brain is bewildered. "

"Whom does she resemble?" asked Leonard, eagerly. 

"One very dear to me, " replied the sick man, with an expression ofremorse and anguish, "one I would not think of now. " And he buried hisface in the grass. 

"Is there aught more I can do for you?" inquired Leonard, after a pause. 

"No, " replied the sick man; "I have done with the world. With thatchild, the last tie that bound me to it was snapped. I now only wish todie. "

"Do not give way thus, " replied Leonard; "a short time ago my conditionwas as apparently hopeless as your own, and you see I am now perfectlyrecovered. "

"You had something to live for--something to love, " groaned the sickman. "All I lived for, all I loved, are gone. "

"Be comforted, sir, " said Nizza, in a commiserating tone. "Muchhappiness may yet be in store for you. "

"That voice!" exclaimed the sick man, with a look denoting the approachof delirium. "It must be my Isabella. Oh! forgive me! sweet injuredsaint; forgive me!"

"Your presence evidently distresses him, " said Leonard. "Let us hastenfor assistance. Your name, sir?" he added, to the sick man. 

"Why should you seek to know it?" replied the other. "No tombstone willbe placed over the plague-pit. "

"Not a moment must be lost if you would save him, " cried Nizza. 

"You are right, " replied Leonard. "Let us fly to the nearestapothecary's. "

Accordingly, they set off at a quick pace towards Moorgate. Just as theyreached it, they heard the bell ring, and saw the dead-cart approaching. Shrinking back while it passed, they ran on till they came to anapothecary's shop, where Leonard, describing the state of the sick man, by his entreaties induced the master of the establishment and one of hisassistants to accompany him. Leaving Nizza in the shop, he then retracedhis steps with his companions. The sick man was lying where he had lefthim, but perfectly insensible. On searching his pockets, a purse ofmoney was found, but neither letter nor tablet to tell who he was. Leonard offered the purse to the apothecary, but the latter declined it, and desired his assistant, who had brought a barrow with him, to placethe sick man within it, and convey him to the pest-house. 

"He will be better cared for there than if I were to take charge ofhim, " he observed. "As to the money, you can return it if he recovers. If not, it of right belongs to you. "

Seeing that remonstrance would be useless, Leonard did not attempt it, and while the assistant wheeled away the sick man, he returned with theapothecary to his dwelling. Thanking him for his kindness, he thenhastened with Nizza Macascree to Great Knightrider-street. He related tothe doctor all that had occurred, and showed him the ring. Hodgeslistened to the recital with great attention, and at its close said, "This is a very singular affair, and excites my curiosity greatly. Iwill go to the pest-house and see the sick man to-morrow. And now wewill proceed to supper; and then you had better retire to rest, for youwill have to be astir before daybreak. All is in readiness for thejourney. "

The last night (for such she considered it) spent by Amabel in herfather's dwelling, was passed in the kindliest interchanges ofaffection. Mr. Bloundel had much ado to maintain his firmness, and everand anon, in spite of his efforts, his labouring bosom and falteringtones proclaimed the struggle within. He sat beside his daughter, withher thin fingers clasped in his, and spoke to her on every consolatorytopic that suggested itself. This discourse, however, insensibly took aserious turn, and the grocer became fully convinced that his daughterwas not merely reconciled to the early death that to all appearanceawaited her, but wishful for it. He found, too, to his inexpressiblegrief, that the sense of the Earl of Rochester's treachery, combinedwith her own indiscretion, and the consequences that might have attendedit, had sunk deep in her heart, and produced the present sad result. 

Mrs. Bloundel, it will scarcely be supposed, could support herself sowell as her husband, but when any paroxysm of grief approached sherushed out of the room, and gave vent to her affliction alone. All therest of the family were present, and were equally distressed. But whatmost strongly affected Amabel was a simple, natural remark of littleChristiana, who, fixing her tearful gaze on her, entreated her "to comeback soon. "

Weak as she was, Amabel took the child upon her knee, and said to her, "I am going a long journey, Christiana, and, perhaps may never comeback. But if you attend to what your father says to you, if you neveromit, morning and evening, to implore the blessing of Heaven, we shallmeet again. "

"I understand what you mean, sister, " said Christiana. "The place youare going to is the grave. "

"You have guessed rightly, Christiana, " rejoined Amabel, solemnly. "Donot forget my last words to you, and when you are grown into a woman, think upon the poor sister who loved you tenderly. "

"I shall always think of you, " said Christiana, clasping her arms roundher sister's neck. "Oh! I wish I could go to the grave instead of you!"

Amabel pressed her to her bosom, and in a broken voice murmured ablessing over her. 

Mr. Bloundel here thought it necessary to interfere, and, taking theweeping child in his arms, carried her into the adjoining apartment. 

Soon after this, the household were summoned to prayers, and as thegrocer poured forth an address to Heaven for the preservation of hisdaughter, all earnestly joined in the supplication. Their devotionsended, Amabel took leave of her brothers, and the parting might havebeen painfully prolonged but for the interposition of her father. Thelast and severest trial was at hand. She had now to part from hermother, from whom, except on the occasion of her flight with the Earl ofRochester, she had never yet been separated. She had now to part withher, in all probability, for ever. It was a heart-breaking reflection toboth. Knowing it would only renew their affliction, and perhaps unfitAmabel for the journey, Mr. Bloundel had prevailed upon his wife not tosee her in the morning. The moment had, therefore, arrived when theywere to bid each other farewell. The anguish displayed in his wife'scountenance was too much for the grocer, and he covered his face withhis hands. He heard her approach Amabel--he listened to their mutualsobs--to their last embrace. It was succeeded by a stifled cry, anduncovering his face at the sound, he sprang to his feet just in time toreceive his swooning wife in his arms. 

VI. 

THE DEPARTURE. 

It struck four by Saint Paul's as Doctor Hodges, accompanied by Leonardand Nizza Macascree, issued from his dwelling, and proceeded towardsWood-street. The party was followed by a man leading a couple of horses, equipped with pillions, and furnished with saddle-bags, partly filledwith the scanty luggage which the apprentice and the piper's daughtertook with them. A slight haze, indicative of the intense heat about tofollow, hung round the lower part of the cathedral, but its topmostpinnacles glittered in the beams of the newly-risen sun. As Leonardgazed at the central tower, he descried Solomon Eagle on its summit, andpointed him out to Hodges. Motioning the apprentice, in a manner thatcould not be misunderstood, to halt, the enthusiast vanished, and inanother moment appeared upon the roof, and descended to the battlements, overlooking the spot where the little party stood. This was at thenorthwest corner of the cathedral, at a short distance from the portico. The enthusiast had a small sack in his hand, and calling to NizzaMacascree to take it, flung it to the ground. The ringing sound which itmade on its fall proved that it contained gold or silver, while its sizeshowed that the amount must be considerable. Nizza looked at it inastonishment, but did not offer to touch it. 

"Take it!" thundered Solomon Eagle; "it is your dowry. " And perceivingshe hesitated to comply with the injunction, he shouted to Leonard. "Give it her. I have no use for gold. May it make you and her happy!"

"I know not where he can have obtained this money, " observed Hodges;"but I am sure in no unlawful manner, and I therefore counsel Nizza toaccept the boon. It may be of the greatest use to her at some futuretime. "

His scruples being thus overcome, Leonard took the sack, and placed itin one of the saddle-bags. 

"You can examine it at your leisure, " remarked Hodges to Nizza. "We haveno more time to lose. "

Solomon Eagle, meanwhile, expressed his satisfaction at the apprentice'scompliance by his gestures, and, waving his staff round his head, pointed towards the west of the city, as if inquiring whether that wasthe route they meant to take. Leonard nodded an affirmative; and, theenthusiast spreading out his arms and pronouncing an audible benedictionover them, they resumed their course. The streets were silent anddeserted, except by the watchmen stationed at the infected dwellings, and a few sick persons stretched on the steps of some of the betterhabitations. In order to avoid coming in contact with these miserablecreatures, the party, with the exception of Doctor Hodges, kept in themiddle of the road. Attracted by the piteous exclamations of thesufferers, Doctor Hodges, ever and anon, humanely paused to speak tothem; and he promised one poor woman, who was suckling an infant, tovisit her on his return. 

"I have no hopes of saving her, " he observed to Leonard, "but I maypreserve her child. There is an establishment in Aldgate for infantswhose mothers have died of the plague, where more than a hundred littlecreatures are suckled by she-goats, and it is wonderful how well theythrive under their nurses. If I can induce this poor woman to part withher child, I will send it thither. "

Just then, their attention was arrested by the sudden opening of acasement, and a middle-aged woman, wringing her hands, cried, with alook of unutterable anguish and despair--"Pray for us, good people! prayfor us!"

"We _do_ pray for you, my poor soul!" rejoined Hodges, "as well as forall who are similarly afflicted. What sick have you within?"

"There were ten yesterday, " replied the woman. "Two have died in thenight--my husband and my eldest son--and there are eight others whoserecovery is hopeless. Pray for us! As you hope to be spared yourselves, pray for us!" And, with a lamentable cry, she closed the casement. 

Familiarized as all who heard her were with spectacles of horror andtales of woe, they could not listen to this sad recital, nor look uponher distracted countenance, without the deepest commiseration. Othersights had previously affected them, but not in the same degree. Aroundthe little conduit standing in front of the Old Change, at the westernextremity of Cheapside, were three lazars laving their sores in thewater; while, in the short space between this spot and Wood-street, Leonard counted upwards of twenty doors marked with the fatal red cross, and bearing upon them the sad inscription, "Lord have mercy upon us!"

A few minutes' walking brought them to the grocer's habitation, and onreaching it, they found that Blaize had already descended. He wascapering about the street with joy at his restoration to freedom. 

"Mistress Amabel will make her appearance in a few minutes, " he said toLeonard. "Our master is with her, and is getting all ready for herdeparture. I have not come unprovided with medicine, " he added to DoctorHodges. "I have got a bottle of plague-water in one pocket, and a phialof vinegar in the other. Besides these, I have a small pot of Mayerne'selectuary in my bag, another of the grand antipestilential confection, and a fourth of the infallible antidote which I bought of the celebratedGreek physician, Doctor Constantine Rhodocanaceis, at his shop near theThree-Kings Inn, in Southampton-buildings. I dare say you have heard ofhim?"

"I _have_ heard of the quack, " replied Hodges. "His end was a justretribution for the tricks he practised on his dupes. In spite of hisinfallible antidote, he was carried off by the scourge. But what elsehave you got?"

"Only a few trifles, " replied Blaize, with a chap-fallen look. "Patiencehas made me a pomander-ball composed of angelica, rue, zedoary, camphor, wax, and laudanum, which I have hung round my neck with a string. Then Ihave got a good-sized box of rufuses, and have swallowed three of thempreparatory to the journey. "

"A proper precaution, " observed Hodges, with a smile. 

"This is not all, " replied Blaize. "By my mother's advice, I have eatentwenty leaves of rue, two roasted figs, and two pickled walnuts forbreakfast, washing them down with an ale posset, with pimpernel seethedin it. "

"Indeed!" exclaimed Hodges. "You must be in a pretty condition for ajourney. But how could you bear to part with your mother and Patience?"

"The parting from Patience _was_ heart-breaking, " replied Blaize, takingout his handkerchief, and applying it to his eyes. "We sat up half thenight together, and I felt so much overcome that I began to waver in myresolution of departing. I am glad I did not give way now, " he added, ina more sprightly tone. "Fresh air and bright sunshine are very differentthings from the close rooms in that dark house. "

"You must not forget that you were there free from the contagion, "rejoined Hodges; "while you are here exposed to its assaults. "

"True, " replied Blaize; "that makes a vast difference. I almost wish Iwas back again. "

"It is too late to think of returning, " said Hodges. "Mount your horse, and I will assist Nizza into the pillion. "

By the time that Blaize, who was but an indifferent horseman, had gotinto the saddle, and Nizza had taken her place behind him, the windowopened, and Mr. Bloundel appeared at it. 

Amabel had only retired to rest for a few hours during the night. Whenleft to herself in her chamber, she continued to pray till exhaustioncompelled her to seek some repose. Arising about two o'clock, sheemployed herself for more than an hour in further devotion, and thentook a last survey of every object in the room. She had occupied it fromher childhood; and as she opened drawer after drawer, and cupboard aftercupboard, and examined their contents, each article recalled somecircumstance connected with the past, and brought back a train oflong-forgotten emotions. While she was thus engaged, Patience tapped atthe door, and was instantly admitted. The tenderhearted kitchenmaidassisted her to dress, and to put together some few articles omitted tobe packed by her mother. During this employment she shed abundance oftears, and Amabel's efforts to console her only made matters worse. PoorPatience was forced at last to sit down, and indulge a hearty fit ofcrying, after which she felt considerably relieved. As soon as she wassufficiently recovered to be able to speak, she observed to Amabel, "Pardon what I am about to say to you, my dear young mistress, but Icannot help thinking that the real seat of your disease is in theheart. "

A slight blush overspread Amabel's pale features, but she made noanswer. 

"I see I am right, " continued Patience, "and indeed I have longsuspected it. Let me entreat you, therefore, dear young lady, not tosacrifice yourself. Only say the word, and I will find means of makingyour retreat known to the Earl of Rochester. Blaize is devoted to you, and will do anything you bid him. I cannot wonder you fret after sohandsome, so captivating a man as the earl, especially when you areworried to death to marry a common apprentice like Leonard Holt, who isnot fit to hold a candle to your noble admirer. Ah! we women can neverblind ourselves to the advantages of rank and appearance. We are toogood judges for that. I hope you will soon be restored to your lover, and that the happiness you will enjoy will make amends for all themisery you have endured. "

"Patience, " said Amabel, whose cheek, as the other spoke, had returnedto its original paleness--"Patience, " she said, gravely, but kindly, "Ihave suffered you to proceed too far without interruption, and mustcorrect the very serious error into which you have fallen. I am so farfrom pining for an interview with the Earl of Rochester, that nothing inthe world should induce me to see him again. I have loved him deeply, "she continued in a tremulous tone; "nay, I will not attempt to disguisethat I feel strongly towards him still, while I will also freely confessthat his conduct towards me has so preyed upon my spirits, that it hasimpaired, perhaps destroyed, my health. In spite of this, I cannotsufficiently rejoice that I have escaped the earl's snares--I cannot besufficiently thankful to the merciful Being who, while he has thoughtfit to chastise me, has preserved me from utter ruin. "

"Since you are of this mind, " returned Patience, in a tone ofincredulity, "you are more to be rejoiced with than pitied. But we arenot overheard, " she added, almost in a whisper, and glancing towards thedoor. "You may entirely confide in me. The time is arrived when you canescape to your lover. "

"No more of this, " rejoined Amabel, severely, "or I shall command you toleave the room. "

"This is nothing more than pique, " thought Patience. "We women are allhypocrites, even to ourselves. I will serve her whether she will or not. She _shall_ see the earl. I hope there is no harm in wishing you may behappy with Leonard Holt, " she added aloud. "_He_ will make you a capitalhusband. "

"That subject is equally disagreeable--equally painful to me, " saidAmabel. 

"I had better hold my tongue altogether, " rejoined Patience, somewhatpertly. "Whatever I say seems to be wrong. It won't prevent me fromdoing as I would be done by, " she added to herself. 

Amabel's preparations finished, she dismissed Patience, to whom she gavesome few slight remembrances, and was soon afterwards joined by herfather. They passed half an hour together, as on the former night, inserious and devout conversation, after which Mr. Bloundel left her for afew minutes to let down Blaize. On his return he tenderly embraced her, and led her into the passage. They had not advanced many steps when Mrs. Bloundel rushed forth to meet them. She was in her night-dress, andseemed overwhelmed with affliction. 

"How is this, Honora?" cried her husband, in a severe tone. "Youpromised me you would see Amabel no more. You will only distress her. "

"I could not let her go thus, " cried Mrs. Bloundel. "I was listening atmy chamber door to hear her depart, and when I caught the sound of herfootsteps, I could no longer control myself. " So saying, she rushed toher daughter, and clasped her in her arms. 

Affectionately returning her mother's embrace, Amabel gave her hand toher father, who conducted her to the little room overlooking the street. Nothing more, except a deep and passionate look, was exchanged betweenthem. Both repressed their emotion, and though the heart of each wasbursting, neither shed a tear. At that moment, and for the first time, they greatly resembled each other; and this was not surprising, forintense emotion, whether of grief or joy, will bring out lines in thefeatures that lie hidden at other times. Without a word, Mr. Bloundelbusied himself in arranging the pulley; and calling to those below toprepare for Amabel's descent, again embraced her, kissed her pale brow, and, placing her carefully in the basket, lowered her slowly to theground. She was received in safety by Leonard, who carried her in hisarms, and placed her on the pillion. The pulley was then drawn up, andher luggage lowered by Mr. Bloundel, and placed in the saddle-bags bythe apprentice. Every one saw the necessity of terminating this painfulscene. A kindly farewell was taken of Hodges. Amabel waved her hand toher father, when at this moment Patience appeared at the window, and, calling to Blaize, threw a little package tied in a handkerchief to him. Doctor Hodges took up the parcel, and gave it to the porter, who, untying the handkerchief, glanced at a note it enclosed, and, strikinghis horse with his stick, dashed off towards Cheapside. 

"Pursue him!" cried Amabel to Leonard; "he is flying to the Earl ofRochester. "

The intimation was sufficient for the apprentice. Urging his horse intoa quick pace, he came up with the fugitive, just as he had reachedCheapside. Blaize's mad career had been checked by Nizza Macascree, who, seizing the bridle, stopped the steed. Leonard, who was armed with aheavy riding-whip, applied it unsparingly to Blaize's shoulders. 

"Entreat him to hold his hand, dear, good Mistress Amabel, " cried theporter; "it was for your sake alone I made this rash attempt. Patiencetold me you were dying to see the Earl of Rochester, and made me promiseI would ride to Whitehall to acquaint his lordship whither you weregoing. Here is her letter which I was about to deliver. " And as hespoke, he handed her the note, which was tied with a piece ofpackthread, and directed in strange and almost illegible characters. 

"Do not hurt him more, " said Amabel; "he was not aware of the mischiefhe was about to commit. And learn from me, Blaize, that, so far fromdesiring to see the Earl of Rochester, all my anxiety is to avoid him. "

"If I had known that, " returned the porter, "I would not have stirred astep. But Patience assured me the contrary. "

By this time, Doctor Hodges had come up, and an explanation ensued. Itwas agreed, however, that it would be better not to alarm Mr. Bloundel, but to attribute the porter's sudden flight to mismanagement of hissteed. Accordingly, they returned to the residence of the grocer, whowas anxiously looking out for them; and after a brief delay, duringwhich the saddlebags were again examined and secured, they departed. Mr. Bloundel looked wistfully after his daughter, and she returned his gazeas long as her blinding eyes would permit her. So unwonted was the soundof horses' feet at this period, that many a melancholy face appeared atthe window to gaze at them as they rode by, and Nizza Macascreeshuddered as she witnessed the envious glances cast after them by thesepoor captives. As to Blaize, when they got into Cheapside, he was soterrified by the dismal evidences of the pestilence that met him atevery turn, that he could scarcely keep his seat, and it was not untilhe had drenched himself and his companion with vinegar, and stuffed hismouth with myrrh and zedoary, that he felt anything like composure. 

On approaching Newgate Market, they found it entirely deserted. Most ofthe stalls were removed, the shops closed, and the window-shuttersnailed up. It was never, in fact, used at all, except by a fewcountrymen and higglers, who ventured thither on certain days of theweek to sell fresh eggs, butter, poultry, and such commodities. Themanner of sale was this. The article disposed of was placed on a flag onone side of the market, near which stood a pump and a trough of water. The vendor then retired, while the purchaser approached, took thearticle, and put its price into the water, whence it was removed whensupposed to be sufficiently purified. 

As the party passed Grey Friars, the tramp of their horses was mistakenfor the dead-cart, and a door was suddenly opened and a corpse broughtforth. Leonard would have avoided the spectacle had it been possible, but they were now too close to Newgate, where they were detained for afew minutes at the gate, while their bills of health were examined andcountersigned by the officer stationed there. During this pause Leonardglanced at the grated windows of the prison, the debtors' side of whichfronted the street. But not a single face was to be seen. In fact, ashas already been stated, the prison was shut up. 

The gate was now opened to them, and descending Snow Hill they entered aregion completely devastated by the pestilence. So saddening was thesight, that Leonard involuntarily quickened his horse's pace, resolvedto get out of this forlorn district as speedily as possible. He was, however, stopped by an unexpected and fearful impediment. When within ashort distance of Holborn Bridge, he observed on the further side of ita large black vehicle, and, unable to make out what it was, though afearful suspicion crossed him, slackened his pace. A nearer approachshowed him that it was the pest-cart, filled with its charnel load. Thehorse was in the shafts, and was standing quite still. Rising in hisstirrups to obtain a better view, Leonard perceived that the driver waslying on the ground at a little distance from the cart, in an attitudethat proclaimed he had been suddenly seized by the pestilence, and hadprobably just expired. 

Not choosing to incur the risk of passing this contagious load, Leonardretraced his course as far as Holborn Conduit, then turning intoSeacole-lane, and making the best of his way to Fleet Bridge, crossedit, and entered the great thoroughfare with which it communicated. Hehad not proceeded far when he encountered a small party of the watch, towhom he showed his certificate, and recounted the fate of the driver ofthe dead-cart. At Temple Bar he was again obliged to exhibit hispassports; and while there detained, he observed three other horsemenriding towards them from the further end of Fleet-street. 

Though much alarmed by the sight, Leonard did not communicate hisapprehensions to his companions, but as soon as the guard allowed him topass, called out to Blaize to follow him, and urging his horse to aquick pace, dashed up Drury-lane. A few minutes' hard riding, duringwhich nothing occurred to give the apprentice further uneasiness, brought them to a road skirting the open fields, in which a pest-househad just been built by the chivalrous nobleman whose habitation inBerkshire they were about to visit. With a courage and devotion thatredound more to his honour than the brilliant qualities that won him sohigh a reputation in the court and in the field, Lord Craven not merelyprovided the present receptacle for the sick, but remained in Londonduring the whole continuance of the dreadful visitation; "braving, " saysPennant, "the fury of the pestilence with the same coolness that hefought the battles of his beloved mistress, Elizabeth, titular Queen ofBohemia, or mounted the tremendous breach of Creutznach. " The spot wherethis asylum was built, and which is the present site of Golden-square, retained nearly half a century afterwards, the name of the Pest-houseFields. Leonard had already been made acquainted by Doctor Hodges withthe earl's generous devotion to the public welfare, and warmlycommenting upon it, he pointed out the structure to Amabel. But thespeed at which she was borne along did not allow her time to bestow morethan a hasty glance at it. On gaining Hyde-park Corner, the apprenticecast a look backwards, and his apprehensions were revived by perceivingthe three horsemen again in view, and evidently using their utmostexertions to come up with them. 

While Leonard was hesitating whether he should make known their dangerto Amabel, he perceived Solomon Eagle dart from behind a wall on theleft of the road, and plant himself in the direct course of theirpursuers, and he involuntarily drew in the rein to see what would ensue. In another moment, the horsemen, who were advancing at full gallop, andwhom Leonard now recognised as the Earl of Rochester, Pillichody, andSir Paul Parravicin, had approached within a few yards of theenthusiast, and threatened to ride over him if he did not get of theway. Seeing, however, that he did not offer to move, they opened oneither side of him, and were passing swiftly by, when, with infinitedexterity, he caught hold of the bridle of Rochester's steed, andchecking him, seized the earl by the leg, and threw him to the ground. 

Sir Paul Parravicin pulled up as soon as he could, and, drawing hissword, rode back to assist his friend, and punish the aggressor; but theenthusiast, nothing daunted, met him in full career, and suddenlylifting up his arms, uttered a loud cry, which so startled the knight'shigh-spirited horse, that it reared and flung him. All this was the workof a few seconds. Pillichody had been borne forward by the impetuosityof his steed to within a short distance of the apprentice, and seeingthe fate of his companions, and not liking Leonard's menacing gestures, he chipped spurs into his horse, and rode up Park-lane. 

Overjoyed at his unexpected deliverance, Leonard, whose attention hadbeen completely engrossed by what was passing, now ventured to look atAmabel, and became greatly alarmed at her appearance. She was as pale asdeath, except a small scarlet patch on either cheek, which contrastedpowerfully with the death-like hue of the rest of her countenance. Herhands convulsively clasped the back of the pillion; her lips wereslightly apart, and her eyes fixed upon the prostrate form of the Earlof Rochester. On finding they were pursued, and by whom, her firstimpulse had been to fling herself from the pillion, and to seek safetyby flight; but controlling herself, she awaited the result with forcedcomposure, and was now sinking from the exhaustion of the effort. 

"Thank Heaven! we are safe, " cried the apprentice; "but I fear the shockhas been too much for you. "

"It has, " gasped Amabel, falling against his shoulder. "Let us fly--oh!let us fly. "

Inexpressibly shocked and alarmed, Leonard twined his left arm round herwaist so as to hold her on the steed, for she was utterly unable tosupport herself, and glancing anxiously at Nizza Macascree, struck offon the right into the road skirting the Park, and in the direction ofTyburn, where there was a small inn, at which he hoped to procureassistance. Before reaching this place, he was beyond descriptionrelieved to find that Amabel had so far recovered as to be able to raiseher head. 

"The deadly faintness is passed, " she murmured; "I shall be better soon. But I fear I am too weak to pursue the journey at present. "

Leonard spurred on his steed, and in another instant reached Tyburn, anddrew up at the little inn. But no assistance could be obtained there. The house was closed; there was a red cross on the door; and a watchman, stationed in front of it, informed him that all the family had died ofthe plague except the landlord--"and he will be buried beside them inPaddington churchyard before to-morrow morning, " added the man; "for hisnurse tells me it is impossible he can survive many hours. "

As he spoke an upper window was opened, and a woman, thrusting forth herhead, cried, "Poor Master Sandys has just breathed his last. Come in, Philip, and help me to prepare the body for the dead-cart. "

"I will be with you in a minute, " rejoined the watchman. "You maypossibly procure accommodation at the Wheatsheaf at Paddington, " headded to Leonard; "it is but a short distance up the road. "

Thanking him for the information, Leonard took the course indicated. Hehad not proceeded far, when he was alarmed by hearing a piteous cry of"Stop! stop!" proceeding from Blaize; and, halting, found that theporter had been so greatly terrified by the watchman's account of thefrightful mortality in the poor innkeeper's family, that he had appliedto his phial of plague-water, and in pulling it put had dropped his boxof rufuses, and the jar of anti-pestilential confection. He had justascertained his loss, and wished to go back, but this Nizza Macascreewould not permit. Enraged at the delay, Leonard peremptorily ordered theporter to come on; and Blaize, casting a rueful glance at his treasures, which he perceived at a little distance in the middle of the road, wascompelled to obey. 

At Paddington, another disappointment awaited them. The Wheatsheaf wasoccupied by two large families, who were flying from the infected city, and no accommodation could be obtained. Leonard looked wistfully atNizza Macascree, as if to ascertain what to do, and she was equallyperplexed; but the difficulty was relieved by Amabel herself, who saidshe felt much better, and able to proceed a little further. "Do notreturn to London, " she continued with great earnestness. "I would ratherdie on the road than go home again. Some cottage will receive us. Ifnot, I can rest for a short time in the fields. "

Thinking it best to comply, Leonard proceeded along the Harrow-road. Soon after crossing Paddington Green, he overtook a little train offugitives driving a cart filled with children, and laden with luggage. Further on, as he surveyed the beautiful meadows, stretching out oneither side of him, he perceived a line of small tents, resembling agipsy encampment, pitched at a certain distance from each other, andevidently occupied by families who had fled from their homes from fearof infection. This gave a singular character to the prospect. But therewere other and far more painful sights on the road, which could not failto attract attention. For the first half-mile, almost at every hundredyards might be seen some sick man, who, unable to proceed further, hadfallen against the hedge-side, and exhibited his sores to move the pityof the passers-by. But these supplications were wholly unheeded. Self-preservation was the first object with all, and the travellersholding handkerchiefs steeped in vinegar to their faces, and avertingtheir heads, passed by on the other side of the way. 

The pestilence, it may be remarked, had visited with extraordinaryrigour the whole of the higher country at the west and north-west of themetropolis. The charmingly-situated, and, at other seasons, healthfulvillages of Hampstead and Highgate, suffered severely from the scourge;and it even extended its ravages as far as Harrow-on-the-Hill, which ithalf depopulated. This will account for the circumstance of a largepest-house being erected in the neighbourhood of Westbourne Green, whichthe party now approached. Two litters were seen crossing the fields inthe direction of the hospital, and this circumstance called Leonard'sattention to it. Shudderingly averting his gaze, he quickened his pace, and soon reached a small farmhouse on the summit of the hill rising fromKensal Green. Determined to seek a temporary asylum here for Amabel, heopened a gate, and, riding into the yard, fortunately met with owner ofthe house, a worthy farmer, named Wingfield, to whom he explained hersituation. The man at first hesitated, but, on receiving Leonard'ssolemn assurance that she was free from the plague, consented to receivethe whole party. 

Assisting Amabel to dismount, Wingfield conveyed her in his arms intothe house, and delivered her to his wife, bidding her take care of her. The injunction was scarcely needed. The good dame, who was a middle-agedwoman, with pleasing features, which lost none of their interest frombeing stamped with profound melancholy, gazed at her for a momentfixedly, and then observed in an under-tone, but with much emotion, toher husband, "Ah! Robert, how much this sweet creature resembles ourpoor Sarah!"

"Hush! hush! dame, " rejoined her husband, hastily brushing away themoisture that sprang to his eyes; "take her to your chamber, and seethat she wants nothing. There is another young woman outside, whom Iwill send to you. "

So saying, he returned to the yard. Meantime, the others had dismounted, and Wingfield, bidding Nizza Macascree go in, led the way to the barn, where the horses were tied up, and fodder placed before them. This done, he conducted his guests to the house, and placing cold meat, bread, anda jug of ale before them, desired them to fall to--an injunction whichBlaize, notwithstanding his previous repast of roasted figs and pickledwalnuts, very readily complied with. While they were thus employed, DameWingfield made her appearance. She said that the poor creature (meaningAmabel) was too ill to proceed on her journey that day, and begged herhusband to allow her to stop till the next morning, when she hoped shewould be able to undertake it. 

"To-morrow morning, say you dame?" cried Wingfield; "she may stop tillthe day after, and the day after that, if you desire it, or she wishesit. Go tell her so. "

And as his wife withdrew, well pleased at having obtained her request, Wingfield addressed himself to Leonard, and inquired the cause ofAmabel's illness; and as the apprentice saw no necessity for secresy, and felt exceedingly grateful for the kind treatment he had experienced, he acquainted him with the chief particulars of her history. The farmerappeared greatly moved by the recital. 

"She resembles my poor Sarah very strongly, " he said. "My daughter washurried into an early grave by a villain who won her affections andbetrayed her. She now lies in Willesden churchyard, but her seducer isone of the chief favourites of our profligate monarch. "

"Do you mean the Earl of Rochester?" cried Leonard. 

"No, no, " replied the farmer, whose good-natured countenance had assumeda stern expression. "The villain I mean is worse, if possible, than theearl. He is called Sir Paul Parravicin. "

"Gracious Heaven!" exclaimed Leonard, in astonishment; "what a strangecoincidence is this!"

And he then proceeded to relate to Wingfield the persecution which NizzaMacascree had endured from the profligate knight The farmer listened tohis recital with breathless interest, and when it was ended arose, and, taking a hasty turn round the room, halted at the table and struck itforcibly with his clenched hand. 

"I hope that man will never cross my path, " he said, all the bloodmounting to his face, and his eye kindling with fury. "As God shalljudge me, I will kill him if I meet him. "

"Then I hope you never will meet him, " observed Leonard. "He has injuredyou enough already, without putting you out of the pale of Divinemercy. "

"These rascals have done us all an injury, " observed Blaize. "Patiencehas never been like herself since Major Pillichody entered my master'sdwelling, and made love to her. I feel quite uneasy to think how thelittle hussy will go on during my absence. She can't get out of thehouse, that's one comfort. "

"You have mentioned another wretch, who was constantly with Sir Paul, "cried Wingfield. "Perdition seize them!"

"Ay, perdition seize them!" echoed Blaize, striking the table in histurn--"especially Major Pillichody. "

"Did you ever suspect Sir Paul to be of higher rank than he pretends?"asked Leonard. 

"No, " rejoined Wingfield; "what motive have you for the question?"

Leonard then told him of the inquiries instituted by Doctor Hodgesrelative to Nizza's retreat, and how they had been baffled. "It isstrange, " he continued, "that Nizza herself never heard the real name ofher persecutor; neither can she tell where the house to which she wasconveyed, when in a fainting condition, and from which she was removedwhen attacked with the plague, is situated. "

"It is strange indeed, " observed the farmer, musingly. 

Soon after this, Nizza Macascree made her appearance, and informed themthat Amabel had fallen into a tranquil slumber, which, in allprobability, would completely renovate her. 

"I hope it will, " said Wingfield. "But I shall not part with herto-day. "

He then entered into conversation with Nizza, and after a little time, proposed to her and Leonard to walk across the fields with him toWillesden, to visit his daughter's grave. 

"My wife will take charge of Amabel, " he said; "you may safely trust herin her hands. "

Leonard could raise no objection, except the possibility that the Earlof Rochester and his companions might discover their retreat, and carryoff Amabel in his absence; but, after a little reflection, consideringthis altogether unlikely, he assented, and they set out. A pleasant walkacross the fields brought them to the pretty little village of Willesdenand its old and beautiful church. They proceeded to the grave of poorSarah Wingfield, which lay at the east of the church, beneath one of thetall elms, and Nizza, as she stood by the rounded sod covering theremains of the unfortunate girl, could not restrain her tears. 

"This might have been my own fate, " she said. "What an escape I havehad!"

"I did not bring you here to read you a lesson, " said Wingfield, in atone of deep emotion, "but because you, who know the temptation to whichthe poor creature who lies there was exposed, will pity her. Not alonedid remorse for her conduct prey upon her spirits--not alone did shesuffer from self-reproach, --but the scoffs and jeers of her sex, whonever forgive an erring sister, broke her heart. She is now, however, beyond the reach of human malice, and, I trust, at peace. "

As he said this, he walked away to hide his emotion, and presentlyafterwards rejoining them, they quitted the churchyard together. 

As they recrossed the fields, Wingfield observed two men digging a holein the ground, and, guessing their object, paused for a few minutes towatch them. Having thrown out the earth to the depth of a couple offeet, one of them took a long hooked pole, and attaching it to the bodyof a victim to the pestilence, who had wandered into the fields and diedthere, dragged it towards the pit. As soon as the corpse was pushed intoits narrow receptacle, the clay was shovelled over it, and trodden down. 

"This is a sad mode of burial for a Christian, " observed Wingfield. "Butit would not do to leave an infected body to rot in the fields, andspread the contagion. "

"Such a grave is better than the plague-pit, " rejoined Leonard, recalling the frightful scenes he had witnessed there. 

On reaching Wingfield's dwelling, they found from the good dame, thatAmabel had awakened from her slumber greatly refreshed; but she gave itas her opinion that she had better remain undisturbed. Accordingly, noone went into the room to her except Nizza Macascree. A substantialdinner was provided for his guests by the hospitable farmer; and Blaize, who had been for some time confined to salt provisions at his master'shouse, did ample justice to the fresh meat and vegetables. 

The meal over, Leonard, who felt exceedingly curious to learn what hadbecome of the mysterious stranger whose child he had carried to theplague-pit, and who had appeared so strangely interested in NizzaMacascree, determined to walk to the pest-house in Finsbury Fields andinquire after him. On communicating his intention to his host, Wingfieldwould have dissuaded him; but as Leonard affirmed he had no fear ofinfection, he desisted from the attempt. Just as the apprentice wasstarting, Blaize came up to him, and said, --"Leonard, I have a greatcuriosity to see a pest-house, and should like to go with you, if youwill let me. "

The apprentice stared at him in astonishment. 

"You will never dare to enter it, " he said. 

"I will go wherever you go, " replied the porter, with a confidencemainly inspired by the hospitable farmer's strong ale. 

"We shall see, " replied Leonard. "I shall keep you to your word. "

In less than an hour they reached Marylebone Fields (now the Regent'sPark), and, crossing them, entered a lane, running in pretty nearly thesame direction as the present New-road. It Drought them to Clerkenwell, whence they proceeded to Finsbury Fields, and soon came in sight of thepest-house. When Blaize found himself so near this dreaded asylum, allhis courage vanished. 

"I would certainly enter the pest-house with you, " he said to Leonard, "but I have used up all my vinegar, and you know I lost my box ofrufuses and the pot of anti-pestilential confection this morning. "

"That excuse shall not serve your turn, " replied Leonard. "You can getplenty of vinegar and plague medicine in the pest-house. "

"But I have no money to pay for them, " rejoined Blaize. 

"I will lend you some, " said Leonard, placing a few pieces in his hand. "Now, come along. "

Blaize would fain have run away, but, afraid of incurring theapprentice's anger, he walked tremblingly after him. They entered thegarden-gate, and soon reached the principal door, which, as usual, stoodopen. Scarcely able to support himself, the porter tottered into thelarge room; but as he cast his eyes around, and beheld the miserableoccupants of the pallets, and heard their cries and groans, he was soscared that he could not move another step, but stood like onetransfixed with terror. Paying little attention to him, Leonard walkedforward, and at the further extremity of the chamber found the youngchirurgeon whom he had formerly seen, and describing the stranger, inquired where he was placed. 

"The person you allude to has been removed, " returned the chirurgeon. "Doctor Hodges visited him this morning, and had him conveyed to his owndwelling. "

"Was he sensible at the time?" asked the apprentice. 

"I think not, " replied the chirurgeon; "but the doctor appeared torecognise in him an old friend, though I did not hear him mention hisname; and it was on that account, I conclude, that he had him removed. "

"Is he likely to recover?" asked Leonard, whose curiosity was aroused bywhat he heard. 

"That is impossible to say, " replied the young man. "But he cannot be inbetter hands than those of Doctor Hodges. "

Leonard perfectly concurred with him, and, after a few minutes' furtherconversation, turned to depart. Not seeing Blaize, he concluded he hadgone forth, and expected to find him in the garden, or, at all events, in the field adjoining. But he was nowhere to be seen. While wonderingwhat had become of him, Leonard heard a loud cry, in the voice of theporter, issuing from the barn, which, as has already been stated, hadbeen converted into a receptacle for the sick; and hurrying thither, hefound Blaize in the hands of two stout assistants, who had stripped himof his clothes, and were tying him down to a pallet. On seeing Leonard, Blaize implored him to deliver him from the hands of his persecutors;and the apprentice assuring the assistants that the poor fellow wasperfectly free from infection, they liberated him. 

It appeared, on inquiry, that Blaize had fallen against one of thepallets in a state almost of insensibility, and the two assistants, chancing to pass at the time, and taking him for a plague patient, hadconveyed him to the barn. On reaching it, he recovered, and besoughtthem to set him free, but they paid no attention to his cries, andproceeded to strip him, and bind him to the bed, as before related. 

Thus released, the porter lost no time in dressing himself; and Leonard, to allay his terrors, had a strong dose of anti-pestilential elixiradministered to him. After which, having procured him a box of rufuses, and a phial of plague-water, Blaize shook off his apprehension, and theyset out at a brisk pace for Kensal Green. 

VII. 

THE JOURNEY. 

Blaize was destined to experience a second fright. It has been mentionedthat the infected were sometimes seized with a rabid desire ofcommunicating the disorder to such as had not been attacked by it; andas the pair were making the best of their way along the Harrow-road, apoor lazar who was lying against the hedge-side, and had vainly imploredtheir assistance, suddenly started up, and with furious cries andgestures made towards the porter. Guessing his intention, Blaize took tohis heels, and, folding himself closely pressed, broke through the hedgeon the right, and speeded across the field. In spite of the alarmingnature of the occurrence, the apprentice could not help laughing at theunwonted agility displayed by the fat little porter, who ran so swiftlythat it appeared probable he would distance his pursuer. To preventmischief, however, Leonard set off after him, and was fast gaining uponthe lazar, whose strength was evidently failing, when the poor wretchuttered a loud cry, and fell to the ground. On coming up, Leonard foundhim lying with his face in the grass, and convulsed by the agonies ofdeath, and perceiving that all was over, hurried after the porter, whomhe found seated on a gate, at the further end of the field, solacinghimself with a draught of plague-water. 

"Oh, Leonard!" groaned the latter, "how little do we know what is forour good! I was delighted to quit my master's house this morning, but Inow wish with, all my heart I was back again. I am afraid I shall die ofthe plague after all. Pray what are the first symptoms?"

"Pooh! pooh! don't think about it, and you will take no harm, " rejoinedLeonard. "Put by your phial, and let us make the best of our way toFarmer Wingfield's dwelling. "

Being now in sight of the farm, which, from its elevated situation, could be distinguished at a distance of two miles in this direction, they easily shaped their course towards it across the fields. When abouthalfway up the hill, Leonard paused to look behind him. The view wasexquisite, and it was precisely the hour (just before sunset) at whichit could be seen to the greatest advantage. On the right, his gazewandered to the beautiful and well-wooded heights of Richmond andWimbledon, beyond which he could trace the long line of the Surreyhills, while nearer he perceived Notting Hill, now covered withhabitations, but then a verdant knoll, crowned by a few trees, butwithout so much as a cottage upon it. On the left stood Hampstead; atthat time a collection of pretty cottages, but wanting its present chiefornament, the church. At the foot of the hill rich meadows, borderedwith fine hedges, interspersed with well-grown timber, spread out as faras the eye could reach. Nothing destroyed the rural character of theprospect; nor was there any indication of the neighbourhood of a greatcity, except the lofty tower and massive body of Saint Paul's, whichappeared above the tops of the intervening trees in the distance. 

As on former occasions, when contemplating the surrounding country fromthe summit of the cathedral, Leonard could not help contrasting thebeauty of the scene before him with the horrible scourge by which it wasravaged. Never had the country looked so beautiful--never, therefore, was the contrast so forcible; and it appeared to him like a lovely maskhiding the hideous and ghastly features of death. Tinged by the sombrehue of his thoughts, the whole scene changed its complexion. The smilinglandscape seemed to darken, and the cool air of evening to become hotand noisome, as if laden with the deadly exhalations of the pestilence. Nor did the workings of his imagination stop here. He fancied even atthis distance--nearly seven miles--that he could discern Solomon Eagleon the summit of Saint Paul's. At first the figure looked like a smallblack speck; but it gradually dilated, until it became twice the size ofthe cathedral, upon the central tower of which its feet rested, whileits arms were spread abroad over the city. In its right hand thegigantic figure held a blazing torch, and in the left a phial, from themouth of which a stream of dark liquid descended. So vividly did thisphantasm present itself to Leonard, that, almost convinced of itsreality, he placed his hands before his eyes for a few moments, and, onwithdrawing them, was glad to find that the delusion was occasioned by ablack cloud over the cathedral, which his distempered fancy hadconverted into the colossal figure of the enthusiast. 

Blaize, who had taken the opportunity of his companion's abstraction tosip a little more plague-water, now approached, and told him thatWingfield was descending the hill to meet them. Rousing himself, Leonardran towards the farmer, who appeared delighted to see them back again, and conducted them to his dwelling. Owing to the tender and trulymaternal attention of Dame Wingfield, Amabel was so much better that shewas able to join the party at supper, though she took no share in themeal. Wingfield listened to the soft tones of her voice as she conversedwith his wife, and at last, unable to control his emotion, laid down hisknife and fork, and quitted the table. 

"What is the matter with your husband?" inquired Amabel of her hostess. "I hope he is not unwell. "

"Oh! no, " replied the good dame; "your voice reminds him of ourdaughter, whose history I have related to you--that is all. "

"Alas!" exclaimed Amabel, with a sympathizing look, "I will be silent, if it pains him to hear me speak. "

"On no account, " rejoined Dame Wingfield. "The tears he has shed willrelieve him. He could not weep when poor Sarah died, and I feared hisheart would break. Talk to him as you have talked to me, and you will dohim a world of good. "

Shortly afterwards, the farmer returned to the table, and the mealproceeded to its close without further interruption. As soon as theboard was cleared, Wingfield took a chair by Amabel, who, in compliancewith his wife's request, spoke to him about his daughter, and in termscalculated to afford him consolation. Leonard was enraptured by herdiscourse, and put so little constraint upon his admiration, that NizzaMacascree could not repress a pang of jealousy. As to Blaize, who hadeaten as much as he could cram, and emptied a large jug of the farmer'sstout ale, he took his chair to a corner, and speedily fell asleep; hishoarse but tranquil breathing proving that the alarms he had undergoneduring the day did not haunt his slumbers. Before separating for thenight, Amabel entreated that prayers might be said, and her requestbeing readily granted, she was about to retire with Nizza, whenWingfield detained them. 

"I have been thinking that I might offer you a safe asylum here, " hesaid. "If you like it, you shall remain with us till your health isfully reinstated. "

"I thank you most kindly for the offer, " returned Amabel, gratefully;"and if I do not accept it, it is neither because I should not esteemmyself safe here, nor because I am unwilling to be indebted to yourhospitality, but that I have been specially advised, as my last chanceof recovery, to try the air of Berkshire. I have little hope myself, butI owe it to those who love me to make the experiment. "

"If such is the case, " returned the farmer, "I will not attempt topersuade you further. But if at any future time you should need changeof air, my house shall be entirely at your service. "

Dame Wingfield warmly seconded her husband's wish, and, with renewedthanks, Amabel and her companion withdrew. As there was not sufficientroom for their accommodation within the house, Leonard and the portertook up their quarters in the barn, and, throwing themselves upon a heapof straw, slept soundly till three o'clock, when they arose and began toprepare for their journey. Wingfield was likewise astir, and, afterassisting them to feed and dress their horses, took them into the house, where a plentiful breakfast awaited them. At the close of the meal, Amabel and Nizza, who had breakfasted in their own room, made theirappearance. All being in readiness for their departure, Dame Wingfieldtook leave of her guests with tears in her eyes, and the honest farmerwas little less affected. Both gazed after them as long as theycontinued in sight. 

Having ascertained from Wingfield the route they ought to pursue, Leonard proceeded about a quarter of a mile along the Harrow-road, andthen turned off on the left into a common, which brought them to Acton, from whence they threaded a devious lane to Brentford. Here theyencountered several fugitives from the great city, and, as theyapproached Hounslow, learned from other wayfarers that a band ofhighwaymen, by whom the heath was infested, had become more than usuallydaring since the outbreak of the pestilence, and claimed a heavy taxfrom all travellers. This was bad news to Leonard, who becameapprehensive for the safety of the bag of gold given to Nizza by theenthusiast, and he would have taken another road if it had beenpracticable; but as there was no alternative except to proceed, he putall the money he had about him into a leathern purse, trusting that thehighwaymen, if they attacked them, would be content with this booty. 

When about halfway across the vast heath, which spread around them, in awild but not unpicturesque expanse, for many miles on either side, Leonard perceived a band of horsemen, amounting perhaps to a dozen, galloping towards them, and, not doubting they were the robbers inquestion, communicated his suspicions to his companions. Neither Amabelnor Nizza Macascree appeared much alarmed, but Blaize was so terrifiedthat he could scarcely keep his seat, and was with difficulty preventedfrom turning his horse's head and riding off in the opposite direction. 

By this time the highwaymen had come up. With loud oaths, two of theirnumber held pistols to the heads of Leonard and Blaize, and demandedtheir money. The apprentice replied by drawing forth his purse, andbesought the fellow to whom he gave it not to maltreat his companion. The man rejoined with a savage imprecation that he "would maltreat themboth if they did not instantly dismount and let him search thesaddle-bags;" and he was proceeding to drag Amabel from the saddle, whenLeonard struck him a violent blow with his heavy riding-whip, whichbrought him to the ground. He was up again, however, in an instant, andwould have fired his pistol at the apprentice, if a masked individual, who was evidently, from the richness of his attire, and the deferencepaid him by the others, the captain of the band, had not interfered. 

"You are rightly served, Dick Dosset, " said this person, "for yourrudeness to a lady. I will have none of my band guilty of incivility, and if this young man had not punished you, I would have done so myself. Pass free, my pretty damsel, " he added, bowing gallantly to Amabel; "youshall not be further molested. "

Meanwhile, Blaize exhibited the contents of his pockets to the otherhighwayman, who having opened the box of rufuses and smelt at the phialof plague-water, returned them to him with a look of disgust, and badehim follow his companions. As Leonard was departing, the captain of theband rode after him, and inquired whether he had heard at what hour theking meant to leave Whitehall. 

"The court is about to adjourn to Oxford, " he added, "and the king andsome of his courtiers will cross the heath to-day, when I purpose tolevy the same tax from his majesty that I do from his subjects. "

Leonard replied, that he was utterly ignorant of the king's movements;and explaining whence he came, the captain left him. The intelligence hehad thus accidentally obtained was far from satisfactory to theapprentice. For some distance, their road would be the same as thatabout to be taken by the monarch and his attendants, amongst whom it wasnot improbable Rochester might be numbered; and the possibility that theearl might overtake them and discover Amabel filled him with uneasiness. Concealing his alarm, however, he urged his steed to a quicker pace, andproceeded briskly on his way, glad, at least, that he had not lostSolomon Eagle's gift to Nizza. Amabel's weakly condition compelled themto rest at frequent intervals, and it was not until evening was drawingin that they descended the steep hill leading to the beautiful villageof Henley-upon-Thames, where they proposed to halt for the night. 

Crossing the bridge, they found a considerable number of the inhabitantsassembled in the main street and in the market-place, in expectation ofthe king's passing through the town on his way to Oxford, intimation ofhis approach having been conveyed by avant-couriers. Leonard proceededto the principal inn, and was fortunate enough to procure accommodation. Having conducted Amabel and Nizza to their room, he was repairing to thestable with Blaize to see after their steeds, when a loud blowing ofhorns was heard on the bridge, succeeded by the tramp of horses and therattling of wheels, and the next moment four valets in splendid liveryrode up, followed by a magnificent coach. The shouts of the assemblageproclaimed that it was the king. The cavalcade stopped before the inn, from the yard of which six fine horses were brought and attached to theroyal carriage, in place of others which were removed. Charles waslaughing heartily, and desired his attendants, who were neither numerousnor well-armed, to take care they were not robbed again between thisplace and Oxford; "Though, " added the monarch, "it is now of littleconsequence, since we have nothing to lose. "

"Is it possible your majesty can have been robbed?" asked the landlord, who stood cap in hand at the door of the carriage. 

"I'faith, man, it _is_ possible, " rejoined the king. "We were stopped onHounslow Heath by a band of highwaymen, who carried off two largecoffers filled with gold, and would have eased us of our swords andsnuff-boxes but for the interposition of their captain, who, as we live, is one of the politest men breathing--is he not, Rochester?"

Leonard Holt, who was among the crowd of spectators, started at themention of this name, and he trembled as the earl leaned forward inanswer to the king's question. The eyes of the rivals met at thismoment, for both were within a few yards of each other, and Rochester, whose cheek was flushed with anger, solicited the king's permission toalight, but Charles, affirming it was getting late, would not permithim, and as the horses were harnessed, and the drivers mounted, heordered them to proceed without delay. 

Inexpressibly relieved by his rival's departure, Leonard returned to thehouse, and acquainted Amabel with what had occurred. Quitting Henleybetimes on the following morning, they arrived in about three hours atWallingford, where they halted for some time, and, then pursuing theirjourney, reached Wantage at four o'clock, where they tarried for anhour. Up to this hour, Leonard had doubted the possibility of reachingtheir destination that night; but Amabel assuring him she felt nofatigue, he determined to push on. Accordingly, having refreshed theirsteeds, they set forward, and soon began to mount the beautiful downslying on the west of this ancient town. 

Crossing these heights, whence they obtained the most magnificent andextensive views of the surrounding country, they reached in aboutthree-quarters of an hour the pretty little hamlet of Kingston Lisle. Here they again paused at a small inn at the foot of a lofty hill, denominated, from a curious relic kept there, the Blowing Stone. Thisrocky fragment, which is still in existence, is perforated by a numberof holes, which emit, if blown into, a strange bellowing sound. Unawareof this circumstance, Leonard entered the house with the others, and hadjust seated, himself, when they were, astounded by a strange unearthlyroar. Rushing forth, Leonard found Blaize with his cheeks puffed out andhis mouth applied to the stone, into which he was blowing with all hisforce, and producing the above-mentioned extraordinary noise. 

Shortly after this, the party quitted the Blowing Stone, and havingtoiled up the steep sides of the hill, they were amply repaid onreaching its summit by one of the finest views they had ever beheld. Infact, the hill on which they stood commanded the whole of the extensiveand beautiful vale of the White Horse, which was spread out before themas far as the eye could reach, like a vast panorama, disclosing athousand fields covered with abundant, though as yet immature crops. Itwas a goodly prospect, and seemed to promise plenty and prosperity tothe country. Almost beneath them stood the reverend church of Uffingtonovertopping the ancient village clustering round it. Numerous othertowers and spires could be seen peeping out of groves of trees, which, together with the scattered mansions and farmhouses surrounded bygranges and stacks of hay and beans, gave interest and diversity to theprospect. The two most prominent objects in the view were the woodedheights of Farringdon on the one hand, and those of Abingdon on theother. 

Proceeding along the old Roman road, still distinctly marked out, andrunning along the ridge of this beautiful chain of hills, they arrivedat an immense Roman encampment, vulgarly called Uffingham Castle, occupying the crown of a hill. A shepherd, who was tending a flock ofsheep which were browsing on the delicious herbage to be found withinthe vast circular space enclosed by the inner vallum of the camp, explained its purpose, and they could not but regard it with interest. He informed them that they were in the neighbourhood of the famous WhiteHorse, a figure cut out of the turf on the hillside by the Saxons, andvisible for many miles. Conducting them to a point whence they couldsurvey this curious work, their guide next directed them to AshdownLodge, which lay, he told them, at about four miles' distance. They hadwandered a little out of their course, but he accompanied them for amile, until they came in sight of a thick grove of trees clothing abeautiful valley, above which could be seen the lofty cupola of themansion. 

Cheered by the sight, and invigorated by the fresh breeze blowing inthis healthful region, they pressed forward, and soon drew near themansion, which they found was approached by four noble avenues. They hadnot advanced far, when a stalwart personage, six feet two high, andproportionately stoutly made, issued from the covert. He had a gun overhis shoulder and was attended by a couple of fine dogs. Telling them hewas called John Lutcombe, and was the Earl of Craven's gamekeeper, heinquired their business, and, on being informed of it, changed his surlymanner to one of great cordiality, and informed them that Mrs. Buscot--such was the name of Amabel's aunt--was at home, and would beheartily glad to see them. 

"I have often heard her speak of her brother, Mr. Bloundel, " he said, "and am well aware that he is an excellent man. Poor soul! she has beenvery uneasy about him and his family during this awful dispensation, though she had received a letter to say that he was about to close hishouse, and hoped, under the blessing of Providence, to escape thepestilence. His daughter will be welcome, and she cannot come to ahealthier spot than Ashdown, nor to a better nurse than Mrs. Buscot. "

With this, he led the way to the court-yard, and, entering the dwelling, presently returned with a middle-aged woman, who Amabel instantly knew, from the likeness to her father, must be her aunt. Mrs. Buscot caughther in her arms, and almost smothered her with kisses. As soon as thefirst transports of surprise and joy had subsided, the good housekeepertook her niece and Nizza Macascree into the house, and desired JohnLutcombe to attend to the others. 

VIII. 

ASHDOWN LODGE. 

Erected by Inigo Jones, and still continuing in precisely the same stateas at the period of this history, Ashdown Lodge is a large squareedifice, built in the formal French taste of the seventeenth century, with immense casements, giving it the appearance of being all glass, ahigh roof lighted by dormer windows, terminated at each angle by a talland not very ornamental chimney, and surmounted by a lofty andlantern-like belvedere, crowned in its turn by a glass cupola. Thebelvedere opens upon a square gallery defended by a broad balustrade, and overlooking the umbrageous masses and lovely hills around it. Thehouse, as has been stated, is approached by four noble avenues, thetimber constituting which, is, of course, much finer now than at theperiod under consideration, and possesses a delightful old-fashionedgarden, and stately terrace. The rooms are lofty but small, and there isa magnificent staircase, occupying nearly half the interior of thebuilding. Among other portraits decorating the walls, is one ofElizabeth Stuart, daughter of James the First, and Queen of Bohemia, forwhom the first Earl of Craven entertained so romantic an attachment, andto whom he was supposed to be privately united. Nothing can be moresecluded than the situation of the mansion, lying as it does in themidst of a gentle valley, surrounded by a thick wood, and without havinga single habitation in view. Its chief interest, however, must always bederived from its connection with the memory of the chivalrous andhigh-souled nobleman by whom it was erected, and who made itoccasionally his retreat after the death of his presumed royal consort, which occurred about four years previous to the date of this history. 

Amabel was delighted with her new abode, and she experienced thekindness of a parent from her aunt, with whom, owing to circumstances, she had not hitherto been personally acquainted, having only seen herwhen too young to retain any recollection of the event. The widow of afarmer, who had resided on Lord Craven's estate near Kingston Lisle, Mrs. Buscot, after her husband's death, had been engaged as housekeeperat Ashdown Lodge, and had filled the situation for many years to theentire satisfaction of her employer. She was two or three years olderthan her brother, Mr. Bloundel; but the perfect health she enjoyed, andwhich she attributed to the salubrious air of the downs, combined withher natural cheerfulness of disposition, made her look much the youngerof the two. Her features, besides their kindly and benevolentexpression, were extremely pleasing, and must, some years ago, have beenbeautiful. Even now, what with her fresh complexion, her white teeth, and plump figure, she made no slight pretensions to comeliness. Shepossessed the same good sense and integrity of character as her brother, together with his strong religious feeling, but entirely unaccompaniedby austerity. 

Having no children, she was able to bestow her entire affections uponAmabel, whose sad story, when she became acquainted with it, painfullyaffected her; nor was she less concerned at her precarious state ofhealth. For the first day or two after their arrival, Amabel sufferedgreatly from the effects of the journey; but after that time, she gainedstrength so rapidly, that Mrs. Buscot, who at first had well-nighdespaired of her recovery, began to indulge a hope. The gentle suffererwould sit throughout the day with her aunt and Nizza Macascree in thegallery near the belvedere, inhaling the pure breeze blowing from thesurrounding hills, and stirring the tree-tops beneath her. 

"I never expected so much happiness, " she observed, on one occasion, toMrs. Buscot, "and begin to experience the truth of Doctor Hodges'assertion, that with returning health, the desire of life would return. I now wish to live. "

"I am heartily glad to hear you say so, " replied Mrs. Buscot, "and holdit a certain sign of your speedy restoration to health. Before you havebeen a month with me, I expect to bring back the roses to those palecheeks. "

"You are too sanguine, I fear, dear aunt, " rejoined Amabel, "but thechange that has taken place in my feelings, may operate beneficiallyupon my constitution. "

"No doubt of it, my dear, " replied Mrs. Buscot; "no doubt. "

The good dame felt a strong inclination at this moment to introduce asubject very near her heart, but, feeling doubtful as to its reception, she checked herself. The devoted attachment of the apprentice to herniece had entirely won her regard, and she fondly hoped she would beable to wean Amabel from all thought of the Earl of Rochester, andinduce her to give her hand to her faithful lover. With this view, sheoften spoke to her of Leonard--of his devotion and constancy, his goodlooks and excellent qualities; and though Amabel assented to all shesaid, Mrs. Buscot was sorry to perceive that the impression she desiredwas not produced. It was not so with Nizza Macascree. Whenever Leonard'sname was mentioned, her eyes sparkled, her cheek glowed, and sheresponded so warmly to all that was said in his praise, that Mrs. Buscotsoon found out the state of her heart. The discovery occasioned her somelittle disquietude, for the worthy creature could not bear the idea ofmaking even her niece happy at the expense of another. 

As to the object of all this tender interest, he felt far happier thanhe had done for some time. He saw Amabel every day, and noted withunspeakable delight the gradual improvement which appeared to be takingplace in her health. The greater part of his time, however, was notpassed in her society, but in threading the intricacies of the wood, orin rambling over the neighbouring downs; and he not only derivedpleasure from these rambles, but his health and spirits, which had beennot a little shaken by the awful scenes he had recently witnessed, werematerially improved. Here, at last, he seemed to have got rid of thegrim spectre which, for two months, had constantly haunted him. Nogreater contrast can be conceived than his present quiet life offered tothe fearful excitement he had recently undergone. For hot and narrowthoroughfares reeking with pestilential effluvia, resounding withfrightful shrieks, or piteous cries, and bearing on every side marks ofthe destructive progress of the scourge--for these terrible sights andsounds--for the charnel horrors of the plague-pit--the scarcely lessrevolting scenes at the pest-house--the dismal bell announcing thedead-cart--the doleful cries of the buriers--for graves surfeited withcorruption, and streets filled with the dying and the dead--and, aboveall, for the ever-haunting expectation that a like fate might be hisown, --he had exchanged green hills, fresh breezes, spreading views, thesong of the lark, and a thousand other delights, and assurances ofhealth and contentment. Often, as he gazed from the ridge of the downsinto the wide-spread vale beneath, he wondered whether the destroyingangel had smitten any of its peaceful habitations, and breathed a prayerfor their preservation!

But the satisfaction he derived from having quitted the infected citywas trifling compared with that of Blaize, whose sole anxiety was lesthe should be sent back to London. Seldom straying further than the gatesof the mansion, though often invited by John Lutcombe to accompany himto some of the neighbouring villages; having little to do, and less tothink of, unless to calculate how much he could consume at the nextmeal, --for he had banished all idea of the plague, --he conceived himselfat the summit of happiness, and waxed so sleek and round, that his faceshone like a full moon, while his doublet would scarcely meet around hiswaist. 

One day, about a fortnight after their arrival, and when things were inthis happy state, Amabel, who was seated as usual in the gallery at thesummit of the house, observed a troop of horsemen, very gallantlyequipped, appear at the further end of the northern avenue. Aninexpressible terror seized her, and she would have fled into the house, but her limbs refused their office. 

"Look there!" she cried to Nizza, who, at that moment, presented herselfat the glass door. "Look there!" she said, pointing to the cavalcade;"what I dreaded has come to pass. The Earl of Rochester has found meout, and is coming hither to carry me off. But I will die rather thanaccompany him. "

"You may be mistaken, " replied Nizza, expressing a hopefulness, whichher looks belied; "it may be the Earl of Craven. "

"You give me new life, " rejoined Amabel; "but no--no--my aunt has toldme that the good earl will not quit the city during the continuance ofthe plague. And see! some of the horsemen have distinguished us, and arewaving their hats. My heart tells me the Earl of Rochester is amongstthem. Give me your arm, Nizza, and I will try to gain some place ofconcealment. "

"Ay, let us fly, " replied the other, assisting her towards the door; "Iam in equal danger with yourself, for Sir Paul Parravicin is doubtlesswith them. Oh! where--where is Leonard?"

"He must be below, " cried Amabel "But he could not aid us at thisjuncture; we must depend upon ourselves. "

Descending a short staircase, they entered Amabel's chamber, andfastening the door, awaited with breathless anxiety the arrival of thehorsemen. Though the room whither they had retreated was in the upperpart of the house, they could distinctly hear what was going on below, and shortly afterwards the sound of footsteps on the stairs, blendedwith merry voices and loud laughter--amid which, Amabel coulddistinguish the tones of the Earl of Rochester--reached them. 

While both were palpitating with fright, the handle of the door wastried, and a voice announced that the apprentice was without. 

"All is lost!" he cried, speaking through the keyhole; "the king ishere, and is accompanied by the Earl of Rochester and otherprofligates. "

"The king!" exclaimed Amabel, joyfully; "then I am no longerapprehensive. "

"As yet, no inquiries have been made after you, " continued Leonard, unconscious of the effect produced by his intelligence, "but it isevident they know you are here. Be prepared, therefore. "

"I _am_ prepared, " rejoined Amabel. And as she spoke, she threw open thedoor and admitted Leonard. "Do not stay with us, " she added to him. "Incase of need, I will throw myself on his majesty's protection. "

"It will avail you little, " rejoined Leonard, distrustfully. 

"I do not think so, " said Amabel, confidently. "I have faith in hisacknowledged kindness of heart. "

"Perhaps you are right, " returned Leonard. "Mrs. Buscot is at presentwith his majesty in the receiving-room. Will you not make fast yourdoor?"

"No, " replied Amabel, firmly; "if the king will not defend me, I willdefend myself. "

Leonard glanced at her with admiration, but he said nothing. 

"Is Sir Paul Parravicin here?" asked Nizza Macascree, with greatanxiety. 

"I have not seen him, " replied Leonard; "and I have carefully examinedthe countenances of all the king's attendants. "

"Heaven be praised!" exclaimed Nizza. 

At this juncture, Mrs. Buscot entered the room. Her looks bespoke greatagitation, and she trembled violently. 

"You have no doubt heard from Leonard that the king and his courtiersare below, " she said. "His majesty inquired whether you were here, and Idid not dare to deceive him. He desires to see you, and has sent me foryou. What is to be done?" she added, with a look of distraction. "Isuppose you must obey. "

"There is no alternative, " replied Amabel; "I will obey his majesty'scommands as soon as I can collect myself. Take back that answer, dearaunt. "

"Has Leonard told you that the Earl of Rochester is here?" pursued Mrs. Buscot. 

Amabel replied in the affirmative. 

"God grant that good may come of it!" cried Mrs. Buscot, clasping herhands together, as she quitted the room; "but I am sorely afraid. "

A half-suppressed groan from the apprentice told that he shared in herapprehensions. 

"Leave us, Leonard, " said Amabel; "I would prepare myself for theinterview. "

The apprentice obeyed, and closing the door after him, stationed himselfat the foot of the staircase. Left alone with Nizza, Amabel threwherself on her knees, and besought the support of Heaven on this tryingoccasion. She then arose, and giving her hand to Nizza, they went downstairs together. Leonard followed them at a little distance, and with abeating heart. Two gentlemen-ushers were posted, at the door of thechamber occupied by the king. Not far from them stood Mrs. Buscot, who, having made known her niece to the officials, they instantly admittedher, but ordered Nizza to remain outside. 

On entering the room, Amabel at once discovered the king. He was habitedin a magnificent riding-dress and was seated on a rich fauteuil, aroundwhich were grouped a dozen gaily-attired courtiers. Amongst these werethe Earl of Rochester and Sir George Etherege. As Amabel advanced, glances of insolent curiosity were directed towards her, and Rochester, stepping forward, offered to lead her to the king. She, however, declined the attention. Greatly mortified, the earl would have seizedher hand; but there was so much dignity in her deportment, so muchcoldness in her looks, that in spite of his effrontery, he felt abashed. Charles smiled at his favourite's rebuff, but, in common with theothers, he could not help being struck by Amabel's extraordinary beautyand natural dignity, and he observed, in an under-tone, to Etherege, "Isit possible this can be a grocer's daughter?"

"She passes for such, my liege, " replied Etherege, with a smile. "But Icannot swear to her parentage. "

"Since I have seen her, I do not wonder at Rochester's extravagantpassion, " rejoined the monarch. "But, odds fish! she seems to carelittle for him. "

Having approached within a short distance of the king, Amabel would haveprostrated herself before him, but he prevented her. 

"Nay, do not kneel, sweetheart, " he said, "I am fully satisfied of yourloyalty, and never exact homage from one of your sex, but, on thecontrary, am ever ready to pay it. I have heard much of yourattractions, and, what is seldom the case in such matters, find theyhave not been overrated. The brightest of our court beauties cannotcompare with you. "

"A moment ago, the fair Amabel might be said to lack bloom, " observedEtherege; "but your majesty's praises have called a glowing colour toher cheek. "

"Would you deign to grant me a moment's hearing, my liege?" said Amabel, looking steadfastly at the king. 

"Not a moment's hearing merely, sweetheart, " returned Charles; "but anhour's, if you list. I could dwell on the music of your tones for ever. "

"I thank your majesty for your condescension, " she replied; "but I willnot long trespass on your patience. What I have to say concerns the Earlof Rochester. "

"Stand forward, my lord, " said Charles to the earl, "and let us hearwhat complaint is to be made against you. "

Rochester advanced, and threw a passionate and half-reproachful glanceat Amabel. 

"It may be improper for me to trouble your majesty on so light amatter, " said Amabel; "but your kindness emboldens me to speakunreservedly. You may be aware that this nobleman once entertained, orfeigned to entertain, an ardent attachment to me. "

"I need scarcely assure you, my liege, " interposed Rochester, "that itwas no feigned passion. And it is needless to add, that however ardentlyI felt towards my fair accuser then, my passion has in nowise abated. "

"I should wonder if it had, " rejoined Charles, gallantly. "I will notcontradict you, my lord, " said Amabel; "it _is_ possible you may haveloved me, though I find it difficult to reconcile your professions ofregard with your conduct--but this is not to the purpose. Whether youloved me or not, I loved _you_--deeply and devotedly. There is nosacrifice I would not have made for him, " she continued, turning to theking, "and influenced by these feelings, and deluded by false promises, I forgot my duty, and was rash enough to quit my home with him. "

"All this I have heard, sweetheart, " replied Charles. "There is nothingvery remarkable in it. It is the ordinary course of such affairs. I amhappy to be the means of restoring your lover to you, and, in fact, camehither for that very purpose. "

"You mistake me, my liege, " replied Amabel. "I do not desire to have himrestored to me. Fortunately for myself, I have succeeded in mastering mylove for him. The struggle has well-nigh cost me my life--but I _have_conquered. "

"I have yet to learn, sweetheart, " observed Charles, with an incredulouslook, "that woman's love, if deeply fixed, _can_ be subdued. "

"If I had not been supported by religion, my liege, I could _not_ havesubdued it, " rejoined Amabel "Night and day, I have passed insupplicating the Great Power that implanted this fatal passion in mybreast, and, at length, my prayers have prevailed. "

"Aha! we have a devotee here!" thought Charles. "Am I to understand, fair saint, that you would reject the earl, if he were to offer you hishand?" he asked. 

"Unquestionably, " replied Amabel, firmly. 

"This is strange, " muttered Charles. "The girl is evidently in earnest. What says your lordship?" he added to Rochester. 

"That she shall be mine, whether she loves me or not, " replied the earl. "My pride is piqued to the conquest. "

"No wonder!--the resistless Rochester flouted by a grocer's daughter. Ha! ha!" observed Charles, laughing, while the rest of the courtiersjoined in his merriment. 

"Oh! sire, " exclaimed Amabel, throwing herself at the king's feet, andbursting into tears, "do not abandon me, I beseech you. I cannot requitethe earl's attachment--and shall die if he continues his pursuit. Command him--oh! command him to desist. "

"I fear you have not dealt fairly with me, sweetheart, " said the king. "There is a well-favoured youth without, whom the earl pointed out asyour father's apprentice. Have you transferred your affections to him?"

"Your majesty has solved the enigma, " observed Rochester, bitterly. 

"You wrong me, my lord, " replied Amabel. "Leonard Holt is without. Lethim be brought into the royal presence and interrogated; and if he willaffirm that I have given him the slightest encouragement by look orword, or even state that he himself indulges a hope of holding a placein my regards, I will admit there is some foundation for the charge. Ipray your majesty to send for him. "

"It is needless, " replied Charles, coldly. "I do not doubt yourassertion. But you will do the earl an injustice as well as yourself, ifyou do not allow him a fair hearing. "

"If you will allow me five minutes alone with you, Amabel, or will takea single turn with me on the terrace, I will engage to remove everydoubt, " insinuated Rochester. 

"You would fail to do so, my lord, " replied Amabel. "The time is gone bywhen those accents, once so winning in my ear, can move me. "

"At least give me the opportunity, " implored the earl. 

"No, " replied Amabel, decidedly, "I will never willingly meet you more;for though I am firm in my purpose, I do not think it right to exposemyself to temptation. And now that I have put your majesty in fullpossession of my sentiments, " she added to the king; "now that I havetold you with what bitter tears I have striven to wash out my error, --Iimplore you to extend your protecting hand towards me, and to save mefrom further persecution on the part of the earl. "

"I shall remain at this place to-night, " returned Charles. "Take tillto-morrow to consider of it, and if you continue in the same mind, yourrequest shall be granted. "

"At least, enjoin the earl to leave me unmolested till then, " criedAmabel. 

"Hum!" exclaimed the king, exchanging a look with Rochester. 

"For pity, sire, do not hesitate, " cried Amabel, in a tone of such agonythat the good-natured monarch could not resist it. 

"Well, well, " he rejoined; "it shall be as you desire. Rochester, youhave heard our promise, and will act in conformity with it. "

The earl bowed carelessly. 

"Nay, nay, my lord, " pursued Charles, authoritatively, "my commands_shall_ be obeyed, and if you purpose otherwise, I will place you underrestraint. "

"Your majesty's wishes are sufficient restraint, " rejoined Rochester; "Iam all obedience. "

"It is well, " replied Charles. "Are you satisfied, fair damsel?"

"Perfectly, " replied Amabel. And making a profound and gratefulreverence to the king, she retired. 

Nizza Macascree met her at the door, and it was fortunate she did so, orAmabel, whose strength began to fail her, would otherwise have fallen. While she was thus engaged, Charles caught sight of the piper'sdaughter, and being greatly struck by her beauty, inquired her name. 

"Odds fish!" he exclaimed, when informed of it by Rochester, "a piper'sdaughter! She is far more beautiful than your mistress. "

"If I procure her for your majesty, will you withdraw your interdictionfrom me?" rejoined the earl. 

"No--no--that is impossible, after the pledge I have given, " repliedCharles. "But you must bring this lovely creature to me anon. I amenchanted with her, and do not regret this long ride, since it hasbrought her under my notice. "

"Your majesty's wishes shall be obeyed, " said Rochester. "I will notwait till to-morrow for an interview with Amabel, " he added to himself. 

Supported by Nizza Macascree and her aunt, and followed by Leonard, Amabel contrived to reach her own chamber, and as soon as she wassufficiently recovered from the agitation she had experienced, detailedto them all that had passed in her interview with the king. While theparty were consulting together as to the course to be pursued in thisemergency, the tap of a wand was heard at the door, and the summonsbeing answered by Mrs. Buscot, she found one of the ushers without, whoinformed her it was the king's pleasure that no one should leave thehouse till the following day, without his permission. 

"To insure obedience to his orders, " continued the usher, "his majestyrequires that the keys of the stables be delivered to the keeping of hischief page, Mr. Chiffinch, who has orders, together with myself, to keepwatch during the night. "

So saying, he bowed and retired, while Mrs. Buscot returned with thisnew and alarming piece of intelligence to the others. 

"Why should the mandate be respected?" cried Leonard, indignantly. "Wehave committed no crime, and ought not to be detained prisoners. Trustto me, and I will find some means of eluding their vigilance. If youwill remain here to-morrow, " he added to Amabel, "you are lost. "

"Do not expect any rational advice from me, my dear niece, " observedMrs. Buscot, "for I am fairly bewildered. "

"Shall I not forfeit the king's protection by disobeying hisinjunctions?" replied Amabel. "I am safer here than if I were to seek anew asylum, which would be speedily discovered. "

"Heaven grant you may not have cause to repent your decision!" criedLeonard, despondingly. 

"I must now, perforce, quit you, my dear niece, " said Mrs. Buscot, "though it breaks my heart to do so. His majesty's arrival has throwneverything into confusion, and if I do not look after the supper, whichis commanded at an early hour, it will never be ready. As it is, therewill be nothing fit to set before him. What with my distress about you, and my anxiety about the royal repast, I am well-nigh beside myself. "

With this, she quitted the room, and Amabel signifying to Leonard thatshe desired to be left alone with Nizza Macascree, he departed at thesame time. 

As Mrs. Buscot had stated, the utmost confusion prevailed below. Theroyal purveyor and cook, who formed part of the king's suite, werebusily employed in the kitchen, and though they had the whole householdat their command, they made rather slow progress at first, owing to thewant of materials. In a short time, however, this difficulty wasremedied. Ducks were slaughtered by the dozen; fowls by the score, and acouple of fat geese shared the same fate. The store ponds were visitedfor fish by John Lutcombe; and as the country abounded with game, alarge supply of pheasants, partridges, and rabbits was speedily procuredby the keeper and his assistants. Amongst others, Blaize lent ahelping-hand in this devastation of the poultry-yard, and he had justreturned to the kitchen, and commenced plucking one of the geese, whenhe was aroused by a slap on the shoulder, and looking up, beheldPillichody. 

"What ho! my little Blaize, my physic-taking porter, " cried the bully;"how wags the world with you? And how is my pretty Patience? How is thatpeerless kitchen-maiden? By the god of love! I am dying to behold heragain. "

"Patience is well enough, for aught I know, " replied Blaize, in a surlytone. "But it is useless for you to think of her. She is betrothed tome. "

"I know it, " replied Pillichody; "but do not suppose you are the solemaster of her affections. The little charmer has too good taste forthat. 'Blaize, ' said she to me, 'will do very well for a husband, but hecannot expect me to continue faithful to him. '"

"Cannot I?" exclaimed the porter reddening. "Fiends take her! but I do!When did she say this?"

"When I last visited your master's house, " replied Pillichody. "Sweetsoul! I shall never forget her tender looks, nor the kisses she allowedme to snatch from her honeyed lips when your back was turned. The veryrecollection of them is enchanting. "

"Zounds and fury!" cried Blaize, transported with rage. "If I am only aporter, while you pretend to be a major, I will let you see I am thebetter man of the two. " And taking the goose by the neck, he swung itround his head like a flail, and began to batter Pillichody about theface with it. 

"S'death!" cried the bully, endeavouring to draw his sword, "if you donot instantly desist, I will treat you like that accursed bird--cut yourthroat, pluck, stuff, roast, and eat you afterwards. " He was, however, so confounded by the attack, that he could offer no resistance, and inretreating, caught his foot against the leg of a table, and fellbackwards on the floor. Being now completely at the porter's mercy, andseeing that the latter was preparing to pursue his advantage with arolling-pin which he had snatched from the dresser, he besought himpiteously to spare him. 

"Recant all you have said, " cried Blaize, brandishing the rolling-pinover him. "Confess that you have calumniated Patience. Confess that sherejected your advances, if you ever dared to make any to her. Confessthat she is a model of purity and constancy. Confess all this, villain, or I will break every bone in your body. "

"I do confess it, " replied Pillichody, abjectly. "She is all youdescribe. She never allowed me greater freedom than a squeeze of thehand. "

"That was too much, " replied the porter, belabouring him with therolling-pin. "Swear that you will never attempt such a liberty again, orI will pummel you to death. Swear it. "

"I swear, " replied Pillichody. 

"Before I allow you to rise, I must disarm you to prevent mischief, "cried Blaize. And kneeling down upon the prostrate bully, who groanedaloud, he drew his long blade from his side. "There, now you may getup, " he added. 

So elated was Blaize with his conquest, that he could do nothing forsome time but strut up and down the kitchen with the sword over hisshoulder, to the infinite diversion of the other domestics, andespecially of John Lutcombe, who chanced to make his appearance at thetime, laden with a fresh supply of game. 

"Why, Blaize, man, " cried the keeper, approvingly, "I did not give youcredit for half so much spirit. "

"No man's courage is duly appreciated until it has been tried, " rejoinedBlaize. "I would combat with you, gigantic John, if Patience's fidelitywere called in question. "

Pillichody, meanwhile, had retired with a discomfited air into a corner, where he seated himself on a stool, and eyed the porter askance, as ifmeditating some terrible retaliation. Secretly apprehensive of this, andthinking it becoming to act with generosity towards his foe, Blaizemarched up to him, and extended his hand in token of reconciliation. Tothe surprise of all, Pillichody did not reject his overtures. 

"I have a great regard for you, friend Blaize, " he said, "otherwise Ishould never rest till I had been repaid with terrible interest for theindignities I have endured. "

"Nay, heed them not, " replied Blaize. "You must make allowances for thejealous feelings you excited. I love Patience better than my life. "

"Since you put it in that light, " rejoined Pillichody, "I am willing tooverlook the offence. Snakes and scorpions! no man can be a greatermartyr to jealousy than myself. I killed three of my most intimatefriends for merely presuming to ogle the widow of Watling-street, whowould have been mine, if she had not died of the plague. "

"Don't talk of the plague, I beseech you, " replied Blaize, with ashudder. "It is a subject never mentioned here. "

"I am sorry I alluded to it, then, " rejoined Pillichody. "Give me backmy sword. Nay, fear nothing. I entirely forgive you, and am willing todrown the remembrance of our quarrel in a bottle of sack. "

Readily assenting to the proposition, Blaize obtained the key of thecellar from the butler, and adjourning thither with Pillichody, theyseated themselves on a cask with a bottle of sack and a couple of largeglasses on a stool between them. 

"I suppose you know why I am come hither?" observed the major, smackinghis lips after his second bumper. 

"Not precisely, " replied Blaize. "But I presume your visit has somereference to Mistress Amabel. "

"A shrewd guess, " rejoined Pillichody. "And this reminds me that we haveomitted to drink her health. "

"Her better health, " returned Blaize, emptying his glass. "Heaven bepraised! she has plucked up a little since we came here. "

"She would soon be herself again if she were united to the Earl ofRochester, " said Pillichody. 

"There you are wrong, " replied Blaize. "She declares she has no longerany regard for him. "

"Mere caprice, believe me, " rejoined Pillichody. "She loves him betterthan ever. "

"It may be so, " returned Blaize; "for Patience, who ought to knowsomething of the matter, assured me she was dying for the earl; and ifshe had not told me the contrary herself, I should not have believedit. "

"Did she tell you so in the presence of Leonard?" asked Pillichody. 

"Why, now I bethink me, he _was_ present, " replied Blaize, involuntarilyputting his hand to his shoulder, as he recalled the horsewhipping hehad received on that occasion. 

"I knew it!" cried Pillichody. "She is afraid to confess her attachmentto the earl. Is Leonard as much devoted to her as ever?"

"I fancy so, " replied Blaize, "but she certainly gives _him_ noencouragement. "

"Confirmation!" exclaimed Pillichody. "But fill your glass. We willdrink to the earl's speedy union with Amabel. "

"Not so loud, " cried Blaize, looking uneasily round the cellar. "Ishould not like Leonard to overhear us. "

"Neither should I, " returned Pillichody, "for I have something to say toyou respecting him. "

"You need not propose any more plans for carrying off Amabel, " criedBlaize, "for I won't take any part in them. "

"I have no such intention, " rejoined Pillichody. "The truth is, " headded, mysteriously, "I am inclined to side with you and Leonard. But aswe have finished our bottle, suppose we take a turn in the court-yard. "

"With all my heart, " replied Blaize. 

Immediately after Amabel's departure Charles proceeded with hiscourtiers to the garden, and continued to saunter up and down theterrace for some time, during which he engaged Rochester inconversation, so as to give him no pretext for absenting himself. Theking next ascended to the belvedere, and having surveyed the prospectfrom it, was about to descend when he caught a glimpse of NizzaMacascree on the great staircase, and instantly flew towards her. 

"I must have a word with you, sweetheart, " he cried, taking her hand, which she did not dare to withdraw. 

Ready to sink with confusion, Nizza suffered herself to be led towardsthe receiving-room. Motioning to the courtiers to remain without, Charles entered it with his blushing companion, and after puttingseveral questions to her, which she answered with great timidity andmodesty, inquired into the state of her heart. 

"Answer me frankly, " he said. "Are your affections engaged?"

"Since your majesty deigns to interest yourself so much about me, "replied Nizza, "I will use no disguise. They are. "

"To whom?" demanded the king. 

"To Leonard Holt, " was the answer. 

"What! the apprentice who brought Amabel hither!" cried the king. "Why, the Earl of Rochester seemed to intimate that he was in love withAmabel. Is it so?"

"I cannot deny it, " replied Nizza, hanging down her head. 

"If this is the case, it is incumbent on me to provide you with a newlover, " replied Charles. "What will you say, sweetheart, if I tell you, you have made a royal conquest?"

"I should tremble to hear it, " replied Nizza. "But your majesty isjesting with me. "

"On my soul, no!" rejoined the king, passionately. "I have never seenbeauty equal to yours, sweetheart--never have been so suddenly, socompletely captivated before. "

"Oh! do not use this language towards me, my liege, " replied Nizza, dropping on her knee before him. "I am unworthy your notice. My heart isentirely given to Leonard Holt. "

"You will speedily forget him in the brilliant destiny which awaits you, child, " returned Charles, raising her. "Do not bestow another thought onthe senseless dolt who can prefer Amabel's sickly charms to your piquantattractions. By Heaven! you shall be mine. "

"Never!" exclaimed Nizza, extricating herself from his grasp, andrushing towards the door. 

"You fly in vain, " cried the king, laughingly pursuing her. 

As he spoke the door opened, and Sir Paul Parravicin entered the room. The knight started on seeing how matters stood, and the king lookedsurprised and angry. Taking advantage of their embarrassment, Nizza madegood her retreat, and hurrying to Amabel's chamber, closed and boltedthe door. 

"What is the matter?" cried Amabel, startled by her agitated appearance. 

"Sir Paul Parravicin is here, " replied Nizza. "I have seen him. But thatis not all. I am unlucky enough to have attracted the king's fancy. Hehas terrified me with his proposals. "

"Our persecution is never to end, " rejoined Amabel; "you are asunfortunate as myself. "

"And there is no possibility of escape, " returned Nizza, bursting intotears; we are snared like birds in the nets of the fowler. "

"You can fly with Leonard if you choose, " replied Amabel. 

"And leave you--impossible!" rejoined Nizza. 

"There is nothing for it, then, but resignation, " returned Amabel. "Letus put a firm trust in Heaven, and no ill can befall us. "

After passing several hours of the greatest disquietude, they were aboutto retire to rest, when Mrs. Buscot tapped at the door, and makingherself known, was instantly admitted. 

"Alas!" she cried, clasping her niece round the neck, "I tremble to tellyou what I have heard. Despite the king's injunctions, the wicked Earlof Rochester is determined to see you before morning, and to force youto compliance with his wishes. You must fly as soon as it is dark. "

"But how am I to fly, dear aunt?" rejoined Amabel. "You yourself knowthat the keys of the stable are taken away, and that two of the king'sattendants will remain on the watch all night. How will it be possibleto elude their vigilance?"

"Leave Leonard to manage it, " replied Mrs. Buscot. "Only prepare to setout. John Lutcombe will guide you across the downs to Kingston Lisle, where good Mrs. Compton will take care of you, and when the danger isover you can return to me. "

"It is a hazardous expedient, " rejoined Amabel, "and I would rather runall risks, and remain here. If the earl should resort to violence, I canappeal to the king for protection. "

"If you have any regard for me, fly, " cried Nizza Macascree. "I am lostif I remain here till to-morrow. "

"For _your_ sake I will go, then, " returned Amabel. "But I have aforeboding that I am running into the teeth of danger. "

"Oh! say not so, " rejoined Mrs. Buscot. "I am persuaded it is for thebest. I must leave you now, but I will send Leonard to you. "

"It is needless, " replied Amabel. "Let him come to us at the propertime. We will be ready. "

To explain the cause of Mrs. Buscot's alarm, it will be necessary toreturn to the receiving-room, and ascertain what occurred after Nizza'sflight. Charles, who at first had been greatly annoyed by Parravicin'sabrupt entrance, speedily recovered his temper, and laughed at theother's forced apologies. 

"I find I have a rival in your majesty, " observed the knight. "It isunlucky for me that you have encountered Nizza. Her charms were certainto inflame you. But when I tell you I am desperately enamoured of her, Iam persuaded you will not interfere with me. "

"I will tell you what I will do, " replied the good-humoured monarch, after a moment's reflection. "I remember your mentioning that you onceplayed with a Captain Disbrowe for his wife, and won her from him. Wewill play for this girl in the same manner. "

"But your majesty is a far more skilful player than Disbrowe, " repliedParravicin, reluctantly. 

"It matters not, " rejoined the monarch; "the chances will be moreequal--or rather the advantage will be greatly on your side, for you areallowed to be the luckiest and best player at my court. If I win, she ismine. If, on the contrary, fortune favours you, I resign her. "

"Since there is no avoiding it, I accept the challenge, " repliedParravicin. 

"The decision shall not be delayed an instant, " cried Charles, "What, ho!--dice!--dice!"

An attendant answering the summons, he desired that the other courtiersshould be admitted, and dice brought. The latter order could not be soeasily obeyed, there being no such articles at Ashdown; and theattendants were driven to their wits' ends, when Pillichody chancing tooverhear what was going forward, produced a box and dice, which wereinstantly conveyed to the king, and the play commenced. Charles, to hisinexpressible delight and Parravicin's chagrin, came off the winner, andthe mortification of the latter was increased by the laughter and tauntsof the spectators. 

"You are not in your usual luck to-day, " observed Rochester to him, asthey walked aside. 

"For all this, do not think I will surrender Nizza, " replied Parravicin, in a low tone, "I love her too well for that. "

"I cannot blame you, " replied Rochester. "Step this way, " he added, drawing him to the further end of the room. "It is my intention to carryoff Amabel to-night, notwithstanding old Rowley's injunctions to thecontrary, and I propose to accomplish my purpose in the followingmanner. I will frighten her into flying with Leonard Holt, and will thensecretly follow her. Nizza Macascree is sure to accompany her, and will, therefore, be in your power. "

"I see!" cried Parravicin. "A capital project!"

"Pillichody has contrived to ingratiate himself with Blaize, " pursuedthe earl, "and through him the matter can be easily managed. The keys ofthe stables, which are now intrusted to Chiffinch, shall be stolen--thehorses set free--and the two damsels caught in the trap prepared forthem, while the only person blamed in the matter will be Leonard. "

"Bravo!" exclaimed Parravicin. "I am impatient for the scheme to be putinto execution. "

"I will set about it at once, " returned Rochester. 

And separating from Parravicin, he formed some excuse for quitting theroyal presence. 

About an hour afterwards, Pillichody sought out Blaize, and told him, with a very mysterious air, that he had something to confide to him. 

"You know my regard for the Earl of Rochester and Sir Paul Parravicin, "he said, "and that I would do anything an honourable man ought to do toassist them. But there are certain bounds which even friendship cannotinduce me to pass. They meditate the worst designs against Amabel andNizza Macascree, and intend to accomplish their base purpose beforedaybreak. I therefore give you notice, that you may acquaint LeonardHolt with the dangerous situation of the poor girls, and contrive theirescape in the early part of the night. I will steal the keys of thestable for you from Chiffinch, and will render you every assistance inmy power. But if you are discovered, you must not betray me. "

"Not for the world!" replied Blaize. "I am sure we are infinitelyobliged to you. It is a horrible design, and must be prevented. I wishall this flying and escaping was over. I desire to be quiet, and amquite sorry to leave this charming place. "

"There is no alternative now, " rejoined Pillichody. 

"So it appears, " groaned Blaize. 

The substance of Pillichody's communication was immediately conveyed toLeonard, who told Blaize to acquaint his informer that he should havetwo pieces of gold, if he brought them the keys. To obtain them was notvery difficult, and the bully was aided in accomplishing the task by theEarl of Rochester in the following manner. Chiffinch was an inordinatedrinker, and satisfied he could turn this failing to account, the earlwent into the ball where he was stationed, and after a littleconversation, called for a flask of wine. It was brought, and while theywere quaffing bumpers, Pillichody, who had entered unperceived, contrived to open a table-drawer in which the keys were placed, and slipthem noiselessly into his doublet. He then stole away, and delivered hisprize to Blaize, receiving in return the promised reward, and chucklingto himself at the success of his roguery. The keys were conveyed by theporter to Leonard, and the latter handed them in his turn to JohnLutcombe, who engaged to have the horses at the lower end of the southavenue an hour before midnight. 

IX. 

KINGSTON LISLE. 

About half-past ten, and when it was supposed that the king and hiscourtiers had retired to rest (for early hours were kept in those days), Mrs. Buscot and Leonard repaired to Amabel's chamber. The goodhousekeeper noticed with great uneasiness that her niece lookedexcessively pale and agitated, and she would have persuaded her toabandon all idea of flight, if she had not feared that her stay might beattended with still worse consequences. 

Before the party set out, Mrs. Buscot crept down stairs to see that allwas safe, and returned almost instantly, with the very satisfactoryintelligence that Chiffinch was snoring in a chair in the hall, and thatthe usher had probably retired to rest, as he was nowhere to be seen. Not a moment, therefore, was to be lost, and they descended the greatstaircase as noiselessly as possible. So far all had gone well; but ongaining the hall, Amabel's strength completely deserted her, and ifLeonard had not caught her in his arms, she must have fallen. He washurrying forward with his burden towards a passage on the right, whenChiffinch, who had been disturbed by the noise, suddenly started to hisfeet, and commanded him to stop. At this moment, a figure enveloped in acloak darted from behind a door, and extinguishing the lamp whichChiffinch had taken from the table, seized him with a powerful grasp. All was now buried in darkness, and while Leonard Holt was hesitatingwhat to do, he heard a voice, which he knew to be that of Pillichody, whisper in his ear, "Come with me--I will secure your retreat. Quick!quick!"

Suffering himself to be drawn along, and closely followed by NizzaMacascree and Mrs. Buscot, Leonard crossed the dining-chamber, notwithout stumbling against some of the furniture by the way, and throughan open window into the court, where he found Blaize awaiting him. Without waiting for thanks, Pillichody then disappeared, and Mrs. Buscot, having pointed out the course he ought to pursue, bade himfarewell. 

Hurrying across the court, he reached the south avenue, but had notproceeded far when it became evident, from the lights at the windows, aswell as from the shouts and other noises proceeding from the court, thattheir flight was discovered. Encumbered as he was by his lovely burden, Leonard ran on so swiftly, that Nizza Macascree and Blaize couldscarcely keep up with him. They found John Lutcombe at the end of theavenue with the horses, and mounting them, set off along the downs, accompanied by the keeper, who acted as their guide. Striking off on theright, they came to a spot covered over with immense grey stones, resembling those rocky fragments used by the Druids in the constructionof a cromlech, and, as it was quite dark, it required some caution inpassing through them. Guided by the keeper, who here took hold of thebridle of his horse, Leonard threaded the pass with safety; but Blaizewas not equally fortunate. Alarmed by the sounds in the rear, and notattending to the keeper's caution, he urged his horse on, and the animalcoming in contact with a stone, stumbled, and precipitated him and NizzaMacascree to the ground. Luckily, neither of them fell against thestone, or the consequences might have been fatal. John Lutcombeinstantly flew to their aid, but before he reached them, Nizza Macascreehad regained her feet. Blaize, however, who was considerably shaken andbruised by the fall, was not quite so expeditious, and his dilatorinessso provoked the keeper, that, seizing him in his arms, he lifted himinto the saddle. Just as Nizza Macascree was placed on the pillionbehind him, the tramp of horses was heard rapidly approaching. Inanother moment their pursuers came up, and the foremost, whose tonesproclaimed him the Earl of Rochester, commanded them to stop. Inexpressibly alarmed, Amabel could not repress a scream, and guided bythe sound, the earl dashed to her side, and seized the bridle of hersteed. 

A short struggle took place between him and Leonard, in which the hitterstrove to break away; but the earl, drawing his sword, held it to histhroat. 

"Deliver up your mistress instantly, " he cried, in a menacing tone, "oryou are a dead man. "

Leonard returned a peremptory refusal. 

"Hold!" exclaimed Amabel, springing from the horse; "I will not be thecause of bloodshed. I implore you, my lord, to desist from this outrage. You will gain nothing by it but my death. "

"Let him touch you at his peril, " cried John Lutcombe, rushing towardsthem, and interposing his stalwart person between her and the earl. 

"Stand aside, dog!" cried Rochester furiously, "or I will trample youbeneath my horse's hoofs. "

"You must first get near me to do it, " rejoined the keeper. And as hespoke he struck the horse so violent a blow with a stout oaken cudgelwith which he was provided, that the animal became unmanageable, anddashed across the downs to some distance with his rider. 

Meanwhile, Parravicin having ridden up with Pillichody (for they provedto be the earl's companions) assailed Blaize, and commanded him todeliver up Nizza Macascree. Scared almost out of his senses, the porterwould have instantly complied, if the piper's daughter had not kept fasthold of him, and reproaching him with his cowardice, screamed loudly forhelp. Heedless of her cries, Parravicin seized her, and strove to dragher from the horse; but she only clung the closer to Blaize, and theother, expecting every moment to pay another visit to the ground, addedhis vociferations for assistance to hers. 

"Leave go your hold, " he cried, to Pillichody, who had seized him on theother side by the collar. "Leave go, I say, or you will rend my jerkinasunder. What are you doing here? I thought you were to help us toescape. "

"So I have done, " rejoined Pillichody, bursting into a loud laugh; "andI am now helping to catch you again. What a blind buzzard you must benot to perceive the net spread for you! Deliver up Nizza Macascreewithout more ado, or, by all the fiends, I will pay you off for yourdastardly assault upon me this morning. "

"I cannot deliver her up, " cried Blaize; "she sticks to me as fast as aburr. I shall be torn asunder between you. Help! help!"

Parravicin, having dismounted, now tore away Nizza Macascree, and wasjust about to transfer her to his own steed, when John Lutcombe, havingdriven away the earl in the manner before described, came to the rescue. One blow from his cudgel stretched the knight on the sod, and liberatedNizza Macascree, who instantly flew to her preserver. Finding howmatters stood, and that he was likely to be well backed, Blaize pluckedup his courage, and grappled with Pillichody. In the struggle they bothtumbled to the ground. The keeper rushed towards them, and seizingPillichody, began to belabour him soundly. In vain the bully imploredmercy. He underwent a severe chastisement, and Blaize added a few kicksto the shower of blows proceeding from the keeper, crying, as he dealtthem, "Who is the buzzard now, I should like to know?"

By this time, Parravicin had regained his legs, and the Earl ofRochester having forced back his steed, both drew their swords, and, burning for vengeance, prepared to renew the charge. The affair mighthave assumed a serious aspect, if it had not chanced that at thisjuncture lights were seen hurrying along the avenue, and the nextmoment, a large party issued from it. 

"It is the king?" cried Rochester. "What is to be done?"

"Our prey must be abandoned, " rejoined Parravicin; "it will never do tobe caught here. "

With this he sprang upon his steed, and disappeared across the downswith the earl. 

John Lutcombe, on perceiving the approach of the torch-bearers, instantly abandoned Pillichody, and assisting Blaize to the saddle, placed Nizza behind him. Leonard, likewise, who had dismounted tosupport Amabel, replaced her in the pillion, and in a few seconds theparty were in motion. Pillichody, who was the only person now left, didnot care to wait for the king's arrival, but snatching the bridle of hissteed, which was quietly grazing at a little distance, mounted him, andgalloped off in the direction which he fancied had been taken by theearl and his companion. 

Guided by the keeper, who ran beside them, the fugitives proceeded for acouple of miles at a rapid pace over the downs, when, it not appearingthat they were followed, John Lutcombe halted for a moment to recoverbreath. The fresh air had in some degree revived Amabel, and thecircumstance of their providential deliverance raised the spirits of thewhole party. Soon after this, they reached the ridge of the downs, themagnificent view from which was completely hidden by the shades ofnight, and, tracking the old Roman road for about a mile, descended thesteep hill in the direction of the Blowing Stone. Skirting a thick groveof trees, they presently came to a gate, which the keeper opened, andled them through an orchard towards what appeared to be in the gloom amoderately-sized and comfortable habitation. 

"The owner of this house, Mrs. Compton, " observed John Lutcombe toAmabel, "is a widow, and the kindest lady in Berkshire. A message hasbeen sent by your aunt to beg her to afford you an asylum for a fewdays, and I will answer for it you will be hospitably received. "

As he spoke, the loud barking of a dog was heard, and an old grey-headedbutler was seen advancing towards them with a lantern in his hand. Atthe same time a groom issued from the stable on the right, accompaniedby the dog in question, and, hastening towards them, assisted them todismount. The dog seemed to recognise the keeper, and leaped upon him, licked his hand, and exhibited other symptoms of delight. 

"What, Ringwood, " cried the keeper, patting his head, "dost thou knowthy old master again? I see you have taken good care of him, Sam, " headded to the groom. "I knew I was placing him into good hands when Igave him to Mrs. Compton. "

"Ay, ay, he can't find a better home, I fancy, " said the groom. 

"Will it please you to walk this way, ladies?" interposed the butler. "My mistress has been expecting you for some time, and had become quiteuneasy about you. " So saying, he led the way through a garden, filledwith the odours of a hundred unseen flowers, and ushered them into thehouse. 

Mrs. Compton, an elderly lady, of very pleasing exterior, received themwith great kindness, and conducted them to a comfortable apartment, surrounded with book-shelves and old family portraits, whererefreshments were spread out for them. The good old lady seemedparticularly interested in Amabel, and pressed her, but in vain, topartake of the refreshments. With extreme delicacy, she refrained frominquiring into the cause of their visit, and seeing that they appeared, much fatigued, rang for a female attendant, and conducted them to asleeping-chamber, where she took leave of them for the night. Amabel wasdelighted with her kind hostess, and, contrary to her expectations andto those of Nizza Macascree, enjoyed undisturbed repose. She awoke inthe morning greatly refreshed, and, after attiring herself, gazedthrough her chamber window. It looked upon a trim and beautiful garden, with a green and mossy plot carved out into quaintly-fashioned beds, filled with the choicest flowers, and surrounded by fine timber, amidwhich a tall fir-tree appeared proudly conspicuous. Mrs. Compton, who, it appeared, always arose with the sun, was busied in tending herflowers, and as Amabel watched her interesting pursuits, she couldscarcely help envying her. 

"What a delightful life your mistress must lead, " she observed to afemale attendant who was present; "I cannot imagine greater happinessthan hers. "

"My mistress ought to be happy, " said the attendant; "for there is noone living who does more good. Not a cottage nor a farm-house in theneighbourhood but she visits to inquire whether she can be of anyservice to its inmates; and wherever her services _are_ required, theyare always rendered. Mrs. Compton's name will never be forgotten inKingston Lisle. "

At this moment, Amabel caught sight of the benevolent countenance of thegood old lady looking up at the window, and a kindly greeting passedbetween them. Ringwood, who was a privileged intruder, was careeringround the garden, and though his mistress watched his gambols round herfavourite flower-beds with some anxiety, she did not check him. Amabeland Nizza now went down stairs, and Mrs. Compton returning from thegarden, all the household, including Leonard and Blaize, assembled inthe breakfast-room for morning prayers. 

Breakfast over, Mrs. Compton entered into conversation with Amabel, andascertained all the particulars of her history. She was greatlyinterested in it, but did not affect to conceal the anxiety it gave her. 

"Yours is really a very dangerous position, " she said, "and I should beacting unfairly towards you if I told you otherwise. However, I willgive you all the protection in my power, and I trust your retreat maynot be discovered. "

Mrs. Compton's remark did not tend to dispel Amabel's uneasiness, andboth she and Nizza Macascree passed a day of great disquietude. 

In the mean time, Leonard and Blaize were treated with great hospitalityby the old butler in the servants' hall; and though the former was notwithout apprehension that their retreat might be discovered, he trusted, if it were so, to some fortunate chance to effect their escape. He didnot dare to confide his apprehensions to the butler, nor did the othermake any inquiries; but it being understood that their visit was to besecret, every precaution was taken to keep it so. John Lutcombe hadtarried no longer than enabled him to discuss a jug of ale, and then setout for Ashdown, promising to return on the following day; but he hadnot yet made his appearance. Evening arrived, and nothing alarminghaving occurred, all became comparatively easy; and Mrs. Comptonherself, who had looked unusually grave throughout the day, nowrecovered her wonted cheerfulness. 

Their satisfaction, however, was not long afterwards disturbed by thearrival of a large train of horsemen at the gate, and a statelypersonage alighted, and walked at the head of a gallant train, towardsthe house. At the sight of the new-comers, whom they instantly knew werethe king and his suite, Amabel and Nizza Macascree flew upstairs, andshutting themselves in their chamber, awaited the result in the utmosttrepidation. They were not kept long in suspense. Shortly after theking's arrival, Mrs. Compton herself knocked at the door, and in a toneof deep commiseration, informed Amabel that his majesty desired to seeher. 

Knowing that refusal was impossible, Amabel complied, and descended to aroom looking upon the garden, in which she found the king. He wasattended only by Chiffinch, and received her with a somewhat severeaspect, and demanded why she had left Ashdown contrary to his expressinjunctions?

Amabel stated her motives. 

"What you tell me is by no means satisfactory, " rejoined the king; "butsince you have chosen to trust to yourself, you can no longer look forprotection from me. "

"I beseech your majesty to consider the strait into which I was driven, "returned Amabel, imploringly. 

"Summon the Earl of Rochester to the presence, " said the king, turningfrom her to Chiffinch. 

"In pity, sire, " cried Amabel, throwing herself at his feet. 

"Let the injunction be obeyed, " rejoined Charles, peremptorily. 

And the chief page departed. 

Amabel instantly arose, and drew herself proudly up. Soon afterwards, Rochester made his appearance, and on seeing Amabel, a flush oftriumphant joy overspread his features. 

"I withdraw my interdiction, my lord, " said the king to him. "You are atliberty to renew your suit to this girl. "

"Hear me, Lord Rochester, " said Amabel, addressing the earl; "I haveconquered the passion I once felt for you, and regard you only as onewho has sought my ruin, and from whom I have fortunately escaped. Whenyou learn from my own lips that my heart is dead to you, that I nevercan love you more, and that I only desire to be freed from youraddresses, I cannot doubt but you will discontinue them. "

"Your declaration only inflames me the more, lovely Amabel, " replied theearl, passionately. "You must, and shall be mine. "

"Then my death will rest at your door, " she rejoined. 

"I will take my chance of that, " rejoined the earl, carelessly. 

Amabel then quitted the king's presence, and returned to her ownchamber, where she found Nizza Macascree in a state of indescribableagitation. 

"All has happened that I anticipated, " said she to Nizza Macascree. "Theking will no longer protect me, and I am exposed to the persecutions ofthe Earl of Rochester, who is here. "

As she spoke, an usher entered, and informed Nizza Macascree that theking commanded her presence. The piper's daughter looked at Amabel witha glance of unutterable anguish. 

"I fear you must go, " said Amabel, "but Heaven will protect you!"

They then tenderly embraced each other, and Nizza Macascree departedwith the usher. 

Some time having elapsed, and Nizza not returning, Amabel becameseriously uneasy. Hearing a noise below, she looked forth from thewindow, and perceived the king and all his train departing. A terribleforeboding shot through her heart. She gazed anxiously after them, butcould not perceive Nizza Macascree. Overcome at last by her anxiety, sherushed down stairs, and had just reached the last step, when she wasseized by two persons. A shawl was passed over her head, and she wasforced out of the house. 

 * * * * *

BOOK THE FOURTH. 

SEPTEMBER, 1665. 

I. 

THE PLAGUE AT ITS HEIGHT. 

Amabel's departure for Berkshire caused no change in her father's modeof life. Everything proceeded as before within his quiet dwelling; and, except that the family were diminished in number, all appeared the same. It is true they wanted the interest, and indeed the occupation, affordedthem by the gentle invalid, but in other respects, no difference wasobservable. Devotional exercises, meals, the various duties of thehouse, and cheerful discourse, filled up the day, which never provedwearisome. The result proved the correctness of Mr. Bloundel's judgment. While the scourge continued weekly to extend its ravages throughout thecity, it never crossed his threshold; and, except suffering in a slightdegree from scorbutic affections, occasioned by the salt meats to whichthey were now confined, and for which the lemon and lime-juice, providedagainst such a contingency, proved an efficacious remedy, all the familyenjoyed perfect health. For some weeks after her separation from herdaughter, Mrs. Bloundel continued in a desponding state, but after thattime she became more reconciled to the deprivation, and partiallyrecovered her spirits. Mr. Bloundel did not dare to indulge a hope thatAmabel would ever return; but though he suffered much in secret, henever allowed his grief to manifest itself. The circumstance that he hadnot received any intelligence of her did not weigh much with him, because the difficulty of communication became greater and greater, aseach week the scourge increased in violence, and he was inclined to takeno news as good news. It was not so in the present case, but of this hewas happily ignorant. 

In this way, a month passed on. And now every other consideration wasmerged in the alarm occasioned by the daily increasing fury of thepestilence. Throughout July the excessive heat of the weather underwentno abatement, but in place of the clear atmosphere that had prevailedduring the preceding month, unwholesome blights filled the air, and, confining the pestilential effluvia, spread the contagion far and widewith extraordinary rapidity. Not only was the city suffocated with heat, but filled with noisome smells, arising from the carcasses with whichthe close alleys and other out-of-the-way places were crowded, and whichwere so far decomposed as not to be capable of removal. The aspect ofthe river was as much changed as that of the city. Numbers of bodieswere thrown into it, and, floating up with the tide, were left to taintthe air on its banks, while strange, ill-omened fowl, attracted thitherby their instinct, preyed upon them. Below the bridge, all captains ofships moored in the Pool, or off Wapping, held as little communicationas possible with those on shore, and only received fresh provisions withthe greatest precaution. As the plague increased, most of these removedlower down the river, and many of them put out entirely to sea. Abovethe bridge, most of the wherries and other smaller craft haddisappeared, their owners having taken them up the river, and mooredthem against its banks at different spots, where they lived in themunder tilts. Many hundreds of persons remained upon the river in thisway during the whole continuance of the visitation. 

August had now arrived, but the distemper knew no cessation. On thecontrary, it manifestly increased in violence and malignity. The deathsrose a thousand in each week, and in the last week in this fatal monthamounted to upwards of sixty thousand!

But, terrible as this was, the pestilence had not yet reached itsheight. Hopes were entertained that when the weather became cooler, itsfury would abate; but these anticipations were fearfully disappointed. The bills of mortality rose the first week in September to seventhousand, and though they slightly decreased during the secondweek--awakening a momentary hope--on the third they advanced to twelvethousand! In less than ten days, upwards of two thousand personsperished in the parish of Aldgate alone; while Whitechapel sufferedequally severely. Out of the hundred parishes in and about the city, oneonly, that of Saint John the Evangelist in Watling-street, remaineduninfected, and this merely because there was scarcely a soul leftwithin it, the greater part of the inhabitants having quitted theirhouses, and fled into the country. 

The deepest despair now seized upon all the survivors. Scarcely a familybut had lost half of its number--many, more than half--while those whowere left felt assured that their turn would speedily arrive. Even thereckless were appalled, and abandoned their evil courses. Not only werethe dead lying in the passages and alleys, but even in the mainthoroughfares, and none would remove them. The awful prediction ofSolomon Eagle that "grass would grow in the streets, and that the livingshould not be able to bury the dead, " had come to pass. London hadbecome one vast lazar-house, and seemed in a fair way of becoming amighty sepulchre. 

During all this time, Saint Paul's continued to be used as a pest-house, but it was not so crowded as heretofore, because, as not one in fifty ofthe infected recovered when placed under medical care, it was notthought worth while to remove them from their own abodes. The number ofattendants, too, had diminished. Some had died, but the greater part hadabandoned their offices from a fear of sharing the fate of theirpatients. In consequence of these changes, Judith Malmayns had beenadvanced to the post of chief nurse at the cathedral. Both she andChowles had been attacked by the plague, and both had recovered. Judithattended the coffin-maker, and it was mainly owing to her that he gotthrough the attack. She never left him for a moment, and would neversuffer any one to approach him--a necessary precaution, as he was somuch alarmed by his situation that he would infallibly have made someawkward revelations. When Judith, in her turn, was seized, Chowlesexhibited no such consideration for her, and scarcely affected toconceal his disappointment at her recovery. This want of feeling on hispart greatly incensed her against him, and though he contrived in somedegree to appease her, it was long before she entirely forgave him. Farfrom being amended by her sufferings, she seemed to have grown moreobdurate, and instantly commenced a fresh career of crime. It was not, however, necessary now to hasten the end of the sick. The distemper hadacquired such force and malignity that it did its work quicklyenough--often too quickly--and all she sought was to obtain possessionof the poor patients' attire, or any valuables they might possess worthappropriating. To turn to the brighter side of the picture, it must notbe omitted that when the pestilence was at its height, and no offerscould induce the timorous to venture forth, or render assistance to thesufferers, Sir John Lawrence the Lord Mayor, the Duke of Albermarle, theEarl of Craven, and the Archbishop of Canterbury, devoted themselves tothe care of the infected, and supplied them with every necessary theyrequired. Among the physicians, no one deserves more honourable mentionthan Doctor Hodges, who was unremitting in his attentions to thesufferers. 

To return to the grocer. While the plague was thus raging around him, and while every house in Wood-street except one or two, from which theinmates had fled, was attacked by the pestilence, he and his family hadremained untouched. About the middle of August, he experienced a greatalarm. His second son, Hubert, fell sick, and he removed him to one ofthe upper rooms which he had set aside as an hospital, and attended uponhim himself. In a few days, however, his fears were removed and hefound, to his great satisfaction, that the youth had not been attackedby the plague, but was only suffering from a slight fever, which quicklyyielded to the remedies applied. About the same time, too, he lost hisporter, Dallison. The poor fellow did not make his appearance as usualfor two days, and intelligence of his fate was brought on the followingday by his wife, who came to state that her husband was dead, and hadbeen thrown into the plague-pit at Aldgate. The same night, however, shebrought another man, named Allestry, who took the place of the lateporter, and acquainted his employer with the deplorable state of thecity. 

Two days afterwards, Allestry himself died, and Mr. Bloundel had no oneto replace him. He thus lost all means of ascertaining what was goingforward; but the deathlike stillness around him, broken only by thehoarse tolling of a bell, by a wild shriek or other appalling cry, proclaimed too surely the terrible state of things. Sometimes, too, apassenger would go by, and would tell him the dreadful height to whichthe bills of mortality had risen, assuring him that ere another monthhad expired, not a soul would be left alive in London. 

One night, as Solomon Eagle, who had likewise been miraculouslypreserved, pursued his course through the streets, he paused before Mr. Roundel's house, and looking up at the window, at which the latter hadchanced to be stationed, cried in a loud voice, "Be of good cheer. Youhave served God faithfully, and there shall no evil befall you, neithershall the plague come nigh your dwelling. " And raising his arms, as ifinvoking a blessing upon the habitation, he departed. 

It was now the second week in September, and as yet Mr. Bloundel hadreceived no tidings of his daughter. At any other season he would havebeen seriously uneasy, but now, as has been already stated, all privategrief was swallowed up in the horror of the general calamity. Satisfiedthat she was in a healthful situation, and that her chance ofpreservation from the pestilence was better than that of any othermember of his family, he turned his thoughts entirely to them. Redoubling his precautions, he tried by every means to keep up thefailing spirits of his household, and but rarely ventured to open hisshutter, and look forth on the external world. 

On the tenth of September, which was afterwards accounted the most fatalday of this fatal month, a young man of a very dejected appearance, andwearing the traces of severe suffering in his countenance, entered thewest end of London, and took his way slowly towards the city. He hadpassed Saint Giles's without seeing a single living creature, or thesign of one in any of the houses. The broad thoroughfare was completelygrown over with grass, and the habitations had the most melancholy anddeserted air imaginable. Some doors and windows were wide open, discovering rooms with goods and furniture scattered about, having beenleft in this state by their inmates; but most part of them were closelyfastened up. 

As he proceeded along Holborn, the ravages of the scourge were yet moreapparent. Every house, on either side of the way, had a red cross, withthe fatal inscription above it, upon the door. Here and there, awatchman might be seen, looking more like a phantom than a living thing. Formerly, the dead were conveyed away at night, but now the carts wentabout in the daytime. On reaching Saint Andrew's, Holborn, severalpersons were seen wheeling hand-barrows filled with corpses, scarcelycovered with clothing, and revealing the blue and white stripes of thepestilence, towards a cart which was standing near the church gates. Thedriver of the vehicle, a tall, cadaverous-looking man, was ringing hisbell, and jesting with another person, whom the young man recognised, with a shudder, as Chowles. The coffin-maker also recognised him at thesame moment, and called to him, but the other paid no attention to thesummons and passed on. 

Crossing Holborn Bridge, he toiled faintly up the opposite hill, for hewas evidently suffering from extreme debility, and on gaining the summitwas obliged to support himself against a wall for a few minutes, beforehe could proceed. The same frightful evidences of the ravages of thepestilence were observable here, as elsewhere. The houses were allmarked with the fatal cross, and shut up. Another dead-cart was heardrumbling along, accompanied by the harsh cries of the driver, and thedoleful ringing of the bell. The next moment the loathly vehicle wasseen coming along the Old Bailey. It paused before a house, from whichfour bodies were brought, and then passed on towards Smithfield. Watching its progress with fearful curiosity, the young man noted howoften it paused to increase its load. His thoughts, coloured by thescene, were of the saddest and dreariest complexion. All around wore theaspect of death. The few figures in sight seemed staggering towards thegrave, and the houses appeared to be plague-stricken like theinhabitants. The heat was intolerably oppressive, and the air taintedwith noisome exhalations. Ever and anon, a window would be opened, and aghastly face thrust from it, while a piercing shriek, or lamentable cry, was uttered. No business seemed going on--there were no passengers--novehicles in the streets. The mighty city was completely laid prostrate. 

After a short rest, the young man shaped his course towards SaintPaul's, and on reaching its western precincts, gazed for some time atthe reverend structure, as if its contemplation called up many andpainful recollections. Tears started to his eyes, and he was about toturn away, when he perceived the figure of Solomon Eagle stationed nearthe cross at the western extremity of the roof. The enthusiast caughtsight of him at the same moment, and motioned him to come nearer. "Whathas happened?" he demanded, as the other approached the steps of theportico. 

The young man shook his head mournfully. "It is a sad tale, " he said, "and cannot be told now. "

"I can conjecture what it is, " replied Solomon Eagle. "But come to thesmall door near the northern entrance of the cathedral at midnight. Iwill meet you there. "

"I will not fail, " replied the young man. 

"One of the terrible judgments which I predicted would befall thisdevoted city has come to pass, " cried Solomon Eagle. "Another yetremains--the judgment by fire--and if its surviving inhabitants repentnot, of which there is as yet no sign, it will assuredly follow. "

"Heaven avert it!" groaned the other, turning away. 

Proceeding along Cheapside, he entered Wood-street, and took his waytowards the grocer's dwelling. When at a little distance from it, hepaused, and some minutes elapsed before he could muster strength to goforward. Here, as elsewhere, there were abundant indications of thehavoc occasioned by the fell disease. Not far from the grocer's shop, and in the middle of the street, lay the body of a man, with the faceturned upwards, while crouching in an angle of the wall sat a youngwoman watching it. As the young man drew nearer, he recognised in thedead man the principal of the Brotherhood of Saint Michael, and in thepoor mourner one of his profligate female associates. "What has becomeof your unhappy companions?" he demanded of the woman. 

"The last of them lies there, " she rejoined mournfully. "All the restdied long ago. My lover was true to his vow; and instead of deploringtheir fate, lived with me and three other women in mirth and revelrytill yesterday, when the three women died, and he fell sick. He did not, however, give in, but continued carousing until an hour before hisdeath. "

Too much shocked to make any reply, the young man proceeded towards thehutch. Beneath a doorway, at a little distance from it, sat a watchmanwith a halberd on his shoulder, guarding the house; but it was evidenthe would be of little further use. His face was covered with his hands, and his groans proclaimed that he himself was attacked by thepestilence. Entering the hutch, the young man pulled the cord of thebell, and the summons was soon after answered by the grocer, whoappeared at the window. "What, Leonard Holt!" he exclaimed, in surprise, on seeing the young man--"is it you?--what ails you?--you lookfrightfully ill. "

"I have been attacked a second time by the plague, " replied theapprentice, "and am only just recovered from it. "

"What of my child?" cried the grocer eagerly--"what of her?"

"Alas! alas!" exclaimed the apprentice. 

"Do not keep me in suspense, " rejoined the grocer. "Is she dead?"

"No, not dead, " replied the apprentice, "but--"

"But what?" ejaculated the grocer. "In Heaven's name, speak!"

"These letters will tell you all, " replied the apprentice, producing apacket. "I had prepared them to send to you in case of my death. I amnot equal to further explanation now. "

With trembling eagerness the grocer lowered the rope, and Leonard havingtied the packet to it, it was instantly drawn up. Notwithstanding hisanxiety to ascertain the fate of Amabel, Mr. Bloundel would not touchthe packet until he had guarded against the possibility of beinginfected by it. Seizing it with a pair of tongs, he plunged it into apan containing a strong solution of vinegar and sulphur, which he hadalways in readiness in the chamber, and when thoroughly saturated, laidit in the sun to dry. On first opening the shutter to answer Leonard'ssummons, he had flashed off a pistol, and he now thought to expel theexternal air by setting fire to a ball composed of quick brimstone, saltpetre, and yellow amber, which being placed on an iron plate, speedily filled the room with a thick vapour, and prevented the entranceof any obnoxious particles. These precautions taken, he again addressedhimself, while the packet was drying, to Leonard, whom he found gazinganxiously at the window, and informed him that all his family hadhitherto escaped contagion. 

"A special providence must have watched over you, sir, " replied theapprentice, "and I believe yours is the only family in the whole citythat has been so spared. I have reason to be grateful for my ownextraordinary preservation, and yet I would rather it had pleased Heavento take me away than leave me to my present misery. "

"You keep me in a frightful state of suspense, Leonard, " rejoined thegrocer, regarding the packet wistfully, "for I dare not open yourletters till they are thoroughly fumigated. You assure me my child isliving. Has she been attacked by the plague?"

"Would she had!" groaned Leonard. 

"Is she still at Ashdown?" pursued the grocer. "Ah! you shake your head. I see!--I must be beside myself not to have thought of it before. She isin the power of the Earl of Rochester. "

"She is, " cried Leonard, catching at the angle of the shed for support. 

"And I am here!" exclaimed Mr. Bloundel, forgetting his caution, andthrusting himself far out of the window, as if with the intention ofletting himself down by the rope--"I am here, when I ought to be nearher!"

"Calm yourself, I beseech you, sir, " cried Leonard; "a moment's rashnesswill undo all you have done. "

"True!" replied the grocer, checking himself. "I must think of others aswell as of her. But where is she? Hide nothing from me. "

"I have reason to believe she is in London, " replied the apprentice. "Itraced her hither, and should not have desisted from my search if I hadnot been checked by the plague, which attacked me on the night of myarrival. I was taken to the pesthouse near Westbourne Green, where Ihave been for the last three weeks. "

"If she was brought to London, as you state, " rejoined the grocer, "Icannot doubt but she has fallen a victim to the scourge. "

"It may be, " replied Leonard, moodily, "and I would almost hope it isso. When you peruse my letters, you will learn that she was carried offby the earl from the residence of a lady at Kingston Lisle, whither shehad been removed for safety; and after being taken from place to place, was at last conveyed to an old hall in the neighbourhood of Oxford, where she was concealed for nearly a month. "

"Answer me, Leonard, " cried the grocer, "and do not attempt to deceiveme. Has she preserved her honour?"

"Up to the time of quitting Oxford she had preserved it, " replied theapprentice. "She herself assured me she had resisted all the earl'simportunities, and would die rather than yield to him. But I will tellyou how I obtained an interview with her. After a long search, Idiscovered the place of her concealment, the old hall I have justmentioned, and climbed in the night, and at the hazard of my life, tothe window of the chamber where she was confined. I saw and spoke withher; and having arranged a plan by which I hoped to accomplish herdeliverance on the following night, descended. Whether our briefconference was overheard, and communicated to the earl, I know not; butit would seem so, for he secretly departed with her the next morning, taking the road, as I subsequently learnt, to London. I instantlystarted in pursuit, and had reached Paddington, when I fell ill, as Ihave related. "

"What you tell me in some measure eases my mind, " replied Mr. Bloundel, after a pause; "for I feel that my daughter, if alive, will be able toresist her persecutor. What has become of your companions?"

"Nizza Macascree has met with the same fate as Amabel, " replied Leonard. "She was unfortunate enough to attract the king's attention, when hevisited Ashdown Lodge in company of the Earl of Rochester, and wasconveyed to Oxford, where the court is now held, and must speedily havefallen a victim to her royal lover if she had not disappeared, havingbeen carried off, it was supposed, by Sir Paul Parravicin. But thevillain was frustrated in his infamous design. The king's suspicionfalling upon him, he was instantly arrested; and though he denied allknowledge of Nizza's retreat, and was afterwards liberated, hismovements were so strictly watched, that he had no opportunity ofvisiting her. "

"You do not mention Blaize, " said Mr. Bloundel. "No ill, I trust, hasbefallen him?"

"I grieve to say he has been attacked by the distemper he so muchdreaded, " replied Leonard. "He accompanied me to London, but quitted mewhen I fell sick, and took refuge with a farmer named Wingfield, residing near Kensal Green. I accidentally met Wingfield this morning, and he informed me that Blaize was taken ill the day before yesterday, and removed to the pest-house in Finsbury Fields. I will go thitherpresently, and see what has become of him. Is Doctor Hodges still amongthe living?"

"I trust so, " replied Mr. Bloundel, "though I have not seen him for thelast ten days. "

He then disappeared for a few minutes, and on his return lowered a smallbasket containing a flask of canary, a loaf which he himself had baked, and a piece of cold boiled beef. The apprentice thankfully received theprovisions, and retiring to the hutch, began to discuss them, fortifyinghimself with a copious draught of canary. Having concluded his repast, he issued forth, and acquainting Mr. Bloundel, who had at lengthventured to commence reading the contents of the packet by the aid ofpowerful glasses, that he was about to proceed to Dr. Hodges'sresidence, to inquire after him, set off in that direction. 

Arrived in Great Knightrider-street, he was greatly shocked at findingthe door of the doctor's habitation fastened, nor could he make any onehear, though he knocked loudly and repeatedly against it. The shuttersof the lower windows were closed, and the place looked completelydeserted. All the adjoining houses were shut up, and not a living beingcould be discerned in the street from whom information could be obtainedrelative to the physician. Here, as elsewhere, the pavement wasovergrown with grass, and the very houses had a strange and melancholylook, as if sharing in the general desolation. On looking down a narrowstreet leading to the river, Leonard perceived a flock of poultryscratching among the staves in search of food, and instinctively callingthem, they flew towards him, as if delighted at the unwonted sound of ahuman voice. These, and a half-starved cat, were the only things livingthat he could perceive. At the further end of the street he caught sightof the river, speeding in its course towards the bridge, and scarcelyknowing whither he was going, sauntered to its edge. The tide had justturned, and the stream was sparkling in the sunshine, but no craft couldbe discovered upon its bosom; and except a few barges moored to itssides, all vestiges of the numberless vessels with which it was oncecrowded were gone. Its quays were completely deserted. Boxes and balesof goods lay untouched on the wharves; the cheering cries with which theworkmen formerly animated their labour were hushed. There was no soundof creaking cords, no rattle of heavy chains--none of the busy humordinarily attending the discharge of freight from a vessel, or thepacking of goods and stores on board. All traffic was at an end; andthis scene, usually one of the liveliest possible, was now forlorn anddesolate. On the opposite shore of the river it appeared to be thesame--indeed, the borough of Southwark was now suffering the utmostrigour of the scourge, and except for the rows of houses on its banks, and the noble bridge by which it was spanned, the Thames appeared asundisturbed as it must have been before the great city was built uponits banks. 

The apprentice viewed this scene with a singular kind of interest. Hehad become so accustomed to melancholy sights, that his feelings hadlost their acuteness, and the contemplation of the deserted buildingsand neglected wharves around him harmonized with his own gloomythoughts. Pursuing his walk along the side of the river, he was checkedby a horrible smell, and looking downward, he perceived a carcass in thelast stage of decomposition lying in the mud. It had been washed ashoreby the tide, and a large bird of prey was contending for the possessionof it with a legion of water-rats. Sickened by the sight, he turned up anarrow thoroughfare near Baynard's Castle, and crossing Thames-street, was about to ascend Addle-hill, when he perceived a man wheeling ahand-barrow, containing a couple of corpses, in the direction of theriver, with the intention, doubtless, of throwing them into it, as thereadiest means of disposing of them. Both bodies were stripped of theirclothing, and the blue tint of the nails, as well as the blotches withwhich they were covered, left no doubt as to the disease of which theyhad died. Averting his gaze from the spectacle, Leonard turned off onthe right along Carter-lane, and threading a short passage, approachedthe southern boundary of the cathedral; and proceeding towards the greatdoor opposite him, passed through it. The mighty lazar-house was lesscrowded than he expected to find it, but its terrible condition farexceeded his worst conceptions. Not more than half the pallets wereoccupied; but as the sick were in a great measure left to themselves, the utmost disorder prevailed. A troop of lazars, with sheets foldedaround them, glided, like phantoms, along Paul's Walk, and mimicked in aghastly manner the air and deportment of the gallants who had formerlythronged the place. No attempt being made to maintain silence, the noisewas perfectly stunning; some of the sick were shrieking--some laughingin a wild unearthly manner--some praying--some uttering loudexecrations--others groaning and lamenting. The holy building seemed tohave become the abode of evil and tormented spirits. Many dead werelying in the beds--the few attendants who were present not caring toremove them; and Leonard had little doubt, that before another sun wentdown the whole of the ghastly assemblage before him would share theirfate. If the habitations he had recently gazed upon had appearedplague-stricken, the sacred structure in which he was now standingseemed yet more horribly contaminated. Ill-kept and ill-ventilated, theair was loaded with noxious effluvia, while the various abominationsthat met the eye at every turn would have been sufficient to produce thedistemper in any one who had come in contact with them. They were, however, utterly disregarded by the miserable sufferers and theirattendants. The magnificent painted windows were dimmed by a thickclammy steam, which could scarcely be washed off--while the carved oakscreens, the sculptured tombs, the pillars, the walls, and the flaggedfloors were covered with impurities. 

Satisfied with a brief survey of this frightful scene, Leonard turned todepart, and was passing the entrance to Saint Faith's, which stood open, when he caught sight of Judith standing at the foot of the broad stonesteps, and holding a lamp in her hand. She was conversing with a tallrichly-dressed man, whose features he fancied he had seen before, thoughhe could not at the moment call them to mind. After a briefconversation, they moved off into the depths of the vault, and he losteight of them. All at once it occurred to Leonard that Judith'scompanion was the unfortunate stranger whose child he had interred, andwho had been so strangely affected at the sight of Nizza Macascree. Determined to ascertain the point, he hurried down the steps and plungedinto the vault. It was buried in profound darkness, and he had notproceeded far when he stumbled over something lying in his path, andfound from the groan that followed that it was a plague-patient. Beforehe could regain his feet, the unfortunate sufferer whom he had thusdisturbed implored him, in piteous accents, which, with a shudder, herecognised as those of Blaize, to remove him. Leonard immediately gavethe poor porter to understand that he was near him, and would render himevery aid in his power. 

"Your assistance comes too late, Leonard, " groaned Blaize--"it's allover with me now, but I don't like to breathe my last in this dismalvault, without medicine or food, both of which I am denied by thatinfernal hag Mother Malmayns, who calls herself a nurse, but who is inreality a robber and murderess. Oh! the frightful scenes I havewitnessed since I have been brought here! I told you I should not escapethe plague. I shall die of it--I am sure I shall. "

"I thought you were at the pest-house in Finsbury Fields, " said Leonard. 

"I was taken there, " replied Blaize; "but the place was full, and theywould not admit me, so I was sent to Saint Paul's, where there wasplenty of room. Yesterday I did pretty well, for I was in the great wardabove, and one of the attendants obeyed my directions implicitly, and Iam certain if they had been fully carried out, I should have got well. Iwill tell you what I did. As soon as I was placed on a pallet, andcovered with blankets, I ordered a drink to be prepared of the innerbark of an ash-tree, green walnuts, scabious vervain, and saffron, boiled in two quarts of the strongest vinegar. Of this mixture I drankplentifully, and it soon produced a plentiful perspiration. I next had ahen--a live one, of course--stripped of the feathers, and brought to me. Its bill was held to the large blotch under my arm, and kept there tillthe fowl died from the noxious matter it drew forth. I next repeated theexperiment with a pigeon, and derived the greatest benefit from it. Thetumour had nearly subsided, and if I had been properly treatedafterwards, I should now be in a fair way of recovery. But instead ofnice strengthening chicken-broth, flavoured with succory and marigolds;or water-gruel, mixed with rosemary and winter-savory; or a panado, seasoned with verjuice or wood-sorrel; instead of swallowing largedraughts of warm beer; or water boiled with carduus seeds; or a possetdrink, made with sorrel, bugloss, and borage;--instead of theseremedies, or any other, I was carried to this horrible place when I wasasleep, and strapped to my pallet, as you perceive. Unloose me, if youcan do nothing else. "

"That I will readily do, " replied Leonard; "but I must first procure alight. " With this, he groped his way among the close ranks of ponderouspillars, but though he proceeded with the utmost caution, he could notavoid coming in contact with the beds of some of the other patients, anddisturbing them. At length he descried a glimmer of light issuing from adoor which he knew to be that of the vestry, and which was standingslightly ajar. Opening it, he perceived a lamp burning on the table, andwithout stopping to look around him, seized it, and hurried back to theporter. Poor Blaize presented a lamentable, and yet grotesqueappearance. His plump person was greatly reduced in bulk, and his roundcheeks had become hollow and cadaverous. He was strapped, as he hadstated, to the pallet, which in its turn was fastened to the adjoiningpillar. A blanket was tightly swathed around him, and a large cloth wasbound round his head in lieu of a nightcap. Leonard instantly set aboutreleasing him, and had just unfastened the straps when he heardfootsteps approaching, and looking up, perceived the stranger and JudithMalmayns advancing towards him. 

II. 

THE SECOND PLAGUE-PIT. 

Judith, being a little in advance of her companion, took Leonard in thefirst instance for a chirurgeon's assistant, and called to him, in aharsh and menacing voice, to let her charge alone. On drawing near, however, she perceived her mistake, and recognising the apprentice, halted with a disconcerted look. By this time, the stranger had come up, and remarking her embarrassment, inquired the cause of it. 

"Look there, " cried Judith, pointing towards the apprentice. "Yonderstands the very man you seek. "

"What! Leonard Holt, " cried the other, in astonishment. 

"Ay, Leonard Holt, " rejoined Judith. "You can now put any questions tohim you think proper. "

The stranger did not require the suggestion to be repeated, butinstantly hastened to the apprentice. "Do you remember me?" he asked. 

Leonard answered in the affirmative. "I owe you a large debt ofobligation, " continued the stranger, "and you shall not find me slow inpaying it. But let it pass for the moment. Do you know aught of NizzaMacascree? I know she was taken to Oxford by the king, and subsequentlydisappeared. "

"Then you know as much as I do of her, sir, " rejoined Leonard. 

"I was right, you see, Mr. Thirlby, " interposed Judith, with a maliciousgrin. "I told you this youth would be utterly ignorant of her retreat. "

"My firm conviction is, that she is in the power of Sir PaulParravicin, " observed Leonard. "But it is impossible to say where she isconcealed. "

"Then my last hope of finding her has fallen to the ground, " repliedThirlby, with a look of great distress. "Ever since my recovery from theplague, I have been in search of her. I traced her from Ashdown Park toOxford, but she was gone before my arrival at the latter place; andthough I made every possible inquiry after her, and kept strict andsecret watch upon the villain whom I suspected, as you do, of carryingher off, I could gain no clue to her retreat. Having ascertained, however, that you were seen in the neighbourhood of Oxford about thetime of her disappearance, I had persuaded myself you must have aidedher escape. But now, " he added, with a groan, "I find I was mistaken. "

"You were so, " replied Leonard, mournfully; "I was in search of mymaster's daughter, Amabel, who was carried off at the same time by theEarl of Rochester, and my anxiety about her made me neglectful ofNizza. "

"I am not ignorant of your devoted attachment to her, " remarked thestranger. 

"You will never find Amabel again, " observed Judith, bitterly. 

"What mean you woman?" asked Leonard. 

"I mean what I say, " rejoined Judith. "I repeat, you will never see heragain. "

"You would not speak thus positively without some motive, " returnedLeonard, seizing her arm. "Where is she? What has happened to her?"

"That you shall never learn from me, " returned Judith, with a triumphantglance. 

"Speak, or I will force you to do so, " cried Leonard, furiously. 

"Force me!" cried Judith, laughing derisively; "you know not whom youthreaten. "

"But _I_ do, " interposed Thirlby. "This young man _shall_ have an answerto this question, " he continued, addressing her in an authoritativetone. "Do you know anything of the girl?"

"No, " replied Judith; "I was merely jesting with him. "

"Shame on you, to trifle with his feelings thus, " rejoined Thirlby. "Step with me this way, young man, I wish to speak with you. "

"Do not leave me here, Leonard, " cried Blaize, "or I shall die beforeyou come back. "

"I have no intention of leaving you, " rejoined Leonard. "Are you awarewhether Doctor Hodges is still alive, sir?" he added to Thirlby. "I havejust been to his residence in Great Knight-rider-street, and found itshut up. "

"He has removed to Watling-street, " replied the other; "but I have notseen him since my return to London. If you wish it, I will go to hishouse at once, and send him to look after your poor friend. "

Leonard was about to return thanks for the offer, when the design wasfrustrated by Blaize himself, who was so terrified by Judith's looks, that he could pay no attention to what was going forward; and fearing, notwithstanding Leonard's assurance to the contrary, that he should beleft behind, he started to his feet, and wrapping the blanket about him, ran up the steps leading to the cathedral. Leonard and Thirlby followed, and seeing him dart into the southern aisle, would have pursued himalong it, but were afraid of coming in contact with the many sickpersons by whom it was thronged. They contented themselves, therefore, with watching his course, and were not a little surprised and alarmed tofind the whole troop of lazars set off after him, making the sacredwalls ring with their cries. Frightened by the clamour, Blaize redoubledhis speed, and, with this ghastly train at his heels, crossed the lowerpart of the mid-aisle, and darting through the pillars, took refugewithin Bishop Kempe's Chapel, the door of which stood open, and which heinstantly closed after him. Judith, who had followed the party from thesubterranean church, laughed heartily at the chase of the poor porter, and uttered an exclamation of regret at its sudden conclusion. Leonard, however, being apprehensive of mischief from the crowd of sick personscollected before the door, some of whom were knocking against it andtrying to force it open, addressed himself to a couple of theattendants, and prevailed on them to accompany him to the chapel. Theassemblage was speedily dispersed, and Blaize hearing Leonard's voice, instantly opened the door and admitted him; and, as soon as his fearswere allayed, he was placed on a pallet within the chapel, and wrappedup in blankets, while such remedies as were deemed proper wereadministered to him. Committing him to the care of the attendants, andpromising to reward them well for their trouble, Leonard told Blaize heshould go and bring Doctor Hodges to him. Accordingly, he departed, andfinding Thirlby waiting for him at the south door, they went forthtogether. 

"I am almost afraid of leaving the poor fellow, " said Leonard, hesitating as he was about to descends the steps. "Judith Malmayns is socunning and unscrupulous, that she may find some means of doing him aninjury. "

"Have no fear, " replied Thirlby; "she has promised me not to molest himfurther. "

"You appear to have a strange influence over her, then, " observedLeonard. "May I ask how you have attained it?"

"No matter, " replied the other. "It must suffice that I am willing toexercise it in your behalf. "

"And you are not disposed to tell me the nature of the interest you feelin Nizza Macascree?" pursued Leonard. 

"Not as yet, " replied Thirlby, with a look and tone calculated to put astop to further inquiries. 

Passing through Saint Austin's Gate, they approached Watling-street, atthe corner of which stood the house where Doctor Hodges had taken up histemporary abode, that he might visit the sick in the cathedral withgreater convenience, and be more readily summoned whenever hisattendance might be required. Thirlby's knock at the door was answered, to Leonard's great satisfaction, by the old porter, who was equallydelighted to see him. 

It did not escape Leonard that the porter treated the stranger withgreat respect, and he inferred from this that he was a person of someconsideration, as indeed his deportment bespoke him. The old maninformed them that his master had been summoned on a case of urgencyearly in the morning, and had not yet returned, neither was he awarewhither he was gone. He promised, however, to acquaint him with Blaize'scondition immediately on his return--"and I need not assure you, " headded to Leonard, "that he will instantly go to him. " Thirlby theninquired of the porter whether Mike Macascree, the blind piper, wasstill at Dame Lucas's cottage, in Finsbury Fields, and was answered inthe affirmative by the old man, who added, however, in a voice of muchemotion, that the good dame herself was no more. 

"She died about a fortnight ago of the plague, " he said, "and is buriedwhere she desired to be, beneath an old apple-tree in her garden. "

"Alas!" exclaimed Leonard, brushing away a tear, "her own foreboding istoo truly realised. "

"I am about to visit the old piper, " observed Thirlby to the apprentice. "Will you go with me?"

The other readily acquiesced, only stipulating that they should call inWood-street on the way, that he might inquire whether his master wantedhim. Thirlby agreeing to this, and the old porter repeating hisassurance that Leonard might make himself quite easy as to Blaize, forhe would send his master to him the instant he returned, they set out. On reaching Wood-street the apprentice gave the customary signal, andthe grocer answering it, he informed him of his unexpected meeting withBlaize, and of the state in which he had left him. Mr. Bloundel was muchdistressed by the intelligence, and telling Leonard that he should notrequire him again that night, besought him to observe the utmostcaution. This the apprentice promised, and joining Thirlby, who hadwalked forward to a little distance, they struck into a narrow street onthe right, and proceeding along Aldermanbury, soon arrived at the firstpostern in the city walls beyond Cripplegate. 

Hitherto, Thirlby had maintained a profound silence, and appeared lostin melancholy reflection. Except now and then casting a commiseratingglance at the wretched objects they encountered on the road, he kept hiseyes steadily fixed upon the ground, and walked at a brisky pace, as ifdesirous of getting out of the city as quickly as possible. Notwithstanding his weakness, Leonard managed to keep up with him, andhis curiosity being greatly aroused by what had just occurred, he beganto study his appearance and features attentively. Thirlby was full sixfeet in height, and possessed a powerful and well-proportioned figure, and would have been considered extremely handsome but for a certainsinister expression about the eyes, which were large and dark, butlighted by a fierce and peculiar fire. His complexion was dark, and hiscountenance still bore the impress of the dreadful disease from which hehad recently recovered. A gloomy shade sat about his brow, and it seemedto Leonard as if he had been led by his passions into the commission ofcrimes of which he had afterwards bitterly repented. His deportment wasproud and commanding, and though he exhibited no haughtiness towards theapprentice, but, on the contrary, treated him with great familiarity, itwas plain he did so merely from a sense of gratitude. His age was underforty, and his habiliments were rich, though of a sombre colour. 

Passing through the postern, which stood wide open, the watchman havingdisappeared, they entered a narrow lane, skirted by a few detachedhouses, all of which were shut up, and marked by the fatal cross. Asthey passed one of these habitations, they were arrested by loud andcontinued shrieks of the most heart-rending nature, and questioning awatchman who stood at an adjoining door, as to the cause of them, hesaid they proceeded from a poor lady who had just lost the last of herfamily by the plague. 

"Her husband and all her children, except one daughter, died last week, "said the man, "and though she seemed deeply afflicted, yet she bore herloss with resignation. Yesterday, her daughter was taken ill, and shedied about two hours ago, since when the poor mother has done nothingbut shriek in the way you hear. Poor soul! she will die of grief, asmany have done before her at this awful time. "

"Something must be done to pacify her, " returned Thirlby, in a voice ofmuch emotion, --"she must be removed from her child. "

"Where can she be removed to?" rejoined the watchman. "Who will receiveher?"

"At all events, we can remove the object that occasions her affliction, "rejoined Thirlby. "My heart bleeds for her. I never heard shrieks sodreadful. "

"The dead-cart will pass by in an hour, " said the watchman; "and thenthe body can be taken away. "

"An hour will be too late, " rejoined Thirlby. "If she continues in thisfrantic state, she will be dead before that time. You have a hand-barrowthere. Take the body to the plague-pit at once, and I will reward youfor your trouble. "

"We shall find some difficulty in getting into the house, " said thewatchman, who evidently felt some repugnance to the task. 

"Not so, " replied Thirlby. And pushing forcibly against the door, heburst it open, and, directed by the cries, entered a room on the right. The watchman's statement proved correct. Stretched upon a bed in onecorner lay the body of a beautiful girl, while the poor mother wasbending over it in a state bordering on distraction. On seeing Thirlby, she fled to the further end of the room, but did not desist from hercries. In fact, she was unable to do so, being under the dominion of thewildest hysterical passion. In vain Thirlby endeavoured to make hercomprehend by signs the nature of his errand. Waving him off, shecontinued shrieking more loudly than ever. Half-stunned by the cries, and greatly agitated by the sight of the child, whose appearancereminded him of his own daughter, Thirlby motioned the watchman, who hadfollowed him into the room, to bring away the body, and rushed forth. His injunctions were obeyed. The remains of the unfortunate girl werewrapped in a sheet, and deposited in the hand-barrow. The miserablemother followed the watchman to the door, but did not attempt tointerfere with him, and having seen the body of her child disposed of inthe manner above described, turned back. The next moment, a heavy soundproclaimed that she had fallen to the ground, and her shrieks werehushed. Thirlby and Leonard exchanged sad and significant looks, butneither of them went back to see what had happened to her. The watchmanshook his head, and setting the barrow in motion, proceeded along anarrow footpath across the fields. Remarking that he did not take thedirect road to the plague-pit, Leonard called to him, and pointed outthe corner in which it lay. 

"I know where the old plague-pit is, as well as you, " replied thewatchman, "but it has been filled these three weeks. The new pit lies inthis direction. " So saying, he pursued his course, and they presentlyentered a field, in the middle of which lay the plague-pit, as wasevident from the immense mound of clay thrown out of the excavation. 

"That pit is neither so deep nor so wide as the old one, " said thewatchman, "and if the plague goes on at this rate, they will soon haveto dig another--that is, if any one should be left alive to undertakethe job. "

And chuckling as if he had said a good thing, he impelled his barrowforward more quickly. A few seconds brought them near the horriblechasm. It was more than half full, and in all respects resembled theother pit, except that it was somewhat smaller. There was the sameheaving and putrefying mass, --the same ghastly objects of everykind, --the grey-headed old man, the dark-haired maiden, the tenderinfant, --all huddled together. Wheeling the barrow to the edge of thepit, the watchman cast his load into it; and without even tarrying tothrow a handful of soil over it, turned back, and rejoined Thirlby, whohad halted at some distance from the excavation. While the latter wassearching for his purse to reward the watchman, they heard wild shrieksin the adjoining field, and the next moment perceived the wretchedmother running towards them. Guessing her purpose from his formerexperience, Leonard called to the others to stop her, and stretching outhis arms, placed himself in her path. But all their efforts were invain. She darted past them, and though Leonard caught hold of her, shebroke from him, and leaving a fragment of her dress in his grasp, flungherself into the chasm. 

Well knowing that all help was vain, Thirlby placed a few pieces ofmoney in the watchman's hand, and hurried away. He was followed byLeonard, who was equally eager to quit the spot. It so chanced that thepath they had taken led them near the site of the old plague-pit, andLeonard pointed it out to his companion. The latter stopped for amoment, and then, without saying a word, ran quickly towards it. Onreaching the spot, they found that the pit was completely filled up. Thevast cake of clay with which it was covered had swollen and cracked inan extraordinary manner, and emitted such a horrible effluvium that theyboth instantly retreated. 

"And that is the grave of my poor child, " cried Thirlby, halting, andbursting into a passionate flood of tears. "It would have been a fittingresting-place for a guilty wretch like me; but for her it is horrible. "

Allowing time for the violence of his grief to subside, Leonardaddressed a few words of consolation to him, and then tried to turn thecurrent of his thoughts by introducing a different subject. With thisview, he proceeded to detail the piper's mysterious conduct as to thepacket, and concluded by mentioning the piece of gold which Nizza woreas an amulet, and which she fancied must have some connection with herearly history. 

"I have heard of the packet and amulet from Doctor Hodges, " saidThirlby, "and should have visited the piper on my recovery from theplague, but I was all impatience to behold Nizza, and could not brook aninstant's delay. But you know his cottage. We cannot be far from it. "

"Yonder it is, " replied Leonard, pointing to the little habitation, which lay at a field's distance from them--"and we are certain to meetwith him, for I hear the notes of his pipe. "

Nor was he deceived, for as they crossed the field, and approached thecottage, the sounds of a melancholy air played on the pipe became eachinstant more distinct. Before entering the gate, they paused for amoment to listen to the music, and Leonard could not help contrastingthe present neglected appearance of the garden with the neatness itexhibited when he last saw it. It was overgrown with weeds, while thedrooping flowers seemed to bemoan the loss of their mistress. Leonard'sgaze involuntarily wandered in search of the old apple-tree, and hepresently discovered it. It was loaded with fruit, and the rounded sodbeneath it proclaimed the grave of the ill-fated Dame Lucas. 

Satisfied with this survey, Leonard opened the gate, but had no soonerset foot in the garden than the loud barking of a dog was heard, andBell rushed forth. Leonard instantly called to her, and on hearing hisvoice, the little animal instantly changed her angry tones to a gladsomewhine, and, skipping towards him, fawned at his feet. While he stoopedto caress her, the piper, who had been alarmed by the barking, appearedat the door, and called out to know who was there? At the sight of him, Thirlby, who was close behind Leonard, uttered a cry of surprise, andexclaiming, "It is he!" rushed towards him. 

The cry of recognition uttered by the stranger caused the piper to startas if he had received a sudden and violent shock. The ruddy tintinstantly deserted his cheek, and was succeeded by a deadly paleness;his limbs trembled, and he bent forward with a countenance of the utmostanxiety, as if awaiting a confirmation of his fears. When within acouple of yards of him, Thirlby paused, and having narrowly scrutinizedhis features, as if to satisfy himself he was not mistaken, againexclaimed, though in a lower and deeper tone than before, "It is he!"and seizing his arm, pushed him into the house, banging the door toafter him in such a manner as to leave no doubt in the apprentice's mindthat his presence was not desired. Accordingly, though extremely anxiousto hear what passed between them, certain their conversation must relateto Nizza Macascree, Leonard did not attempt to follow, but, accompaniedby Bell, who continued to gambol round him, directed his steps towardsthe grave of Dame Lucas. Here he endeavoured to beguile the time inmeditation, but in spite of his efforts to turn his thoughts into adifferent channel, they perpetually recurred to what he supposed to betaking place inside the house. The extraordinary effect produced byNizza Macascree on Thirlby--the resemblance he had discovered betweenher and some person dear to him--the anxiety he appeared to feel forher, as evinced by his recent search for her--the mysterious connectionwhich clearly subsisted between him and the piper--all thesecircumstances convinced Leonard that Thirlby was, or imagined himself, connected by ties of the closest relationship with the supposed piper'sdaughter. 

Leonard had never been able to discern the slightest resemblance eitherin manner or feature, or in those indescribably slight personalpeculiarities that constitute a family likeness, between Nizza and herreputed father--neither could he now recall any particular resemblancebetween her and Thirlby; still he could not help thinking her beauty andhigh-bred looks savoured more of the latter than the former. He came, therefore, to the conclusion that she must be the offspring of someearly and unfortunate attachment on the part of Thirlby, whose remorsemight naturally be the consequence of his culpable conduct at that time. His sole perplexity was the piper's connection with the affair; but hegot over this difficulty by supposing that Nizza's mother, whoever shewas, must have committed her to Macascree's care when an infant, probably with strict injunctions, which circumstances might rendernecessary, to conceal her even from her father. Such was Leonard'ssolution of the mystery; and feeling convinced that he had made himselfmaster of the stranger's secret, he resolved to give him to understandas much as soon as he beheld him again. 

More than half an hour having elapsed, and Thirlby not coming forth, Leonard began to think sufficient time had been allowed him for privateconference with the piper, and he therefore walked towards the door, andcoughing to announce his approach, raised the latch and entered thehouse. He found the pair seated close together, and conversing in a lowand earnest tone. The piper had completely recovered from his alarm, andseemed perfectly at ease with his companion, while all traces of angerhad disappeared from the countenance of the other. Before them on thetable lay several letters, taken from a packet, the cover of whichLeonard recognised as the one that had been formerly intrusted to him. Amidst them was the miniature of a lady--at least, it appeared so toLeonard, in the hasty glance he caught of it; but he could not be quitesure; for on seeing him, Thirlby closed the case, and placing his handon the piper's mouth, to check his further speech, arose. 

"Forgive my rudeness, " he said to the apprentice; "but I have been sodeeply interested in what I have just heard, that I quite forgot youwere waiting without. I shall remain here some hours longer, but willnot detain you, especially as I am unable to admit you to ourconference. I will meet you at Doctor Hodges's in the evening, and shallhave much to say to you. "

"I can anticipate some part of your communication, " replied Leonard. "You will tell me you have a daughter still living. "

"You are inquisitive, young man, " rejoined Thirlby, sternly. 

"You do me wrong, sir, " replied Leonard. "I have no curiosity as regardsyourself; and if I had, would never lower myself in my own estimation togratify it. Feeling a strong interest in Nizza Macascree, I am naturallyanxious to know whether my suspicion that a near relationship subsistsbetween yourself and her is correct. "

"I cannot enter into further explanation now, " returned Thirlby. "Meetme at Doctor Hodges's this evening, and you shall know more. And nowfarewell. I am in the midst of a deeply-interesting conversation, whichyour presence interrupts. Do not think me rude--do not think meungrateful. My anxiety must plead my excuse. "

"None is necessary, sir, " replied Leonard. "I will no longer place anyrestraint upon you. "

So saying, and taking care not to let Bell out, he passed through thedoor, and closed it after him. Having walked to some distance across thefields, musing on what had just occurred, and scarcely conscious whitherhe was going, he threw himself down on the grass, and fell asleep. Heawoke after some time much refreshed, and finding he was considerablynearer Bishopsgate than any other entrance into the city, determined tomake for it. A few minutes brought him to a row of houses without thewalls, none of which appeared to have escaped infection, and passingthem, he entered the city gate. As he proceeded along the once-crowdedbut now utterly-deserted thoroughfare that opened upon him, he couldscarcely believe he was in a spot which had once been the busiest of thebusy haunts of men--so silent, so desolate did it appear! On reachingCornhill, he found it equally deserted. The Exchange was closed, and asLeonard looked at its barred gates, a saddening train of reflectionpassed through his mind. His head declined upon his breast, and hecontinued lost in a mournful reverie until he was roused by a hand laidupon his shoulder, and starting--for such a salutation at this seasonwas alarming--he looked round, and beheld Solomon Eagle. 

"You are looking upon that structure, " said the enthusiast, "and arethinking how much it is changed. Men who possess boundless richesimagine their power above that of their Maker, and suppose they mayneglect and defy him. But they are mistaken. Where are now the wealthymerchants who used to haunt those courts and chambers?--why do they notcome here as of old?--why do they not buy and sell, and send theirmessengers and ships to the farthest parts of the world? Because theLord hath smitten them and driven them forth--'From the least of themeven to the greatest of them, ' as the prophet Jeremiah saith, 'every onehas been given to covetousness. ' The balances of deceit have been intheir hands. They have cozened their neighbours, and greedily gainedfrom them, and will find it true what the prophet Ezekiel hath written, that 'the Lord will pour out his indignation upon them, and consume themwith the fire of his wrath. ' Yea, I tell you, unless they turn fromtheir evil ways--unless they cast aside the golden idol they nowworship, and set up the Holy One of Israel in its stead, a fire will besent to consume them, and that pile which they have erected as a templeto their god shall be burnt to the ground. "

Leonard's heart was too full to make any answer, and the enthusiast, after a brief pause, again addressed him. "Have you seen Doctor Hodgespass this way? I am in search of him. "

"On what account?" asked Leonard anxiously. "His advice, I trust, is notneeded on behalf of any one in whom I am interested. "

"No matter, " replied Solomon Eagle, in a sombre tone; "have you seenhim?"

"I have not, " rejoined the apprentice; "but he is probably at SaintPaul's. "

"I have just left the cathedral, and was told he had proceeded to somehouse near Cornhill, " rejoined the enthusiast. 

"If you have been there, you can perhaps tell me how my master's porter, Blaize Shotterel, is getting on, " said Leonard. 

"I can, " replied the enthusiast. "I heard one of the chirurgeons saythat Doctor Hodges had pronounced him in a fair way of recovery. But Imust either find the doctor or go elsewhere. Farewell!"

"I will go with you in search of him, " said Leonard. 

"No, no; you must not--shall not, " cried Solomon Eagle. 

"Wherefore not?" asked the apprentice. 

"Do not question me, but leave me, " rejoined the enthusiast. 

"Do you know aught of Amabel--of her retreat?" persisted Leonard, whohad a strange misgiving that the enthusiast's errand in some wayreferred to her. 

"I do, " replied Solomon Eagle, gloomily; "but I again advise you not topress me further. "

"Answer me one question at least, " cried Leonard. "Is she with the Earlof Rochester?"

"She is, " replied Solomon Eagle; "but I shall allay your fears in thatrespect when I tell you she is sick of the plague. "

Leonard heard nothing more, for, uttering a wild shriek, he fell to theground insensible. He was aroused to consciousness by a sudden sense ofstrangulation, and opening his eyes, beheld two dark figures bendingover him, one of whom was kneeling on his chest. A glance showed himthat this person was Chowles; and instantly comprehending what was thematter, and aware that the coffin-maker was stripping him previously tothrowing him into the dead-cart, which was standing hard by, he criedaloud, and struggled desperately to set himself free. Little oppositionwas offered; for, on hearing the cry, Chowles quitted his hold, andretreating to a short distance, exclaimed, with a look of surprise, "Why, the fellow is not dead, after all!"

"I am neither dead, nor likely to die, as you shall find to your cost, rascal, if you do not restore me the clothes you have robbed me of, "cried Leonard, furiously. And chancing to perceive a fork, dropped byChowles in his hasty retreat, he snatched it up, and, brandishing itover his head, advanced towards him. Thus threatened, Chowles tossed hima rich suit of livery. 

"These are not mine, " said the apprentice, gazing at the habiliments. 

"They are better than your own, " replied Chowles, "and therefore youought to be glad of the exchange. But give me them back again. I have nointention of making you a present. "

"This is the livery of the Earl of Rochester, " cried Leonard. 

"To be sure it is, " replied Chowles, with a ghastly smile. "One of hisservants is just dead. "

"Where is the profligate noble?" cried Leonard, eagerly. 

"There is the person who owned these clothes, " replied Chowles, pointingto the dead-cart. "You had better ask him. "

"Where is the Earl of Rochester, I say, villain?" cried Leonard, menacingly. 

"How should I know?" rejoined Chowles. "Here are your clothes, " headded, pushing them towards him. 

"I will have an answer, " cried Leonard. 

"Not from me, " replied Chowles. And hastily snatching up the livery, heput the cart in motion, and proceeded on his road. Leonard would havefollowed him, but the state of his attire did not permit him to do so. Having dressed himself, he hastened to the cathedral, where he soonfound the attendant who had charge of Blaize. 

"Doctor Hodges has been with him, " said the man, in reply to hisinquiries after the porter, "and has good hopes of him. But the patientis not entirely satisfied with the treatment he has received, and wishesto try some remedies of his own. Were his request granted, all wouldsoon be over with him. "

"That I am sure of, " replied Leonard. "But let us go to him. "

"You must not heed his complaints, " returned the attendant. "I assureyou he is doing as well as possible; but he is so dreadfully frightenedat a trifling operation which Doctor Hodges finds it necessary toperform upon him, that we have been obliged to fasten him to the bed. "

"Indeed!" exclaimed Leonard, suspiciously. "Has Judith Malmayns had nohand in this arrangement?"

"Judith Malmayns has been absent during the whole of the afternoon, "said the man, "and another nurse has taken her place in Saint Faith's. She has never been near Blaize since I have had charge of him. "

By this time they had reached the pallet in which the porter was laid. His eyes and a small portion of his snub-nose were alone visible, hishead being still enveloped by the linen cloth, while his mouth wascovered by blankets. He looked so anxiously at the apprentice, that thelatter removed the covering from his mouth, and enabled him to speak. 

"I am glad to find you are getting on so well, " said Leonard, in acheerful tone. "Doctor Hodges has been with you, I understand?"

"He has, " groaned Blaize; "but he has done me no good--none whatever. Icould doctor myself much better, if I might be allowed; for I know everyremedy that has been prescribed for the plague; but he would adopt nonethat I mentioned to him. I wanted him to place a hot loaf, fresh fromthe oven, to the tumour, to draw it; but he would not consent. Then Iasked for a cataplasm, composed of radish-roots, mustard-seed, onionsand garlic roasted, mithridate, salt, and soot from a chimney where woodonly has been burnt. This he liked no better than the first. Next, Ibegged for an ale posset with pimpernel soaked in it, assuring him thatby frequently drinking such a mixture, Secretary Naunton drew theinfection from his very heart. But the doctor would have none of it, andseemed to doubt the fact. "

"What did he do?" inquired Leonard. 

"He applied oil of St. John's wort to the tumour, " replied Blaize, witha dismal groan, and said, "if the scar did not fall off, he mustcauterize it. Oh! I shall never be able to bear the pain of theoperation. "

"Recollect your life is at stake, " rejoined Leonard. "You must eithersubmit to it or die. "

"I know I must, " replied Blaize, with a prolonged groan; "but it is aterrible alternative. "

"You will not find the operation so painful as you imagine, " rejoinedLeonard; "and you know I speak from personal experience. "

"You give me great comfort, " said Blaize. "And so you really think Ishall get better?"

"I have no doubt of it, if you keep up your spirits, " replied Leonard. "The worst is evidently over. Behave like a man. "

"I will try to do so, " rejoined Blaize. "I have been told that if acircle is drawn with a blue sapphire round a plague-blotch, it will falloff. Couldn't we just try the experiment?"

"It will not do to rely upon it, " observed the attendant, with a smile. "You will find a small knob of red-hot iron, which we call the 'button, 'much more efficacious. "

"Oh dear! oh dear!" exclaimed Blaize, "I already feel that dreadfulbutton burning into my flesh. "

"On the contrary, you won't feel it at all, " replied the attendant. "Theiron only touches the point of the tumour, in which there is nosensibility. "

"In that case, I don't care how soon the operation is performed, "replied Blaize. 

"Doctor Hodges will choose his own time for it, " said the attendant. "Inthe mean time, here is a cup of barley-broth for you. You will find itdo you good. "

While the man applied the cup to the poor porter's lips--for he wouldnot unloose the straps, for fear of mischief--Leonard, who was sickenedby the terrible scene around him, took his departure, and quitted thecathedral by the great western entrance. Seating himself on one of thegreat blocks of stone left there by the workmen employed in repairingthe cathedral, but who had long since abandoned their task, he thoughtover all that had recently occurred. Raising his eyes at length, helooked toward the cathedral. The oblique rays of the sun had quitted thecolumns of the portico, which looked cold and grey, while the roof andtowers were glittering in light. In ten minutes more, only the summit ofthe central tower caught the last reflection of the declining orb. Leonard watched the rosy gleam till it disappeared, and then steadfastlyregarded the reverend pile as its hue changed from grey to black, untilat length each pinnacle and buttress, each battlement and tower, waslost in one vast indistinct mass. Night had fallen upon the city--anight destined to be more fatal than any that had preceded it; and yetit was so calm, so beautiful, so clear, that it was scarcely possible toimagine that it was unhealthy. The destroying angel was, however, fearfully at work. Hundreds were falling beneath his touch; and asLeonard wondered how many miserable wretches were at that momentreleased from suffering, it crossed him like an icy chill, that amongthe number might be Amabel. So forcibly was he impressed by this idea, that he fell on his knees and prayed aloud. 

He was aroused by hearing the ringing of a bell, which announced theapproach of the dead-cart, and presently afterwards the gloomy vehicleapproached from Ludgate-hill, and moved slowly towards the portico ofthe cathedral, where it halted. A great number of the dead were placedwithin it, and the driver, ringing his bell, proceeded in the directionof Cheapside. A very heavy dew had fallen; for as Leonard put his handto his clothes, they felt damp, and his long hair was filled withmoisture. Reproaching himself with having needlessly exposed himself torisk, he was about to walk away, when he heard footsteps at a littledistance, and looking in the direction of the sound, perceived the tallfigure of Thirlby. Calling to him, the other, who appeared to be inhaste, halted for a moment, and telling the apprentice he was going toDoctor Hodges's, desired him to accompany him thither, and went on. 

 * * * * *

III. 

THE HOUSE IN NICHOLAS-LANE. 

On reaching Watling-street, Leonard and his companion found DoctorHodges was from home. This did not much surprise the apprentice, afterthe information he had received from Solomon Eagle, but Thirlby wasgreatly disappointed, and eagerly questioned the porter as to theprobable time of his master's return. The man replied that it was quiteuncertain, adding, "He has been in since you were last here, and hasseen Blaize. He had not been gone to the cathedral many minutes when agentleman arrived, desiring his instant attendance upon a young womanwho was sick of the plague. "

"Did you hear her name?" asked Leonard and Thirlby, in a breath. 

"No, " replied the porter, "neither did I obtain any informationrespecting her from the gentleman, who appeared in great distress. But Iobserved that my master, on his return, looked much surprised at seeinghim, and treated him with a sort of cold respect. "

"Was the gentleman young or old?" demanded Leonard, hastily. 

"As far as I noticed, " replied the porter, "for he kept his face coveredwith a handkerchief, I should say he was young--very young. "

"You are sure it was not Lord Rochester?" pursued Leonard. 

"How should I be sure of it, " rejoined the porter, "since I have neverseen his lordship that I am aware of? But I will tell you all thathappened, and you can judge for yourselves. My master, as I have justsaid, on seeing the stranger, looked surprised and angry, and bowinggravely, conducted him to his study, taking care to close the door afterhim. I did not, of course, hear what passed, but the interview was briefenough, and the gentleman, issuing forth, said, as he quitted the room, 'You will not fail to come?' To which my master replied, 'Certainly not, on the terms I have mentioned. ' With this, the gentleman hurried out ofthe house. Shortly afterwards the doctor came out, and said to me, 'I amgoing to attend a young woman who is sick of the plague, and may beabsent for some time. If Mr. Thirlby or Leonard Holt should call, detainthem till my return. '"

"My heart tells me that the young woman he is gone to visit is no otherthan Amabel, " said Leonard Holt, sorrowfully. 

"I suspect it is Nizza Macascree, " cried Thirlby. "Which way did yourmaster take?"

"I did not observe, " replied the porter, "but he told me he should crossLondon Bridge. "

"I will go into Southwark in quest of him, " said Thirlby. "Every momentis of consequence now. "

"You had better stay where you are, " replied the old porter. "It is thesurest way to meet with him. "

Thirlby, however, was too full of anxiety to listen to reason, and hisimpatience producing a corresponding effect upon Leonard, though from adifferent motive, they set forth together. "If I fail to find him, youmay expect me back ere long, " were Thirlby's last words to the porter. Hurrying along Watling-street, and taking the first turning on theright, he descended to Thames-street, and made the best of his waytowards the bridge. Leonard followed him closely, and they pursued theirrapid course in silence. By the time they reached the north gate of thebridge, Leonard found his strength failing him, and halting at one ofthe openings between the tall houses overlooking the river, where therewas a wooden bench for the accommodation of passengers, he sank upon it, and begged Thirlby to go on, saying he would return to Watling-street assoon as he recovered from his exhaustion. Thirlby did not attempt todissuade him from his purpose, but instantly disappeared. 

The night, it has before been remarked, was singularly beautiful. It wasalmost as light as day, for the full harvest moon (alas! there was noharvest for it to smile upon!) having just risen, revealed every objectwith perfect distinctness. The bench on which Leonard was seated lay onthe right side of the bridge, and commanded a magnificent reach of theriver, that flowed beneath like a sheet of molten silver. The apprenticegazed along its banks, and noticed the tall spectral-looking houses onthe right, until his eye finally settled on the massive fabric of SaintPaul's, the roof and towers of which rose high above the lesserstructures. His meditations were suddenly interrupted by the opening ofa window in the house near him, while a loud splash in the water toldthat a body had been thrown into it. He turned away with a shudder, andat the same moment perceived a watchman, with a halberd upon hisshoulder, advancing slowly towards him from the Southwark side of thebridge. Pausing as he drew near the apprentice, the watchmancompassionately inquired whether he was sick, and being answered in thenegative, was about to pass on, when Leonard, fancying he recognised hisvoice, stopped him. 

"We have met somewhere before, friend, " he said, "though where, or underwhat circumstances, I cannot at this moment call to mind. "

"Not unlikely, " returned the other, roughly, "but the chances areagainst our meeting again. "

Leonard heaved a sigh at this remark. "I now recollect where I met you, friend, " he remarked. "It was at Saint Paul's, when I was in search ofmy master's daughter, who had been carried off by the Earl of Rochester. But you were then in the garb of a smith. "

"I recollect the circumstance, too, now you remind me of it, " repliedthe other. "Your name is Leonard Holt as surely as mine is RobertRainbird. I recollect, also, that you offended me about a dog belongingto the piper's pretty daughter, Nizza Macascree, which I was about todestroy in obedience to the Lord Mayor's commands. However, I bear nomalice, and if I did, this is not a time to rip up old quarrels. "

"You are right, friend, " returned Leonard. "The few of us left ought tobe in charity with each other. "

"Truly, ought we, " rejoined Rainbird. "For my own part, I have seen somuch misery within the last few weeks, that my disposition is whollychanged. I was obliged to abandon my old occupation of a smith, becausemy master died of the plague, and there was no one else to employ me. Ihave therefore served as a watchman, and in twenty days have stood atthe doors of more than twenty houses. It would freeze your blood were Ito relate the scenes I have witnessed. "

"It might have done formerly, " replied Leonard; "but my feelings are asmuch changed as your own. I have had the plague twice myself. "

"Then, indeed, you _can_ speak, " replied Rainbird. "Thank God, I havehitherto escaped it! Ah! these are terrible times--terrible times! Theworst that ever London knew. Although I have been hitherto miraculouslypreserved myself, I am firmly persuaded no one will escape. "

"I am almost inclined to agree with you, " replied Leonard. 

"For the last week the distemper has raged fearfully--fearfully, indeed, " said Rainbird; "but yesterday and to-day have far exceeded allthat have gone before. The distempered have died quicker than cattle ofthe murrain. I visited upwards of a hundred houses in the Borough thismorning, and only found ten persons alive; and out of those ten, notone, I will venture to say, is alive now. It will, in truth, be a mercyif they are gone. There were distracted mothers raving over theirchildren, --a young husband lamenting his wife, --two little childrenweeping over their dead parents, with none to attend them, none to feedthem, --an old man mourning over his son cut off in his prime. In short, misery and distress in their worst form, --the streets ringing withshrieks and groans, and the numbers of dead so great that it wasimpossible to carry them off. You remember Solomon Eagle's prophecy?"

"Perfectly, " replied Leonard; "and I lament to see its fulfilment. "

"'The streets shall be covered with grass, and the living shall not beable to bury their dead, '--so it ran, " said Rainbird. "And it has cometo pass. Not a carriage of any description, save the dead-cart, is to beseen in the broadest streets of London, which are now as green as thefields without her walls, and as silent as the grave itself. Terribletimes, as I said before--terrible times! The dead are rotting in heapsin the courts, in the alleys, in the very houses, and no one to removethem. What will be the end of it all? What will become of this greatcity?"

"It is not difficult to foresee what will become of it, " repliedLeonard, "unless it pleases the Lord to stay his vengeful arm. Andsomething whispers in my ear that we are now at the worst. The scourgecannot exceed its present violence without working our ruin; and deeplyas we have sinned, little as we repent, I cannot bring myself to believethat God will sweep his people entirely from the face of the earth. "

"I dare not hope otherwise, " rejoined Rainbird, "though I would fain doso. I discern no symptoms of abatement of the distemper, but, on thecontrary, an evident increase of malignity, and such is the opinion ofall I have spoken with on the subject. Chowles told me he buried twohundred more yesterday than he had ever done before, and yet he did notcarry a third of the dead to the plague-pit. He is a strange fellow thatChowles. But for his passion for his horrible calling there is nonecessity for him to follow it, for he is now one of the richest men inLondon. "

"He must have amassed his riches by robbery, then, " remarked Leonard. 

"True, " returned Rainbird. "He helps himself without scruple to theclothes, goods, and other property, of all who die of the pestilence;and after ransacking their houses, conveys his plunder in the dead-cartto his own dwelling. "

"In Saint Paul's?" asked Leonard. 

"No--a large house in Nicholas-lane, once belonging to a wealthymerchant, who perished, with his family, of the plague, " repliedRainbird. "He has filled it from cellar to garret with the spoil he hasobtained. "

"And how has he preserved it?" inquired the apprentice. 

"The plague has preserved it for him, " replied Rainbird. "The fewauthorities who now act have, perhaps, no knowledge of his proceedings;or if they have, have not cared to interfere, awaiting a more favourableseason, if it should ever arrive, to dispossess him of his hoard, andpunish him for his delinquencies; while, in the mean time, they areglad, on any terms, to avail themselves of his services as a burier. Other people do not care to meddle with him, and the most daring robberwould be afraid to touch infected money or clothes. "

"If you are going towards Nicholas-lane, " said Leonard, as if struckwith a sudden idea, "and will point out to me the house in question, youwill do me a favour. "

Rainbird nodded assent, and they walked on together towardsFish-street-hill. Ascending it, and turning off on the right, theyentered Great Eastcheap, but had not proceeded far when they wereobliged to turn back, the street being literally choked up with a pileof carcasses deposited there by the burier's assistants. Shaping theircourse along Gracechurch-street, they turned off into Lombard-street, and as Leonard gazed at the goldsmiths' houses on either side, whichwere all shut up, with the fatal red cross on the doors, he could nothelp remarking to his companion, "The plague has not spared any of theseon account of their riches. "

"True, " replied the other; "and of the thousands who used formerly tothrong this street not one is left. Wo to London!--wo!--wo!"

Leonard echoed the sentiment, and fell into a melancholy train ofreflection. It has been more than once remarked that the particular daynow under consideration was the one in which the plague exercised itsfiercest dominion over the city; and though at first its decline was asimperceptible as the gradual diminution of the day after the longest haspassed, yet still the alteration began. On that day, as if death hadknown that his power was to be speedily arrested, he sharpened hisfellest arrows, and discharged them with unerring aim. To pursue thecourse of the destroyer from house to house--to show with whatunrelenting fury he assailed his victims--to describe theirsufferings--to number the dead left within their beds, thrown into thestreets, or conveyed to the plague-pits--would be to present a narrativeas painful as revolting. On this terrible night it was as hot as if ithad been the middle of June. No air was stirring, and the silence was soprofound, that a slight noise was audible at a great distance. Hushed inthe seemingly placid repose lay the great city, while hundreds of itsinhabitants were groaning in agony, or breathing their last sigh. 

On reaching the upper end of Nicholas-lane, Rainbird stood still for amoment, and pointed out a large house on the right, just below the oldchurch dedicated to the saint from which the thoroughfare took its name. They were about to proceed towards it, when the smith again paused, andcalled Leonard's attention to two figures quickly advancing from thelower end of the street. As the apprentice and his companion stood inthe shade, they could not be seen, while the two persons, being in themoonlight, were fully revealed. One of them, it was easy to perceive, was Chowles. He stopped before the door of his dwelling and unfastenedit, and while he was thus occupied, the other person turned his face soas to catch the full radiance of the moon, disclosing the features ofSir Paul Parravicin. Before Leonard recovered from the surprise intowhich he was thrown by this unexpected discovery, they had entered thehouse. 

He then hurried forward, but, to his great disappointment, found thedoor locked. Anxious to get into the house without alarming those whohad preceded him, he glanced at the windows; but the shutters wereclosed and strongly barred. While hesitating what to do, Rainbird cameup, and guessing his wishes, told him there was a door at the back ofthe house by which he might probably gain admittance. Accordingly theyhastened down a passage skirting the churchyard, which brought them to anarrow alley lying between Nicholas-lane and Abchurch-lane. Tracking itfor about twenty yards, Rainbird paused before a small yard-door, andtrying the latch, found it yielded to his touch. 

Crossing the yard, they came to another door. It was locked, and thoughthey could have easily burst it open, they preferred having recourse toan adjoining window, the shutter of which, being carelessly fastened, was removed without noise or difficulty. In another moment they gained asmall dark room on the ground-floor, whence they issued into a passage, where, to their great joy, they found a lighted lantern placed on achair. Leonard hastily possessed himself of it, and was about to enter aroom on the left when his companion arrested him. 

"Before we proceed further, " he said in a low voice, "I must know whatyou are about to do?"

"My purpose will be explained in a word, " replied the apprentice in thesame tone. "I suspect that Nizza Macascree is confined here by Sir PaulParravicin and Chowles, and if it turns out I am right in my conjecture, I propose to liberate her. Will you help me?"

"Humph!" exclaimed Rainbird, "I don't much fancy the job. However, sinceI am here, I'll not go back. I am curious to see the coffin-maker'shoards. Look at yon heap of clothes. There are velvet doublets andsilken hose enow to furnish wardrobes for a dozen court gallants. Andyet, rich as the stuffs are, I would not put the best of them on for allthe wealth of London. "

"Nor I, " replied Leonard. "I shall make free, however, with a sword, " headded, selecting one from the heap. "I may need a weapon. "

"I require nothing more than my halberd, " observed the smith; "and Iwould advise you to throw away that velvet scabbard; it is a certainharbour for infection. "

Leonard did not neglect the caution, and pushing open the door, theyentered a large room which resembled an upholsterer's shop, beingliterally crammed with chairs, tables, cabinets, moveable cupboards, bedsteads, curtains, and hangings, all of the richest description. 

"What I heard is true, " observed Rainbird, gazing around inastonishment. "Chowles must have carried off every thing he could layhands upon. What can he do with all that furniture?"

"What the miser does with his store, " replied Leonard: "feast his eyeswith it, but never use it. "

They then proceeded to the next room. It was crowded with books, looking-glasses, and pictures; many of them originally of great value, but greatly damaged by the careless manner in which they were piled oneupon another. A third apartment was filled with flasks of wine, withcasks probably containing spirits, and boxes, the contents of which theydid not pause to examine. A fourth contained male and femalehabiliments, spread out like the dresses in a theatrical wardrobe. Mostof these garments were of the gayest and costliest description, and ofthe latest fashion, and Leonard sighed as he looked upon them, andthought of the fate of those they had so lately adorned. 

"There is contagion enough in those clothes to infect a whole city, "said Rainbird, who regarded them with different feelings. "I have half amind to set fire to them. "

"It were a good deed to do so, " returned Leonard; "but it must not bedone now. Let us go upstairs. These are the only rooms below. "

Accordingly, they ascended the staircase, and entered chamber afterchamber, all of which were as full of spoil as those they had justvisited; but they could find no one, nor was there any symptom that thehouse was tenanted. They next stood still within the gallery, andlistened intently for some sound to reveal those they sought, but allwas still and silent as the grave. 

"We cannot be mistaken, " observed Leonard. "It is clear this house isthe receptacle for Chowles's plunder. Besides, we should not have foundthe lantern burning if they had gone forth again. No, no; they must behidden somewhere, and I will not quit the place till I find them. " Theirsearch, however, was fruitless. They mounted to the garrets, openedevery door, and glanced into every corner. Still, no one was to be seen. 

"I begin to think Nizza cannot be here, " said the apprentice; "but I amresolved not to depart without questioning Chowles on the subject. "

"You must find him first, " rejoined Rainbird. "If he is anywhere, hemust be in the cellar, for we have been into every room in this part ofthe house. For my own part, I think you had better abandon the searchaltogether. No good will come of it. "

Leonard, however, was not to be dissuaded, and they went downstairs. Ashort flight of stone steps brought them to a spacious kitchen, but itwas quite empty, and seemed to have been long disused. They then peepedinto the scullery adjoining, and were about to retrace their steps, whenRainbird plucked Leonard's sleeve to call attention to a gleam of lightissuing from a door which stood partly ajar, in a long narrow passageleading apparently to the cellars. 

"They are there, " he said, in a whisper. 

"So I see, " replied Leonard, in the same tone. And raising his finger tohis lips in token of silence, he stole forward on the points of his feetand cautiously opened the door. 

At the further end of the cellar--for such it was--knelt Chowles, examining with greedy eyes the contents of a large chest, which, fromthe hasty glance that Leonard caught of it, appeared to be filled withgold and silver plate. A link stuck against the wall threw a stronglight over the scene, and showed that the coffin-maker was alone. AsLeonard advanced, the sound of his footsteps caught Chowles's ear, anduttering a cry of surprise and alarm, he let fall the lid of the chest, and sprang to his feet. 

"What do you want?" he cried, looking uneasily round, as if in search ofsome weapon. "Are you come to rob me?"

"No, " replied Leonard; "neither are we come to reclaim the plunder youhave taken from others. We are come in search of Nizza Macascree. "

"Then you have come on a fool's errand, " replied Chowles, regaining hiscourage, "for she is not here. I know nothing of her. "

"That is false, " replied Leonard. "You have just conducted Sir PaulParravicin to her. "

This assertion on the part of the apprentice, which he thought himselfjustified under the circumstances in making, produced a strong effect onChowles. He appeared startled and confounded. "What right have you toplay the spy upon me thus?" he faltered. 

"The right that every honest man possesses to check the designs of thewicked, " replied Leonard. "You admit she is here. Lead me to herhiding-place without more ado. "

"If you know where it is, " rejoined Chowles, who now perceived the trickthat had been practised upon him, "you will not want me to conduct youto it. Neither Nizza nor Sir Paul Parravicin are here. "

"That is false, prevaricating scoundrel, " cried Leonard. "My companionand I saw you enter the house with your profligate employer. And as wegained admittance a few minutes after you, it is certain no one can haveleft it. Lead me to Nizza's retreat instantly, or I will cut yourthroat. " And seizing Chowles by the collar, he held the point of hissword to his breast. 

"Use no violence, " cried Chowles, struggling to free himself, "and Iwill take you wherever you please. This way--this way. " And he motionedas if he would take them upstairs. 

"Do not think to mislead me, villain, " cried Leonard, tightening hisgrasp. "We have searched every room in the upper part of the house, andthough we have discovered the whole of your ill-gotten hoards, we havefound nothing else. No one is there. "

"Well, then, " rejoined Chowles, "since the truth must out, Sir Paul isin the next house. But it is his own abode. I have nothing to do withit, nothing whatever. He is accountable for his own actions, and youwill be accountable to _him_ if you intrude upon his privacy. Releaseme, and I swear to conduct you to him. But you will take theconsequences of your rashness upon yourself. I only go upon compulsion. "

"I am ready to take any consequences, " replied Leonard, resolutely. 

"Come along, then, " said Chowles, pointing down the passage. 

"You mean us no mischief?" cried Leonard, suspiciously. "If you do, theattempt will cost you your life. "

Chowles made no answer, but moved along the passage as quickly asLeonard, who kept fast hold of him and walked by his side, would permit. Presently they reached a door, which neither the apprentice nor Rainbirdhad observed before, and which admitted them into an extensive vault, with a short staircase at the further end, communicating with a passagethat Leonard did not require to be informed was in another house. 

Here Chowles paused. "I think it right to warn you you are running intoa danger from which ere long you will be glad to draw back, young man, "he said, to the apprentice. "As a friend, I advise you to proceed nofurther in the matter. "

"Waste no more time in talking, " cried Leonard, fiercely, and forcinghim forward as he spoke, "where is Nizza? Lead me to her without aninstant's delay. "

"A wilful man must have his way, " returned Chowles, hurrying up the mainstaircase. "It is not my fault if any harm befalls you. "

They had just gained the landing when a door on the right was suddenlythrown open, and Sir Paul Parravicin stood before them. He lookedsurprised and startled at the sight of the apprentice, and angrilydemanded his business. "I am come for Nizza Macascree, " replied Leonard, "whom you and Chowles have detained against her will. "

Parravicin glanced sternly and inquiringly at the coffin-maker. 

"I have protested to him that she is not here, Sir Paul, " said thelatter, "but he will not believe me, and has compelled me, by threats oftaking my life, to bring him and his companion to you. "

"Then take them back again, " rejoined Parravicin, turning haughtily uponhis heel. 

"That answer will not suffice, Sir Paul, " cried Leonard--"I will notdepart without her. "

"How!" exclaimed the knight, drawing his sword. "Do you dare to intrudeupon my presence? Begone! or I will punish your presumption. " And heprepared to attack the apprentice. 

"Advance a footstep, " rejoined Leonard, who had never relinquished hisgrasp of Chowles, "and I pass my sword through this man's body. Speak, villain, " he continued, in a tone so formidable that the coffin-makershook with apprehension--"is she here or not?" Chowles gazed from him tothe knight, whose deportment was equally menacing and appearedbewildered with terror. 

"It is needless, " said Leonard, "your looks answer for you. She _is_. "

"Yes, yes, I confess she is, " replied Chowles. 

"You hear what he says, Sir Paul, " remarked Leonard. 

"His fears would make him assert anything, " rejoined Parravicin, disdainfully. "If you do not depart instantly, I will drive you forth. "

"Sir Paul Parravicin, " rejoined Leonard, in an authoritative tone, "Icommand you in the king's name, to deliver up this girl. "

Parravicin laughed scornfully. "The king has no authority here, " hesaid. 

"Pardon me, Sir Paul, " rejoined Chowles, who began to be seriouslyalarmed at his own situation, and eagerly grasped at the opportunitythat offered of extricating himself from it--"pardon me. If it is theking's pleasure she should be removed, it materially alters the case, and I can be no party to her detention. "

"Both you and your employer will incur his majesty's severestdispleasure, by detaining her after this notice, " remarked Leonard. 

"Before I listen to the young man's request, let him declare that it ishis intention to deliver her up to the king, " rejoined Parravicin, coldly. 

"It is my intention to deliver her up to one who has the best right totake charge of her, " returned Leonard. 

"You mean her father, " sneered Parravicin. 

"Ay, but not the person you suppose to be her father, " replied Leonard. "An important discovery has been made respecting her parentage. "

"Indeed!" exclaimed Parravicin, with a look of surprise. "Who has thehonour to be her father?"

"A gentleman named Thirlby, " replied Leonard. 

"What!" cried Parravicin, starting, and turning pale. "Did you sayThirlby?"

The apprentice reiterated his assertion. Parravicin uttered a deepgroan, and pressed his hand forcibly against his brow for some moments, during which the apprentice watched him narrowly. He then controlledhimself by a powerful effort, and returned his sword to its scabbard. 

"Come into this room, young man, " he said to the apprentice, "and letyour companion remain outside with Chowles. Fear nothing. I intend youno injury. "

"I do not distrust you, " replied Leonard, "and if I did, should have noapprehension. " And motioning Rainbird to remain where he was, he enteredthe room with the knight, who instantly closed the door. 

Parravicin's first proceeding was to question him as to his reasons forsupposing Nizza to be Thirlby's daughter, and clearly perceiving thedeep interest his interrogator took in the matter, and the favourablechange that, from some unknown cause, had been wrought in hissentiments, the apprentice did not think fit to hide anything from him. Parravicin's agitation increased as he listened to the recital; and atlast, overcome by emotion, he sank into a chair, and covered his facewith his hands. Recovering himself in a short time, he arose, and beganto pace the chamber to and fro. 

"What I have told you seems to have disturbed you, Sir Paul, " remarkedLeonard. "May I ask the cause of your agitation?"

"No, man, you may not, " replied Parravicin, angrily. And then suddenlychecking himself, he added, with forced calmness, "And so you partedwith Mr. Thirlby on London Bridge, and you think he will return toDoctor Hodges's residence in Watling-street. "

"I am sure of it, " replied Leonard. 

"I must see him without delay, " rejoined Parravicin. 

"I will take you to him, " remarked Leonard; "but first I must seeNizza. "

Parravicin walked to a table, on which stood a small silver bell, andringing it, the summons was immediately answered by an old woman. He wasabout to deliver a message to her, when the disturbed expression of hercountenance struck him, and he hastily inquired the cause of it. 

"You must not see the young lady to-night, Sir Paul, " said the oldwoman. 

"Why not?" demanded the knight, hastily. "Why not?"

"Because--but you frighten me so that I dare not speak, " was the answer. 

"I will frighten you still more if you keep me in this state ofsuspense, " rejoined Parravicin, furiously. "Is she ill?"

"I fear she has got the plague, " returned the old woman. "Now you cansee her if you think proper. "

"_I_ will see her, " said Leonard. "I have no fear of infection. "

The old woman looked hard at Parravicin, as if awaiting his orders. "Yes, yes, you can take him to her room, " said the knight, who seemedcompletely overpowered by the intelligence, "if he chooses to gothither. But why do you suppose it is the plague?"

"One cannot well be deceived in a seizure of that kind, " replied the oldwoman, shaking her head. 

"I thought the disorder never attacked the same person twice, " saidParravicin. 

"I myself am an instance to the contrary, " replied Leonard. 

"And, as you have twice recovered, there may be a chance for Nizza, "said Parravicin. "This old woman will take you to her. I will hasten toDoctor Hodges's residence, and if I should fail in meeting him, will notrest till I procure assistance elsewhere. Do not leave her till Ireturn. "

Leonard readily gave a promise to the desired effect, and accompanyinghim to the door, told Rainbird what had happened. The latter agreed towait below to render any assistance that might be required, and wentdownstairs with Parravicin and Chowles. The two latter instantly quittedthe house together, and hastened to Watling-street. 

With a beating heart, Leonard then followed the old woman to Nizza'schamber. They had to pass through a small anteroom, the door of whichwas carefully locked. The suite of apartments occupied by the captivegirl were exquisitely and luxuriously furnished, and formed a strikingcontrast to the rest of the house. The air was loaded with perfumes;choice pictures adorned the walls; and the tables were covered withbooks and china ornaments. The windows, however, were strictly barred, and every precaution appeared to be taken to prevent an attempt atescape. Leonard cast an anxious look round as he entered the anteroom, and its luxurious air filled him with anxiety. His conductress, however, did not allow him time for reflection, but led him into another room, still more richly furnished than the first, and lighted by a largecoloured lamp, that shed a warm glow around it. An old dwarfed African, in a fantastic dress, and with a large scimetar stuck in his girdle, stepped forward on their approach, and shook his head significantly. 

"He is dumb, " said the old woman, "but his gestures are easy to beunderstood. He means that Nizza is worse. "

Leonard heaved a deep sigh. Passing into a third room, they perceivedthe poor girl stretched on a couch placed in a recess at one side. Sheheard their footsteps, and without raising her head, or looking towardsthem, said, in a weak but determined voice--"Tell your master I will seehim no more. The plague has again attacked me, and I am glad of it, forit will deliver me from him. It will be useless to offer me anyremedies, for I will not take them. "

"It is not Sir Paul Parravicin, " replied the old woman. "I have broughta stranger, with whose name I am unacquainted, to see you. "

"Then you have done very wrong, " replied Nizza. "I will see no one. "

"Not even me, Nizza?" asked Leonard, advancing. The poor girl started atthe sound of his voice, and raising herself on one arm, looked wildlytowards him. As soon as she was satisfied that her fancy did not deceiveher, she uttered a cry of delight, and falling backwards on the couch, became insensible. 

Leonard and the old woman instantly flew to the poor girl's assistance, and restoratives being applied, she speedily opened her eyes and fixedthem tenderly and inquiringly on the apprentice. Before replying to hermute interrogatories, Leonard requested the old woman to leave them--anorder very reluctantly obeyed--and as soon as they were left alone, proceeded to explain, as briefly as he could, the manner in which he haddiscovered her place of captivity. Nizza listened to his recital withthe greatest interest, and though evidently suffering acute pain, uttered no complaint, but endeavoured to assume an appearance ofcomposure and tranquillity. 

"I must now tell you all that has befallen me since we last met, " shesaid, as he concluded. "I will not dwell upon the persecution I enduredfrom the king, whose passion increased in proportion to my resistance--Iwill not dwell upon the arts, the infamous arts, used to induce me tocomply with his wishes--neither will I dwell upon the desperate measureI had determined to resort to, if driven to the last strait--nor would Imention the subject at all, except to assure you I escaped contaminationwhere few escaped it. "

"You need not give me any such assurance, " remarked Leonard. 

"While I was thus almost driven to despair, " pursued Nizza, "a youngfemale who attended me, and affected to deplore my situation, offered tohelp me to escape. I eagerly embraced the offer; and one night, havingpurloined, as she stated, the key of the chamber in which I was lodged, she conducted me by a back staircase into the palace-gardens. Thinkingmyself free, I warmly thanked my supposed deliverer, who hurried metowards a gate, at which she informed me a man was waiting to guide meto a cottage about a mile from the city, where I should be in perfectsafety. "

"I see the device, " cried Leonard. "But, why--why did you trust her?"

"What could I do?" rejoined Nizza. "To stay was as bad as to fly, andmight have been worse. At all events, I had no distrust. My companionopened the gate, and called to some person without. It was profoundlydark; but I could perceive a carriage, or some other vehicle, at alittle distance. Alarmed at the sight, I whispered my fears to mycompanion, and would have retreated; but she laid hold of my hand, anddetained me. The next moment I felt a rude grasp upon my arm. Before Icould cry out, a hand was placed over my mouth so closely as almost tostifle me; and I was forced into the carriage by two persons, who seatedthemselves on either side of me, threatening to put me to death if Imade the slightest noise. The carriage was then driven off at a furiouspace. For some miles it pursued the high road, and then struck into alane, where, in consequence of the deep and dangerous ruts, the driverwas obliged to relax his speed. But in spite of all his caution, one ofthe wheels sunk into a hole, and in the efforts to extricate it, thecarriage was overturned. No injury was sustained either by me or theothers inside, and the door being forced open without much difficulty, we were let out. One of my captors kept near me, while the other lenthis assistance to the coachman to set the carriage to rights. It proved, however, to be so much damaged, that it could not proceed; and, afterconsiderable delay, my conductors ordered the coachman to remain with ittill further assistance could be sent; and, taking the horses, one ofthem, notwithstanding my resistance, placed me beside him, and gallopedoff. Having ridden about five miles, we crossed an extensive common, andpassed an avenue of trees, which brought us to the entrance of an oldhouse. Our arrival seemed to be expected; for the instant we appeared, the gate was opened, and the old woman you have just seen, and who iscalled Mrs. Carteret, together with a dumb African, named Hassan, appeared at it. Some muttered discourse passed between my conductors andthese persons, which ended in my being committed to the care of Mrs. Carteret who led me upstairs to a richly-furnished chamber, and urged meto take some refreshment before I retired to rest, which, however, Ideclined. "

"Still, you saw nothing of Sir Paul Parravicin?" asked Leonard. 

"On going downstairs next morning, he was the first person I beheld, "replied Nizza. "Falling upon his knees, he implored my pardon for theartifice he had practised, and said he had been compelled to haverecourse to it in order to save me from the king. He then began to pleadhis own suit; but finding his protestations of passion of no effect, hebecame yet more importunate; when, at this juncture, one of the men whohad acted as my conductor on the previous night suddenly entered theroom, and told him he must return to Oxford without an instant's delay, as the king's attendants were in search of him. Casting a look at methat made me tremble, he then departed; and though I remained more thantwo months in that house, I saw nothing more of him. "

"Did you not attempt to escape during that time?" asked Leonard. 

"I was so carefully watched by Mrs. Carteret and Hassan, that it wouldhave been vain to attempt it, " she replied. "About a week ago, the twomen who had conducted me to my place of captivity, again made theirappearance, and told me I must accompany them to London. I attempted noresistance, well aware it would be useless; and as the journey was madeby by-roads, three days elapsed before we reached the capital. Wearrived at night, and I almost forgot my own alarm in the terriblesights I beheld at every turn. It would have been useless to call outfor assistance, for there was no one to afford it. I asked my conductorsif they had brought me there to die, and they answered, sternly, 'Itdepended on myself. ' At Ludgate we met Chowles, the coffin-maker, and hebrought us to this house. Yesterday, Sir Paul Parravicin made hisappearance, and told me he had brought me hither to be out of the king'sway. He then renewed his odious solicitations. I resisted him as firmlyas before; but he was more determined; and I might have been reduced tothe last extremity but for your arrival, or for the terrible disorderthat has seized me. But I have spoken enough of myself. Tell me what hasbecome of Amabel?"

"She, too, has got the plague, " replied Leonard, mournfully. 

"Alas! alas!" cried Nizza, bursting into tears; "she is so dear to you, that I grieve for her far more than for myself. "

"I have not seen her since I last beheld you, " said Leonard, greatlytouched by the poor girl's devotion. "She was carried off by the Earl ofRochester on the same night that you were taken from Kingston Lisle bythe king. "

"And she has been in his power ever since?" demanded Nizza, eagerly. 

"Ever since, " repeated Leonard. 

"The same power that has watched over me, I trust has protected her, "cried Nizza, fervently. 

"I cannot doubt it, " replied Leonard. "She would now not be alive wereit otherwise. But I have now something of importance to disclose to you. You remember the stranger we met near the plague-pit in Finsbury Fields, and whose child I buried?"

"Perfectly, " replied Nizza. 

"What if I tell you he is your father?" said Leonard. 

"What!" cried Nizza, in the utmost surprise. "Have I, then, beenmistaken all these years in supposing the piper to be my father?"

"You have, " replied Leonard. "I cannot explain more to you at present;but a few hours will reveal all. Thirlby is the name of your father. Have you ever heard it before?"

"Never, " returned Nizza. "It is strange what you tell me. I have oftenreproached myself for not feeling a stronger affection for the piper, who always treated me with the kindness of a parent. But it now seemsthe true instinct was wanting. Tell me your reasons for supposing thisperson to be my father. "

As Leonard was about to reply, the door was opened by Mrs. Carteret, whosaid that Sir Paul Parravicin had just returned with Doctor Hodges andanother gentleman. The words were scarcely uttered, when Thirlby rushedinto the room, and, flinging himself on his knees before the couch, cried, "At last I have found you--my child! my child!" The surprisewhich Nizza must have experienced at such an address was materiallylessened by what Leonard had just told her; and, after earnestlyregarding the stranger for some time, she exclaimed, in a gentle voice, "My father!"

Thirlby sprang to his feet, and would have folded her in his arms, ifDoctor Hodges, who by this time had reached the couch, had not preventedhim. "Touch her not, or you destroy yourself, " he cried. 

"I care not if I do, " rejoined Thirlby. "The gratification would becheaply purchased at the price of my life; and if I could preserve hersby the sacrifice, I would gladly make it. "

"No more of this, " cried Hodges, impatiently, "or you will defeat anyattempt I may make to cure her. You had better not remain here. Yourpresence agitates her. "

Gazing wistfully at his daughter, and scarcely able to tear himselfaway, Thirlby yielded at last to the doctor's advice, and quitted theroom. He was followed by Leonard, who received a hint to the sameeffect. On reaching the adjoining room, they found Sir Paul Parravicinwalking to and fro in an agitated manner. He immediately came up toThirlby, and, in an anxious but deferential tone, inquired how he hadfound Nizza? The latter shook his head, and, sternly declining anyfurther conversation, passed on with the apprentice to an outer room. Hethen flung himself into a chair, and appeared lost in deep and bitterreflection. Leonard was unwilling to disturb him; but at last his ownanxieties compelled him to break silence. 

"Can you tell me aught of Amabel?" he asked. 

"Alas! no, " replied Thirlby, rousing himself. "I have had no time toinquire about her, as you shall hear. After leaving you on the bridge, Iwent into Southwark, and hurrying through all the principal streets, inquired from every watchman I met whether he had seen any personanswering to Doctor Hodges's description, but could hear nothing of him. At last I gave up the quest, and, retracing my steps, was proceedingalong Cannon-street, when I descried a person a little in advance of me, whom I thought must be the doctor, and, calling out to him, found I wasnot mistaken. I had just reached him, when two other persons turned thecorner of Nicholas-lane. On seeing us, one of them ran up to the doctor, exclaiming, 'By Heaven, the very person I want!' It was Sir PaulParravicin; and he instantly explained his errand. Imagine the feelingswith which I heard his account of the illness of my daughter. Imagine, also, the horror I must have experienced in recognising in herpersecutor my--"

The sentence was not completed, for at that moment the door was openedby Sir Paul Parravicin, who, advancing towards Thirlby, begged, in thesame deferential tone as before, to have a few words with him. 

"I might well refuse you, " replied Thirlby, sternly, "but it isnecessary we should have some explanation of what has occurred. "

"It is, " rejoined Parravicin, "and, therefore, I have sought you. "Thirlby arose, and accompanied the knight into the outer room, closingthe door after him. More than a quarter of an hour--it seemed an age toLeonard--elapsed, and still no one came. Listening intently, he heardvoices in the next room. They were loud and angry, as if in quarrel. Then all was quiet, and at last Thirlby reappeared, and took his seatbeside him. 

"Have you seen Doctor Hodges?" inquired the apprentice, eagerly. 

"I have, " replied Thirlby--"and he speaks favourably of my poor child. He has administered all needful remedies, but as it is necessary towatch their effect, he will remain with her some time longer. "

"And, meanwhile, I shall know nothing of Amabel, " cried Leonard, in atone of bitter disappointment. 

"Your anxiety is natural, " returned Thirlby, "but you may restsatisfied, if Doctor Hodges has seen her, he has done all that human aidcan effect. But as you must perforce wait his coming forth, I willendeavour to beguile the tedious interval by relating to you so much ofmy history as refers to Nizza Macascree. "

After a brief pause, he commenced. "You must know, then, that in myyouth I became desperately enamoured of a lady named Isabella Morley. She was most beautiful--but I need not enlarge upon her attractions, since you have beheld her very image in Nizza. When I first met her shewas attached to another, but I soon rid myself of my rival. I quarrelledwith him, and slew him in a duel. After a long and urgent suit, for thesuccessful issue of which I was mainly indebted to my rank and wealth, which gave great influence with her parents, Isabella became mine. But Isoon found out she did not love me. In consequence of this discovery, Ibecame madly jealous, and embittered her life and my own by constant, and, now I know too well, groundless suspicions. She had borne me a son, and in the excess of my jealous fury, fancying the child was not my own, I threatened to put it to death. This violence led to the unhappy resultI am about to relate. Another child was born, a daughter--need I sayNizza, or to give her her proper name, Isabella, for she was sochristened after her mother--and one night--one lucklessnight, --maddened by some causeless doubt, I snatched the innocent babefrom her mother's arms, and if I had not been prevented by theattendants, who rushed into the room on hearing their mistress'sshrieks, should have destroyed her. After awhile, I became pacified, andon reviewing my conduct more calmly on the morrow, bitterly reproachedmyself, and hastened to express my penitence to my wife. 'You will neverhave an opportunity of repeating your violence, ' she said; 'the objectof your cruel and unfounded suspicions is gone. '--'Gone!' I exclaimed;'whither?' And as I spoke I looked around the chamber. But the babe wasnowhere to be seen. In answer to my inquiries, my wife admitted that shehad caused her to be removed to a place of safety, but refused, even onmy most urgent entreaties, accompanied by promises of amended conduct, to tell me where. I next interrogated the servants, but they professedentire ignorance of the matter. For three whole days I made ineffectualsearch for the child, and offered large rewards to any one who wouldbring her to me. But they failed to produce her; and repairing to mywife's chamber, I threatened her with the most terrible consequences ifshe persisted in her vindictive project. She defied me, and, transportedwith rage, I passed my sword through her body, exclaiming as I dealt themurderous blow, 'You have sent the brat to her father--to your lover, madam. ' Horror and remorse seized me the moment I had committed theruthless act, and I should have turned my sword against myself, if I hadnot been stayed by the cry of my poor victim, who implored me to hold myhand. 'Do not add crime to crime, ' she cried; 'you have done me grievouswrong. I have not, indeed, loved you, because my affections were notunder my control, but I have been ever true to you, and this I declarewith my latest breath. I freely forgive you, and pray God to turn yourheart. ' And with these words she expired. I was roused from thestupefaction into which I was thrown by the appearance of the servants. Heaping execrations upon me, they strove to seize me; but I brokethrough them, and gained a garden at the back of my mansion, which wassituated on the bank of the Thames, not far from Chelsea. This gardenran down to the river side, and was defended by a low wall, which Ileapt, and plunged into the stream. A boat was instantly sent in pursuitof me, and a number of persons ran along the banks, all eager for mycapture. But being an excellent swimmer, I tried to elude them, and as Inever appeared again, it was supposed I was drowned. "

"And Nizza, or as I ought now to call her, Isabella, was confided, Isuppose, to the piper?" inquired Leonard. 

"She was confided to his helpmate, " replied Thirlby, "who had been nurseto my wife. Mike Macascree was one of my father's servants, and was inhis younger days a merry, worthless fellow. The heavy calamity underwhich he now labours had not then befallen him. On taking charge of mydaughter, his wife received certain papers substantiating the child'sorigin, together with a miniature, and a small golden amulet. The papersand miniature were delivered by her on her death-bed to the piper, whoshowed them to me to-night. "

"And the amulet I myself have seen, " remarked Leonard. 

"To resume my own history, " said Thirlby--"after the dreadfulcatastrophe I have related, I remained concealed in London for somemonths, and was glad to find the report of my death generally believed. I then passed over into Holland, where I resided for several years, inthe course of which time I married the widow of a rich merchant, whodied soon after our union, leaving me one child. " And he covered hisface with his hands to hide his emotion. After awhile he proceeded:

"Having passed many years, as peacefully as one whose conscience was soheavily burdened as mine could hope to pass them, in Amsterdam, I lastsummer brought my daughter, around whom my affections were closelytwined, to London, and took up my abode in the eastern environs of thecity. There again I was happy--too happy!--until at last the plaguecame. But why should I relate the rest of my sad story?" he added, in avoice suffocated with emotion--"you know it as well as I do. "

"You said you had a son, " observed Leonard, after a pause--"Is he yetliving?"

"He is, " replied Thirlby, a shade passing over his countenance. "On myreturn to England I communicated to him through Judith Malmayns, who ismy foster-sister, that I was still alive, telling him the name I hadadopted, and adding, I should never disturb him in the possession of histitle and estates. "

"Title!" exclaimed Leonard. 

"Ay, title!" echoed Thirlby. "The title I once bore was that of LordArgentine. "

"I am glad to hear it, " said Leonard, "for I began to fear Sir PaulParravicin was your son. "

"Sir Paul Parravicin, or, rather, the Lord Argentine, for such is hisrightful title, _is_ my son, " returned Thirlby; "and I lament to own Iam his father. When among his worthless associates, --nay, even with theking--he drops the higher title, and assumes that by which you haveknown him; and it is well he does so, for his actions are sufficient totarnish a far nobler name than that he bears. Owing to this disguise Iknew not he was the person who carried off my daughter. But, thankHeaven, another and fouler crime has been spared us. All these thingshave been strangely explained to me to-night. And thus, you see, youngman, the poor piper's daughter turns out to be the Lady IsabellaArgentine. " Before an answer could be returned, the door was opened byHodges, and both starting to their feet, hurried towards him. 

IV. 

THE TRIALS OF AMABEL. 

It will now be necessary to return to the period of Amabel's abductionfrom Kingston Lisle. The shawl thrown over her head prevented her criesfrom being heard; and, notwithstanding her struggles, she was placed onhorseback before a powerful man, who galloped off with her along theWantage-road. After proceeding at a rapid pace for about two miles, herconductor came to a halt, and she could distinguish the sound of otherhorsemen approaching. At first she hoped it might prove a rescue; butshe was quickly undeceived. The shawl was removed, and she beheld theEarl of Rochester, accompanied by Pillichody, and some half-dozenmounted attendants. The earl would have transferred her to his ownsteed, but she offered such determined resistance to the arrangement, that he was compelled to content himself with riding by her aide. Allhis efforts to engage her in conversation were equally unsuccessful. Shemade no reply to his remarks, but averted her gaze from him; and, whenever he approached, shrank from him with abhorrence. The earl, however, was not easily repulsed, but continued his attentions anddiscourse, as if both had been favourably received. 

In this way they proceeded for some miles, one of the earl's attendants, who was well acquainted with the country, being in fact a native of it, serving as their guide. They had quitted the Wantage-road, and leavingthat ancient town, renowned as the birthplace of the great Alfred, onthe right, had taken the direction of Abingdon and Oxford. It was alovely evening, and their course led them through many charming places. But the dreariest waste would have been as agreeable as the richestprospect to Amabel. She noted neither the broad meadows, yet white fromthe scythe, nor the cornfields waving with their deep and abundant, though yet immature crops; nor did she cast even a passing glance at anyone of those green spots which every lane offers, and upon which the eyeof the traveller ordinarily delights to linger. She rode beneath anatural avenue of trees, whose branches met overhead like the arches ofa cathedral, and was scarcely conscious of their pleasant shade. Sheheard neither the song of the wooing thrush, nor the cry of the startledblackbird, nor the evening hymn of the soaring lark. Alike to her wasthe gorse-covered common, along which they swiftly speeded, and thesteep hill-side up which they more swiftly mounted. She breathed not thedelicious fragrance of the new-mown hay, nor listened to the distantlowing herds, the bleating sheep, or the cawing rooks. She thought ofnothing but her perilous situation, --heard nothing but the voice ofRochester, --felt nothing but the terror inspired by his presence. 

As the earl did not desire to pass through any village, if he could helpit, his guide led him along the most unfrequented roads; but in spite ofhis caution, an interruption occurred which had nearly resulted inAmabel's deliverance. While threading a narrow lane, they came suddenlyupon a troop of haymakers, in a field on the right, who, up to thatmoment, had been hidden from view by the high hedges. On seeing them, Amabel screamed loudly for assistance, and was instantly answered bytheir shouts. Rochester ordered his men to gallop forward, but the roadwinding round the meadow, the haymakers were enabled to take a shortercut and intercept them. Leaping the hedge, a stout fellow rushed towardsAmabel's conductor, and seized the bridle of his steed. He was followedby two others, who would have instantly liberated the captive girl, ifthe earl had not, with great presence of mind, cried out, "Touch hernot, as you value your lives! She is ill of the plague!"

At this formidable announcement, which operated like magic upon Amabel'sdefenders, and made them fall back more quickly than the weapons of theearl's attendants could have done, they retreated, and communicatingtheir fears to their comrades, who were breaking through the hedge inall directions, and hurrying to their aid, the whole band took to theirheels, and, regardless of Amabel's continued shrieks, never stopped tillthey supposed themselves out of the reach of infection. The earl wasthus at liberty to pursue his way unmolested, and laughing heartily atthe success of his stratagem, and at the consternation he had createdamong the haymakers, pressed forward. 

Nothing further occurred till, in crossing the little river Ock, nearLyford, the horse ridden by Amabel's conductor missed its footing, andprecipitated them both into the water. No ill consequences followed theaccident. Throwing himself into the shallow stream, Rochester seizedAmabel, and placed her beside him on his own steed. A deathly palenessoverspread her countenance, and a convulsion shook her frame as she wasthus brought into contact with the earl, who, fearing the immersionmight prove dangerous in her present delicate state of health, quickenedhis pace to procure assistance. Before he had proceeded a hundred yards, Amabel fainted. Gazing at her with admiration, and pressing herinanimate frame to his breast, Rochester imprinted a passionate kiss onher cheek. 

"By my soul!" he mentally ejaculated, "I never thought I could be sodesperately enamoured. I would not part with her for the crown of theserealms. "

While considering whither he should take her, and much alarmed at hersituation, the man who acted as guide came to his relief. Halting tillthe earl came up, he said, "If you want assistance for the young lady, my lord, I can take you to a good country inn, not far from this, whereshe will be well attended to, and where, as it is kept by my father, Ican answer that no questions will be asked. "

"Precisely what I wish, Sherborne, " replied Rochester. "We will haltthere for the night. Ride on as fast as you can. "

Sherborne struck spurs into his steed, and passing Kingston Bagpuze, reached the high road between Abingdon and Faringdon, at the corner ofwhich stood the inn in question, --a good-sized habitation, with largestables and a barn attached to it. Here he halted, and calling out in aloud and authoritative voice, the landlord instantly answered thesummons; and, on being informed by his son of the rank of his guest, doffed his cap, and hastened to assist the earl to dismount. ButRochester declined his services, and bidding him summon his wife, sheshortly afterwards made her appearance in the shape of a stoutmiddle-aged dame. Committing Amabel to her care, the earl then alighted, and followed them into the house. 

The Plough, for so the inn was denominated, was thrown into the utmostconfusion by the arrival of the earl and his suite. All the ordinaryfrequenters of the inn were ejected, while the best parlour wasinstantly prepared for the accommodation of his lordship and Pillichody. But Rochester was far more anxious for Amabel than himself, and couldnot rest for a moment till assured by Dame Sherborne that she wasrestored to sensibility, and about to retire to rest. He then becameeasy, and sat down to supper with Pillichody. So elated was he by hissuccess, that, yielding to his natural inclination for hard drinking, hecontinued to revel so freely and so long with his follower, thatdaybreak found them over their wine, the one toasting the grocer'sdaughter, and the other Patience, when they both staggered off to bed. 

A couple of hours sufficed Rochester to sleep off the effects of hiscarouse. At six o'clock he arose, and ordered his attendants to prepareto set out without delay. When all was ready, he sent for Amabel, butshe refused to come downstairs, and finding his repeated messages of noavail, he rushed into her room, and bore her, shrieking to his steed. 

In an hour after this, they arrived at an old hall, belonging to theearl, in the neighbourhood of Oxford. Amabel was entrusted to the careof a female attendant, named Prudence, and towards evening, Rochester, who was burning with impatience for an interview, learnt, to hisinfinite disappointment, that she was so seriously unwell, that if heforced himself into her presence, her life might be placed in jeopardy. She continued in the same state for several days, at the end of whichtime, the chirurgeon who attended her, and who was a creature of theearl's, pronounced her out of danger. Rochester then sent her word byPrudence that he must see her in the course of that day, and a few hoursafter the delivery of the message, he sought her room. She was muchenfeebled by illness, but received him with great self-possession. 

"I cannot believe, my lord, " she said, "that you desire to destroy me, and when I assure you--solemnly assure you, that if you continue topersecute me thus, my death, will be the consequence, I am persuaded youwill desist, and suffer me to depart. "

"Amabel, " rejoined the earl, passionately, "is it possible you can be sochanged towards me? Nothing now interferes to prevent our union. "

"Except my own determination to the contrary, my lord, " she replied. "Ican never be yours. "

"Wherefore not?" asked the earl, half angrily, half reproachfully. 

"Because I know and feel that I should condemn myself to wretchedness, "she replied. "Because--for since your lordship will force the truth fromme, I must speak out--I have learnt to regard your character in its truelight, --and because my heart is wedded to heaven. "

"Pshaw!" exclaimed the earl, contemptuously; "you have been listening solong to your saintly father's discourses, that you fancy them applicableto yourself. But you are mistaken in me, " he added, altering his tone;"I see where the main difficulty lies. You think I am about to deludeyou, as before, into a mock marriage. But I swear to you you aremistaken. I love you so well that I would risk my temporal and eternalhappiness for you. It will rejoice me to raise you to my own rank--toplace you among the radiant beauties of our sovereign's court, thebrightest of whom you will outshine, and to devote my whole life to yourhappiness. "

"It is too late, " sighed Amabel. 

"Why too late?" cried the earl, imploringly. "We have gone throughsevere trials, it is true. I have been constantly baffled in my pursuitof you, but disappointment has only made me love you more devotedly. Whytoo late? What is to prevent our nuptials from taking placeto-day--to-morrow--when you will? The king himself shall be present atthe ceremony, and shall give you away. Will this satisfy your scruples. I know I have offended you. I know I deserve your anger. But the lovethat prompted me to act thus, must also plead my pardon. "

"Strengthen me!" she murmured, looking supplicatingly upwards. "Strengthen me, for my trial is very severe. "

"Be not deceived, Amabel, " continued Rochester, yet more ardently; "thatyou love me I am well assured, however strongly you may at this momentpersuade yourself to the contrary. Be not governed by your father'sstrait-laced and puritanical opinions. Men, such as he is, cannot judgeof fiery natures like mine. I myself have had to conquer a stubborn andrebellious spirit, --the demon pride. But I have conquered. Love hasachieved the victory, --love for you. I offer you my heart, my hand, mytitle. A haughty noble makes this offer to a grocer's daughter. Canyou--will you refuse me?"

"I can and do, my lord, " she replied. "I have achieved a yet hardervictory. With me, principle has conquered love. I no longer respect you, no longer love you--and, therefore, cannot wed you. "

"Rash and obstinate girl, " cried the earl, unable to conceal hismortification; "you will bitterly repent your inconsiderate conduct. Ioffer you devotion such as no other person could offer you, and ranksuch as no other is likely to offer you. You are now in my power, andyou _shall_ be mine, --in what way rests with yourself. You shall have aweek to consider the matter. At the end of that time, I will again renewmy proposal. If you accept it, well and good. If not, you know thealternative. " And without waiting for a reply, he quitted the room. 

He was as good as his word. During the whole of the week allowed Amabelfor consideration, he never intruded upon her, nor was his name at anytime mentioned by her attendants. If she had been, indeed, Countess ofRochester, she could not have been treated with greater respect than wasshown her. The apartment allotted her opened upon a large garden, surrounded by high walls, and she walked within it daily. Her serenityof mind remained undisturbed; her health visibly improved; and, what wasyet more surprising, she entirely recovered her beauty. The whole of hertime not devoted to exercise, was spent in reading, or in prayer. On theappointed day, Rochester presented himself. She received him with themost perfect composure, and with a bland look, from which he auguredfavourably. He waved his hand to the attendants, and they were alone. 

"I came for your answer, Amabel, " he said; "but I scarcely require it, being convinced from your looks that I have nothing to fear. Oh! why didyou not abridge this tedious interval? Why not inform me you had alteredyour mind? But I will not reproach you. I am too happy to complain ofthe delay?"

"I must undeceive you, my lord, " returned Amabel, gravely. "No changehas taken place in my feelings. I still adhere to the resolution I hadcome to when we last parted. "

"How!" exclaimed the earl, his countenance darkening, and the evil lookwhich Amabel had before noticed taking possession of it. "One momentlured on, and next rebuffed. But no--no!" he added, constraininghimself, "you cannot mean it. It is not in woman's nature to act thus. You have loved me--you love me still. Make me happy--make yourselfhappy. "

"My lord, " she replied, "strange and unnatural as my conduct may appear, you will find it consistent. You have lost the sway you had once overme, and, for the reasons I have already given you, I can never beyours. "

"Oh, recall your words, Amabel, " he cried, in the most moving tones hecould command; "if you have no regard for me--at least have compassion. I will quit the court if you desire it; will abandon title, rank, wealth; and live in the humblest station with you. You know not what Iam capable of when under the dominion of passion. I am capable of thedarkest crimes, or of the brightest virtues. The woman who has a man'sheart in her power may mould it to her own purposes, be they good orill. Reject me, and you drive me to despair, and plunge me into guilt. Accept me, and you may lead me into any course, you please. "

"Were I assured of this--" cried Amabel. 

"Rest assured of it, " returned the earl, passionately. "Oh, yield toimpulses of natural affection, and do not suffer a cold and calculatingcreed to chill your better feelings. How many a warm and loving hearthas been so frozen! Do not let yours be one of them. Be mine! be mine!"

Amabel looked at him earnestly for a moment; while he, assured that hehad gained his point, could not conceal a slightly triumphant smile. 

"Now, your answer!" he cried. "My life hangs upon it. "

"I am still unmoved, " she replied, coldly, and firmly. 

"Ah!" exclaimed the earl with a terrible imprecation, and starting tohis feet. "You refuse me. Be it so. But think not that you shall escapeme. No, you are in my power, and I will use it. You shall be mine andwithout the priest's interference. I will not degrade myself by analliance with one so lowly born. The strongest love is nearest allied tohatred, and mine has become hatred--bitter hatred. You shall be mine, Itell you, and when I am indifferent to you, I will cast you off. Then, when you are neglected, despised, shunned, you will regret--deeply butunavailingly--your rejection of my proposals. "

"No, my lord, I shall never regret it, " replied Amabel, "and I cannotsufficiently rejoice that I did not yield to the momentary weakness thatinclined me to accept them. I thank you for the insight you haveafforded me into your character. "

"You have formed an erroneous opinion of me, Amabel, " cried the earl, seeing his error, and trying to correct it. "I am well nigh distractedby conflicting emotions. Oh, forgive my violence--forget it. "

"Readily, " she replied; "but think not I attach the least credit to yourprofessions. "

"Away, then, with further disguise, " returned the earl, relapsing intohis furious mood, "and recognise in me the person I am--or, rather theperson you would have me be. You say you are immovable. So am I; norwill I further delay my purpose. "

Amabel, who had watched him uneasily during this speech, retreated astep, and taking a small dagger from a handkerchief in which she kept itconcealed, placed its point against her breast. 

"I well know whom I have to deal with, my lord, " she said, "and am, therefore, provided against the last extremity. Attempt to touch me, and Iplunge this dagger into my heart. "

"Your sense of religion will not allow you to commit so desperate adeed, " replied the earl, derisively. 

"My blood be upon your head, my lord, " she rejoined; "for it is yourhand that strikes the blow, and not my own. My honour is dearer to methan life, and I will unhesitatingly sacrifice the one to preserve theother. I have no fear but that the action, wrongful though it be, willbe forgiven me. "

"Hold!" exclaimed the earl, seeing from her determined look and mannerthat she would unquestionably execute her purpose. "I have no desire todrive you to destruction. Think over what I have said to you, and wewill renew the subject tomorrow. "

"Renew it when you please, my lord, my answer will still be the same, "she replied. "I have but one refuge from you--the grave--and thither, ifneed be, I will fly. " And as she spoke, she moved slowly towards theadjoining chamber, the door of which she fastened after her. 

"I thought I had some experience of her sex, " said Rochester to himself, "but I find I was mistaken. To-morrow's mood, however, may be unliketo-day's. At all events, I must take my measures differently. "

 * * * * *

V. 

THE MARRIAGE AND ITS CONSEQUENCES. 

Unwilling to believe he had become an object of aversion to Amabel, Rochester renewed his solicitations on the following day, and callinginto play his utmost fascination of manner, endeavoured to remove anyill impression produced by his previous violence. She was proof, however, against his arts; and though he never lost his mastery overhimself, he had some difficulty in concealing his chagrin at the resultof the interview. He now began to adopt a different course, and enteringinto long discussions with Amabel, strove by every effort of wit andridicule, to shake and subvert her moral and religious principles. Buthere again he failed; and once more shifting his ground, affected to beconvinced by her arguments. He entirely altered his demeanour, andthough Amabel could not put much faith in the change, it was a subjectof real rejoicing to her. Though scarcely conscious of it herself, hesensibly won upon her regards, and she passed many hours of each day inhis society without finding it irksome. Seeing the advantage he hadgained, and well aware that he should lose it by the slightestindiscretion, Rochester acted with the greatest caution. The more atease she felt with him, the more deferential did he become; and beforeshe was conscious of her danger, the poor girl was once more on thebrink of the precipice. 

It was about this time that Leonard Holt, as has been previouslyintimated, discovered her retreat, and contrived, by clambering up apear-tree which was nailed against the wall of the house, to reach herchamber-window. Having received her assurance that she had resisted allRochester's importunities, the apprentice promised to return on thefollowing night with means to affect her liberation, and departed. Fullypersuaded that she could now repose confidence in the earl, Amabelacquainted him, the next morning, with Leonard's visit, adding that hewould now have an opportunity of proving the sincerity of hisprofessions by delivering her up to her friends. 

"Since you desire it, " replied the earl, who heard her with an unmovedcountenance, though internally torn with passion, "I will convey you toyour father myself. I had hoped, " he added with a sigh, "that we shouldnever part again. "

"I fear I have been mistaken in you, my lord, " rejoined Amabel, half-repenting her frankness. 

"Not so, " he replied. "I will do anything you require, except deliveryou to this hateful apprentice. If it is your pleasure, I repeat, I willtake you back to your father. "

"Promise me this, my lord, and I shall be quite easy, " cried Amabel, joyfully. 

"I do promise it, " he returned. "But oh! why not stay with me, andcomplete the good work you have begun?"

Amabel averted her head, and Rochester sighing deeply, quitted the room. An attendant shortly afterwards came to inform her that the earlintended to start for London without delay, and begged her to preparefor the journey. In an hour's time, a carriage drove to the door, andRochester having placed her and Prudence in it, mounted his horse, andset forth. Late on the second day they arrived in London, and passingthrough the silent and deserted streets, the aspect of which struckterror into all the party, shaped their course towards the city. Presently they reached Ludgate, but instead of proceeding toWood-street, the carriage turned off on the right, and traversingThames-street, crossed London Bridge. Amabel could obtain no explanationof this change from Prudence; and her uneasiness was not diminished whenthe vehicle, which was driven down a narrow street on the leftimmediately after quitting the bridge, stopped at the entrance of alarge court-yard. Rochester, who had already dismounted, assisted her toalight, and in answer to her hasty inquiries why he had brought herthither, told her he thought it better to defer taking her to her fathertill the morrow. Obliged to be content with this excuse, she was ledinto the house, severely reproaching herself for her indiscretion. Nothing, however, occurred to alarm her that night. The earl was evenmore deferential than before, and assuring her he would fulfil hispromise in the morning, confided her to Prudence. 

The house whither she had been brought was large and old-fashioned. Therooms had once been magnificently fitted up, but the hangings andfurniture were much faded, and had a gloomy and neglected air. This wasespecially observable in the sleeping-chamber appointed for herreception. It was large and lofty, panelled with black and shining oak, with a highly-polished floor of the same material, and was filled withcumbrous chests and cabinets, and antique high-backed chairs. But themost noticeable object was a large state-bed, with a heavy squarecanopy, covered, with the richest damask, woven with gold, and hung withcurtains of the same stuff, though now decayed and tarnished. A chillcrept over Amabel as she gazed around. 

"I cannot help thinking, " she observed to Prudence, "that I shall breathemy last in this room, and in that bed. "

"I hope not, madam, " returned the attendant, unable to repress ashudder. 

Nothing more was said, and Amabel retired to rest. But not being able tosleep, and having vainly tried to compose herself, she arose and openedthe window. It was a serene and beautiful night, and she could see thesmooth river sparkling in the starlight, and flowing at a hundred yards'distance at the foot of the garden. Beyond, she could indistinctlyperceive the outline of the mighty city, while nearer, on the left, laythe bridge. Solemnly across the water came the sound of innumerablebells, tolling for those who had died of the plague, and were now beingborne to their last home. While listening to these sad sounds, another, but more doleful and appalling noise, caught her ears. It was therumbling of cart-wheels in the adjoining street, accompanied by theringing of a hand-bell, while a hoarse-voice cried, "Bring out yourdead! bring out your dead!" On hearing this cry, she closed the windowand retired. Morning broke before sleep visited her weary eyelids, andthen, overcome by fatigue, she dropped into a slumber, from which shedid not awake until the day was far advanced. She found Prudence sittingby her bedside, and alarmed by the expression of her countenance, anxiously inquired what was the matter?

"Alas! madam, " replied the attendant, "the earl has been taken suddenlyill. He set out for Wood-street the first thing this morning, and hasseen your father, who refuses to receive you. On his return, hecomplained of a slight sickness, which has gradually increased inviolence, and there can be little doubt it is the plague. Advice hasbeen sent for. He prays you not to disturb yourself on his account, butto consider yourself sole mistress of this house, whatever may befallhim. "

Amabel passed a miserably anxious day. A fresh interest had beenawakened in her heart in behalf of the earl, and the precarious state inwhich she conceived him placed did not tend to diminish it. She mademany inquiries after him, and learned that he was worse, while thefearful nature of the attack could not be questioned. On the followingday Prudence reported that the distemper had made such rapid andterrible progress, that his recovery was considered almost hopeless. 

"He raves continually of you, madam, " said the attendant, "and I have nodoubt he will expire with your name on his lips. "

Amabel was moved to tears by the information, and withdrawing into acorner of the room, prayed fervently for the supposed sufferer. Prudencegazed at her earnestly and compassionately, and muttering something toherself, quitted the room. The next day was the critical one (so it wassaid) for the earl, and Amabel awaited, in tearful anxiety, the momentthat was to decide his fate. It came, and he was pronounced out ofdanger. When the news was brought the anxious girl, she fainted. 

A week passed, and the earl, continued to improve, and all danger ofinfection--if any such existed--being at an end, he sent a message toAmabel, beseeching her to grant him an interview in his own room. Shewillingly assented, and, following the attendant, found him stretchedupon a couch. In spite of his paleness and apparent debility, however, his good looks were but little impaired, and his attire, thoughnegligent, was studiously arranged for effect. On Amabel's appearance hemade an effort to rise, but she hastened to prevent him. After thankingher for her kind inquiries, he entered into a long conversation withher, in the course of which he displayed sentiments so exactlycoinciding with her own, that the good opinion she had already begun toentertain for him was soon heightened into the liveliest interest. Theyparted, to meet again on the following day--and on the day followingthat. The bloom returned to the earl's countenance, and he lookedhandsomer than ever. A week thus passed, and at the end of it, hesaid--"To-morrow I shall be well enough to venture forth again, and myfirst business shall be to proceed to your father, and see whether he isnow able to receive you. "

"The plague has not yet abated, my lord, " she observed, blushingly. 

"True, " he replied, looking passionately at her. "Oh, forgive me, Amabel, " he added, taking her hand, which she did not attempt towithdraw. "Forgive me, if I am wrong. But I now think your feelings arealtered towards me, and that I may venture to hope you will be mine?"

Amabel's bosom heaved with emotion. She tried to speak, but could not. Her head declined upon his shoulder, and her tears flowed fast. "I amanswered, " he cried, scarcely able to contain his rapture, and strainingher to his bosom. 

"I know not whether I am doing rightly, " she murmured, gazing at himthrough her tears, "but I believe you mean me truly. God forgive you ifyou do not. "

"Have no more doubts, " cried the earl. "You have wrought an entirechange in me. Our union shall not be delayed an hour. It shall takeplace in Saint Saviour's to-night. "

"Not to-night, " cried Amabel, trembling at his eagerness--"to-morrow. "

"To-night, to-night!" reiterated the earl, victoriously. And he rushedout of the room. 

Amabel was no sooner left to herself than she repented what she haddone. "I fear I have made a false step, " she mused; "but it is now toolate to retreat, and I will hope for the best. He cannot mean to deceiveme. "

Her meditations were interrupted by the entrance of Prudence, who cametowards her with a face full of glee. "My lord has informed me of thegood news, " she said. "You are to be wedded to him to-day. I haveexpected it all along, but it is somewhat sudden at last. He is gone insearch of the priest, and in the mean time has ordered me to attire youfor the ceremony. I have several rich dresses for your ladyship--for soI must now call you--to choose from. "

"The simplest will suit me best, " replied Amabel, "and do not call meladyship till I have a right to that title. "

"That will be so soon that I am sure there can be no harm in using itnow, " returned Prudence. "But pray let me show you the dresses. "

Amabel suffered herself to be led into another room, where she sawseveral sumptuous female habiliments, and selecting the least showy ofthem, was soon arrayed in it by the officious attendant. More than twohours elapsed before Rochester returned, when he entered Amabel'schamber, accompanied by Sir George Etherege and Pillichody. A feeling ofmisgiving crossed Amabel, as she beheld his companions. 

"I have had some difficulty in finding a clergyman, " said the earl, "forthe rector of Saint Saviour's has fled from the plague. His curate, however, will officiate for him, and is now in the church. "

Amabel fixed a searching look upon him. "Why are these gentlemen here?"she asked. 

"I have brought them with me, " rejoined Rochester, "because, as theywere aware of the injury I once intended you, I wish them to be presentat its reparation. "

"I am satisfied, " she replied. 

Taking her hand, the earl then led her to a carriage, which conveyedthem to Saint Saviour's. Just as they alighted, the dead-cart passed, and several bodies were brought towards it. Eager to withdraw herattention from the spectacle, Rochester hurried her into the old andbeautiful church. In another moment they were joined by Etherege andPillichody, and they proceeded to the altar, where the priest, a youngman, was standing. The ceremony was then performed, and the earl led hisbride back to the carriage. On their return they had to undergo anotherill-omened interruption. The dead-cart was stationed near the gateway, and some delay occurred before it could be moved forward. 

Amabel, however, suffered no further misgiving to take possession ofher. Deeming herself wedded to the earl, she put no constraint on heraffection for him, and her happiness, though short-lived, was deep andfull. A month passed away like a dream of delight. Nothing occurred inthe slightest degree to mar her felicity. Rochester seemed only to livefor her--to think only of her. At the end of this time, someindifference began to manifest itself in his deportment to her, and heevinced a disposition to return to the court and to its pleasures. 

"I thought you had for ever abandoned them, my dear lord, " said Amabel, reproachfully. 

"For awhile I have, " he replied, carelessly. 

"You must leave me, if you return to them, " she rejoined. 

"If I must, I must, " said the earl. 

"You cannot mean this, my lord, " she cried, bursting into tears. "Youcannot be so changed. "

"I have never changed since you first knew me, " replied Rochester. 

"Impossible!" she cried, in a tone of anguish; "you have not thefaults--the vices, you once had. "

"I know not what you call faults and vices, madam, " replied the earlsharply, "but I have the same qualities as heretofore. 

"Am I to understand, then, " cried Amabel, a fearful suspicion of thetruth breaking upon her, "that you never sincerely repented your formeractions?"

"You are to understand it, " replied Rochester. 

"And you deceived me when you affirmed the contrary?"

"I deceived you, " he replied. 

"I begin to suspect, " she cried, with a look of horror and doubt, "thatthe attack of the plague was feigned. "

"You are not far wide of the truth, " was the reply. 

"And our marriage?" she cried--"our marriage? Was that feignedlikewise?"

"It was, " replied Rochester, calmly. 

Amabel looked at him fixedly for a few minutes, as if she could notcredit his assertion, and then receiving no contradiction, uttered awild scream, and rushed out of the room. Rochester followed, and saw herdart with lightning swiftness across the court-yard. On gaining thestreet, he perceived her flying figure already at some distance; andgreatly alarmed, started in pursuit. The unfortunate girl was notallowed to proceed far. Two persons who were approaching, and who provedto be Etherege and Pillichody, caught hold of her, and detained her tillRochester came up. When the latter attempted to touch her, she utteredsuch fearful shrieks, that Etherege entreated him to desist. With somedifficulty she was taken back to the house. But it was evident that theshock had unsettled her reason. She alternately uttered wild, piercingscreams, or broke into hysterical laughter. The earl's presence so muchincreased her frenzy, that he gladly withdrew. 

"This is a melancholy business, my lord, " observed Etherege, as theyquitted the room together, "and I am sorry for my share in it. We haveboth much to answer for. "

"Do you think her life in danger?" rejoined Rochester. 

"It would be well if it were so, " returned the other; "but I fear shewill live to be a perpetual memento to you of the crime you havecommitted. "

Amabel's delirium produced a high fever, which continued for three days. Her screams were at times so dreadful, that her betrayer shut himself upin the furthest part of the house, that he might not hear them. When atlast she sank into a sleep like that of death, produced by powerfulopiates, he stole into the room, and gazed at her with feelings whichthose who watched his countenance did not envy. It was hoped by thechirurgeon in attendance, that when the violence of the fever abated, Amabel's reason would be restored. But it was not so. Her faculties werecompletely shaken, and the cause of her affliction being effaced fromher memory, she now spoke of the Earl of Rochester with her formeraffection. 

Her betrayer once ventured into her presence, but he did not repeat thevisit. Her looks and her tenderness were more than even _his_ firmnesscould bear, and he hurried away to hide his emotion from the attendants. Several days passed on, and as no improvement took place, the earl, whobegan to find the stings of conscience too sharp for further endurance, resolved to try to deaden the pangs by again plunging into thedissipation of the court. Prudence had been seized by the plague, andremoved to the pest-house, and not knowing to whom to entrust Amabel, itat last occurred to him that Judith Malmayns would be a fitting person, and he accordingly sent for her from Saint Paul's, and communicated hiswishes to her, offering her a considerable reward for the service. Judith readily undertook the office, and the earl delayed his departurefor two days, to see how all went on; and finding the arrangements, toall appearances, answer perfectly, he departed with Etherege andPillichody. 

Ever since the communication of the fatal truth had been made to her bythe earl, his unfortunate victim had occupied the large oak-panelledchamber, on entering which so sad a presentiment had seized her; and shehad never quitted the bed where she thought she would breathe her last. On the night of Rochester's departure she made many inquiries concerninghim from Judith Malmayns, who was seated in an old broad-cushioned, velvet-covered chair, beside her, and was told that the king requiredhis attendance at Oxford, but that he would soon return. At this answerthe tears gathered thickly in Amabel's dark eyelashes, and she remainedsilent. By-and-by she resumed the conversation. 

"Do you know, nurse, " she said, with a look of extreme anxiety, "I haveforgotten my prayers. Repeat them to me, and I will say them after you. "

"My memory is as bad as your ladyship's, " replied Judith, contemptuously. "It is so long since I said mine, that I have quiteforgotten them. "

"That is wrong in you, " returned Amabel, "very wrong. When I lived withmy dear father, we had prayers morning and evening, and I was never sohappy as then. I feel it would do me good if I could pray as I used todo. "

"Well, well, all in good time, " replied Judith. "As soon as you arebetter, you shall go back to your father, and then you can do as youplease. "

"No, no, I cannot go back to him, " returned Amabel. "I am the Earl ofRochester's wife--his wedded wife. Am I not Countess of Rochester?"

"To be sure you are, " replied Judith--"to be sure. "

"I sometimes think otherwise, " rejoined Amabel, mournfully. 

"And so my dear lord is gone to Oxford?"

"He is, " returned Judith, "but he will be back soon. And now, " sheadded, with some impatience, "you have talked quite long enough. Youmust take your composing draught, and go to sleep. "

With this she arose, and stepping to the table which stood by the sideof the bed, filled a wine-glass with the contents of a silver flagon, and gave it to her. Amabel drank the mixture, and complaining of itsnauseous taste, Judith handed her a plate of fruit from the table toremove it. Soon after this she dropped asleep, when the nurse arose, andtaking a light from the table, cautiously possessed herself of a bunchof keys which were placed in a small pocket over Amabel's head, andproceeded to unlock a large chest that stood near the foot of the bed. She found it filled with valuables--with chains of gold, necklaces ofprecious stones, loops of pearl, diamond crosses, and other ornaments. Besides these, there were shawls and stuffs of the richest description. While contemplating these treasures, and considering how she shouldcarry them off without alarming the household, she was startled by aprofound sigh; and looking towards the bed, perceived to her greatalarm, that Amabel had opened her eyes, and was watching her. 

"What are you doing there, nurse?" she cried. 

"Only looking at these pretty things, your ladyship, " replied Judith, inan embarrassed tone. 

"I hope you are not going to steal them?" said Amabel. 

"Steal them?" echoed Judith, alarmed. "Oh, no! What should make yourladyship think so?"

"I don't know, " said Amabel; "but put them by, and bring the keys tome. "

Judith feigned compliance, but long before she had restored the thingsto the chest, Amabel had again fallen asleep. Apprised by her tranquilbreathing of this circumstance, Judith arose; and shading the candlewith her hand, crept noiselessly towards the bed. Dark thoughts crossedher as she gazed at the unfortunate sleeper; and moving with the utmostcaution, she set the light on the table behind the curtains, and hadjust grasped the pillow, with the intention of plucking it from underAmabel's head, and of smothering her with it, when she felt herselfrestrained by a powerful grasp, and turning in utmost alarm, beheld theEarl of Rochester. 

VI. 

THE CERTIFICATE. 

"Wretch!" cried the earl. "An instinctive dread that you would do yourpoor charge some injury brought me back, and I thank Heaven I havearrived in time to prevent your atrocious purpose. "

"Your lordship would have acted more discreetly in staying away, "replied Judith, recovering her resolution; "and I would recommend younot to meddle in the matter, but to leave it to me. No suspicion shallalight on you, nor shall it even be known that her end was hastened. Leave the house as secretly as you came, and proceed on your journeywith a light heart. She will never trouble you further. "

"What!" exclaimed Rochester, who was struck dumb for the moment bysurprise and indignation, "do you imagine I would listen to such aproposal? Do you think I would sanction her murder?"

"I am sure you would, if you knew as much as I do, " replied Judith, calmly. "Hear me, my lord, " she continued, drawing him to a littledistance from the bed, and speaking in a deep low tone. "You cannotmarry Mistress Mallet while this girl lives. "

Rochester looked sternly and inquiringly at her. "You think yourmarriage was feigned, " pursued Judith; "that he was no priest whoperformed the ceremony; and that no other witnesses were present exceptSir George Etherege and Pillichody. But you are mistaken. I and Chowleswere present; and he who officiated _was_ a priest. The marriage was alawful one; and yon sleeping girl, who, but for your ill-timedinterference, would, ere this, have breathed her last, is to all intentsand purposes Countess of Rochester. "

"A lie!" cried the earl, furiously. 

"I will soon prove it to be truth, " rejoined Judith. "Your retainer andunscrupulous agent, Major Pillichody, applied to Chowles to find someone to personate a clergyman in a mock marriage, which your lordshipwished to have performed, and promised a handsome reward for theservice. Chowles mentioned the subject to me, and we speedily contriveda plan to outwit your lordship, and turn the affair to our advantage. "

The earl uttered an ejaculation of rage. 

"Being acquainted with one of the minor canons of Saint Paul's, a worthyand pious young man, named Vincent, " pursued Judith, utterly unmoved byRochester's anger, "who resided hard by the cathedral, we hastened tohim, and acquainted him with the design, representing ourselves asanxious to serve the poor girl, and defeat your lordship's wickeddesign--for such we termed it. With a little persuasion, Mr. Vincentconsented to the scheme. Pillichody was easily duped by Chowles'sstatement, and the ceremony was fully performed. "

"The whole story is a fabrication, " cried the earl, with affectedincredulity. 

"I have a certificate of the marriage, " replied Judith, "signed by Mr. Vincent, and attested by Chowles and myself. If ever woman was wedded toman, Amabel is wedded to your lordship. "

"If this is the case, why seek to destroy her?" demanded the earl. "Herlife must be of more consequence to you than her removal. "

"I will deal frankly with you, " replied Judith. "She discovered me inthe act of emptying that chest, and an irresistible impulse prompted meto make away with her. But your lordship is in the right. Her life _is_valuable to me, and she _shall_ live. But, I repeat, you cannot marrythe rich heiress, Mistress Mallet. "

"Temptress!" cried the earl, "you put frightful thoughts into my head. "

"Go your ways, " replied Judith, "and think no more about her. All shallbe done that you require. I claim as my reward the contents of thatchest. "

"Your reward shall be the gallows, " rejoined the earl, indignantly. "Ireject your proposal at once. Begone, wretch! or I shall forget you area woman, and sacrifice you to my fury. Begone!"

"As your lordship pleases, " she replied; "but first, the Countess ofRochester shall be made acquainted with her rights. " So saying, shebroke from him, and rushed to the bed. 

"What are you about to do?" he cried. 

"Waken her, " rejoined Judith, slightly shaking the sleeper. 

"Ah!" exclaimed Amabel, opening her eyes, and gazing at her with aterrified and bewildered look. 

"His lordship is returned, " said Judith. 

"Indeed!" exclaimed Amabel, raising herself in the bed. "Where ishe?--Ah, I see him. --Come to me, my dear lord, " she added, stretchingout her arms to him, "Come to me. "

But evil thoughts kept Rochester motionless. "Oh! come to me, my lord, "cried Amabel, in a troubled tone, "or I shall begin to think what I havedreamed is true, and that I am not wedded to you. "

"It _was_ merely a dream, your ladyship, " observed Judith. "I will bearwitness you are wedded to his lordship, for I was present at theceremony. "

"I did not see you, " remarked Amabel. 

"I was there, nevertheless, " replied Judith. 

"I am sorry to hear it, " replied Amabel. 

"Your ladyship would rejoice if you knew all, " returned Judith, significantly. 

"Why so?" inquired the other, curiously. 

"Because the clergyman who married you is dead of the plague, " was theanswer; "and it may chance in these terrible times that the twogentlemen who were present at the ceremony may die of the samedistemper, and then there will be no one left but me and another personto prove that your marriage was lawful. "

"But its lawfulness will never be questioned, my dear lord, will it?"asked Amabel, looking beseechingly at Rochester. 

"Never, " replied Judith, producing a small piece of parchment, "while Ihold this certificate. "

"Give me that document, " said the earl, in an undertone, to her. 

Judith directed her eyes towards the chest. "It is yours, " said theearl, in the same tone as before. 

"What are you whispering, my lord?" inquired Amabel, uneasily. 

"I am merely telling her to remove that chest, sweetheart, " he replied. 

"Do not send it away, " cried Amabel. "It contains all the ornaments andtrinkets you have given me. Do you know, " she added in a whisper, "Icaught her looking into it just now, and I suspect she was about tosteal something. "

"Pshaw!" cried the earl, "she acted by my directions. Take the chestaway, " he added to Judith. 

"Has your lordship no further orders?" she rejoined, significantly. 

"None whatever, " he replied, with a frown. 

"Before you go, give me the certificate, " cried Amabel. "I must haveit. "

Judith pretended not to hear her. "Give it her, " whispered the earl, "Iwill remove it when she falls asleep. "

Nodding acquiescence, Judith took the parchment from her bosom, andreturned with it to the bed. While this was passing, the earl walkedtowards the chest, and cast his eye over such of its contents as werescattered upon the floor. Judith watched him carefully, and when hisback was turned, drew a small lancet, and affecting to arrange herdress, slightly punctured Amabel's neck. The pain was trifling, but thepoor girl uttered a cry. 

"What is the matter?" cried the earl, turning suddenly round. 

"Nothing--nothing, " replied Judith; "a pin in my sleeve pricked her as Iwas fastening her cap, that was all. Her death is certain, " she added toherself, "she is inoculated with the plague-venom. "

She then went to the chest, and replacing everything within it, removedit, by the help of the Earl of Rochester, into the adjoining room. "Iwill send for it at midnight, " she said. 

"It shall be delivered to your messenger, " rejoined the earl; "but youwill answer for Chowles's secrecy?"

"I will, " returned Judith, with a meaning smile. "But you may take myword for it you will not be troubled long with your wife. If I have anyjudgment respecting the plague, she is already infected. "

"Indeed!" cried Rochester--"then--" but he checked himself, and added, "I do not believe it. Begone. "

"He _does_ believe it for all that, " muttered Judith, as he slunk away. 

Rochester returned to Amabel, and sat by her until she fell asleep, whenhe took the parchment from beneath the pillow where she had placed it. Examining it, he found it, as Judith had stated, a certificate of hismarriage, signed by Mark Vincent, the clergyman who had officiated, andduly attested. Having carefully perused it, he held it towards thetaper, with the intention of destroying it. As he was about toperpetrate this unworthy action, he looked towards the bed. The softsweet smile that played upon the sleeper's features, turned him from hispurpose. Placing the parchment in his doublet, he left the room, andsummoning a female attendant, alleged some reason for his unexpectedreturn, and ordered her to watch by the bedside of her mistress. Givingsome further directions, he threw himself upon a couch and sought a fewhours' repose. At daybreak, he repaired to Amabel's chamber, and findingher wrapped in a peaceful slumber, he commended her to the attendant, and departed. 

On awaking, Amabel complained of an uneasy sensation on her neck, andthe attendant examining the spot, found, to her great alarm, a small redpustule. Without making a single observation, she left the room, anddespatched a messenger after the Earl of Rochester to acquaint him thatthe countess was attacked by the plague. Such was the terror inspired bythis dread disorder, that the moment it was known that Amabel wasattacked by it, the whole household, except an old woman, fled. This oldwoman, whose name was Batley, and who acted as the earl's housekeeper, took upon herself the office of nurse. Before evening, the poorsufferer, who had endured great agony during the whole of the day, became so much worse, that Mrs. Batley ran out in search of assistance. She met with a watchman, who told her that a famous apothecary, fromClerkenwell, named Sibbald, who was celebrated for the cures he hadeffected, had just entered a neighbouring house, and offered to awaithis coming forth, and send him to her. Thanking him, Mrs. Batleyreturned to the house, and presently afterwards, Sibbald made hisappearance. His looks and person had become even more repulsive thanformerly. He desired to be led to the patient, and on seeing her, shookhis head. He examined the pustule, which had greatly increased in size, and turning away, muttered, "I can do nothing for her. "

"At least make the attempt, " implored Mrs. Batley. "She is the Countessof Rochester. You shall be well rewarded--and if you cure her, the earlwill make your fortune. "

"If his lordship would change stations with me, I could not cure her, "replied Sibbald. "Let me look at her again, " he added, examining thepustule. "There is a strange appearance about this tumour. Has JudithMalmayns attended her?"

"She was here yesterday, " replied Mrs. Batley. 

"I thought so, " he muttered. "I repeat it is all over with her. " And heturned to depart. 

"Do not leave her thus, in pity do not!" cried the old woman, detaininghim. "Make some effort to save her. My lord loves her to distraction, and will abundantly reward you. "

"All I can do is to give her something to allay the pain, " returnedSibbald. And drawing a small phial from his doublet, he poured itscontents into a glass, and administered it to the patient. 

"That will throw her into a slumber, " he said, "and when she wakes, shewill be without pain. But her end will be not far off. "

Mrs. Batley took a purse from a drawer in one of the cabinets, and gaveit to the apothecary, who bowed and retired. As he had foretold, Amabelfell into a heavy lethargy, which continued during the whole of thenight. Mrs. Batley, who had never left her, noticed that anextraordinary and fearful change had taken place in her countenance, andshe could not doubt that the apothecary's prediction would be realized. The tumour had increased in size, and was surrounded by a dusky browncircle, which she knew to be a bad sign. The sufferer's eyes, when sheopened them, and gazed around, had a dim and glazed look. But she wasperfectly calm and composed, and, as had been prognosticated, free frompain. She had, also, fully regained her faculties, and seemed quiteaware of her dangerous situation. 

But the return of reason brought with it no solace. On the contrary, theearl's treachery rushed upon her recollection, and gave her infinitelymore anguish than the bodily pain she had recently endured. She bedewedthe pillow with her tears, and fervently prayed for forgiveness for herinvoluntary fault. Mrs. Batley was deeply moved by her affliction, andoffered her every consolation in her power. 

"I would the plague had selected me for a victim instead of yourladyship, " she said. "It is hard to leave the world at your age, possessed of beauty, honours, and wealth. At mine, it would notsignify. "

"You mistake the cause of my grief, " returned Amabel; "I do not lamentthat my hour is at hand, but--" and her emotion so overpowered her thatshe could not proceed. 

"Do not disturb yourself further, dear lady, " rejoined the old woman. "Let the worst happen, I am sure you are well prepared to meet yourMaker. "

"I once was, " replied Amabel in a voice of despair, "but now--Oh, Heavenforgive me!"

"Shall I fetch some holy minister to pray beside you, my lady?" saidMrs. Batley; "one to whom you can pour forth the sorrows of your heart?"

"Do so! oh, do!" cried Amabel, "and do not call me lady. I am not worthyto be placed in the same rank as yourself. "

"Her wits are clean gone, " muttered Mrs. Batley, looking at hercompassionately. 

"Heed me not, " cried Amabel; "but if you have any pity for theunfortunate, do as you have promised. "

"I will--I will, " said Mrs. Batley, departing. 

Half an hour, which scarcely seemed a moment to the poor sufferer, whowas employed in fervent prayer, elapsed before Mrs. Batley returned. Shewas accompanied by a tall man, whom Amabel recognised as Solomon Eagle. 

"I have not been able to find a clergyman, " said the old woman, "but Ihave brought a devout man who is willing to pray with you. "

"Ah!" exclaimed the enthusiast, starting as he beheld Amabel. "Can it beMr. Bloundel's daughter?"

"It is, " returned Amabel with a groan. "Leave us, my good woman, " sheadded to Mrs. Batley, "I have something to impart to Solomon Eagle whichis for his ear alone. " The old woman instantly retired, and Amabelbriefly related her hapless story to the enthusiast. 

"May I hope for forgiveness?" she inquired, as she concluded. 

"Assuredly, " replied Solomon Eagle, "assuredly! You have not erredwilfully, but through ignorance, and therefore have committed nooffence. _You_ will be forgiven--but woe to your deceiver, here andhereafter. "

"Oh' say not so, " she cried. "May Heaven pardon him as I do. While Ihave strength left I will pray for him. " And she poured forth hersupplications for the earl in terms so earnest and pathetic, that thetears flowed down Solomon Eagle's rough cheek. At this juncture, hastysteps were heard in the adjoining passage, and the door opening, admitted the Earl of Rochester, who rushed towards the bed. 

"Back!" cried Solomon Eagle, pushing him forcibly aside. "Back!"

"What do you here?" cried Rochester, fiercely. 

"I am watching over the death-bed of your victim, " returned SolomonEagle. "Retire, my lord. You disturb her. "

"Oh, no, " returned Amabel, meekly. "Let him come near me. " And asSolomon Eagle drew a little aside, and allowed the earl to approach, sheadded, "With my latest breath I forgive you, my lord, for the wrong youhave done me, and bless you. "

The earl tried to speak, but his voice was suffocated by emotion. Assoon as he could find words, he said, "Your goodness completelyoverpowers me, dearest Amabel. Heaven is my witness, that even now Iwould make you all the reparation in my power were it needful. But it isnot so. The wrong I intended you was never committed. I myself wasdeceived. I intended a feigned marriage, but it was rightfullyperformed. Time will not allow me to enter into further particulars ofthe unhappy transaction, but you may credit my assertion when I tell youyou are indeed my wife, and Countess of Rochester. "

"If I thought so, I should die happy, " replied Amabel. 

"Behold this proof!" said Rochester, producing the certificate. 

"I cannot read it, " replied Amabel. "But you could not have the heart todeceive me now. "

"I will read it, and you well know _I_ would not deceive you, " criedSolomon Eagle, casting his eye over it--"His lordship has avouched thetruth, " he continued. "It is a certificate of your marriage with him, duly signed and attested. "

"God be thanked, " ejaculated Amabel, fervently. "God be thanked! Youhave been spared that guilt, and I shall die content. "

"I trust your life will long be spared, " rejoined the earl. Amabel shookher head. 

"There is but one man in this city who could save her, " whisperedSolomon Eagle, and I doubt even his power to do so. '

"Who do you mean?" cried Rochester, eagerly. 

"Doctor Hodges, " replied the enthusiast. 

"I know him well, " cried the earl. "I will fly to him instantly. Remainwith her till I return. "

"My lord--my dear lord, " interposed Amabel, faintly, "you troubleyourself needlessly. I am past all human aid. "

"Do not despair, " replied the earl. "Many years of happiness are, Itrust, in store for us. Do not detain me. I go to save you. Farewell fora short time. "

"Farewell, for ever, my lord, " she said, gently pressing his hand. "Weshall not meet again. Your name will be coupled with my latest breath. "

"I shall be completely unmanned if I stay here a moment longer, " criedthe earl, breaking from her, and rushing out of the room. 

As soon as he was gone, Amabel addressed herself once more to prayerwith Solomon Eagle, and in this way an hour passed by. The earl notreturning at the end of that time, Solomon Eagle became extremelyuneasy, every moment being of the utmost consequence, and summoning Mrs. Batley, committed the patient to her care, and set off in search ofHodges. He hastened to the doctor's house--he was absent--to SaintPaul's--he was not there, but he learnt that a person answering to theearl's description had been making similar inquiries after him. 

At last, one of the chirurgeon's assistants told him that he thought thedoctor was gone towards Cornhill, and hoping, accidentally, to meet withhim, the enthusiast set off in that direction. While passing near theExchange, he encountered Leonard, as before related, but did not thinkfit to acquaint him with more than Amabel's dangerous situation; and hehad reason to regret making the communication at all, on finding itseffect upon the poor youth. There was, however, no help for it, andplacing him in what appeared a situation of safety, he left him. 

Rochester, meanwhile, had been equally unsuccessful in his search forHodges. Hurrying first in one direction and then in another, at thesuggestion of the chirurgeon's assistant, he at last repaired to thedoctor's residence, determined to await his return. In half an hour hecame, and received the earl, as the old porter stated to Thirlby andLeonard, with angry astonishment. As soon as they were alone, the earltold him all that had occurred, and besought him to accompany him to thepoor sufferer. 

"I will go to her, " said Hodges, who had listened to the recital withmixed feelings of sorrow and indignation, "on one condition--and oneonly--namely, that your lordship does not see her again without mypermission. "

"Why do you impose this restriction upon, me sir?' demanded Rochester. 

"I do not think it necessary to give my reasons, my lord, " returnedHodges; "but I will only go upon such terms. "

"Then I must perforce submit, " replied the earl; "but I entreat you toset forth-without a moment's delay, or you will be too late. "

"I will follow you instantly, " rejoined Hodges. "Your lordship can waitfor me at the Southwark side of the bridge. " He then opened the door, reiterating the terms upon which alone he would attend, and the earldeparted. 

Shortly afterwards he set out, and making the best of his way, foundRochester at the appointed place. The latter conducted him to theentrance of the habitation, and indicating a spot where he would remaintill his return, left him. Hodges soon found his way to the chamber ofthe sufferer, and at once perceived that all human aid was vain. Sheexhibited much pleasure at seeing him, and looked round, as if in searchof the earl. Guessing her meaning, the physician, who now began toregret the interdiction he had placed upon him, told her that he was thecause of his absence. 

"It is well, " she murmured--"well. " She then made some inquiries afterher relatives, and receiving a satisfactory answer, said, "I am glad youare come. You will be able to tell my father how I died. "

"It will be a great comfort to him to learn the tranquil frame in whichI have found you, " replied Hodges. 

"How long have I to live?" asked Amabel, somewhat quickly. "Do notdeceive me. "

"You had better make your preparations without delay, " returned Hodges. 

"I understand, " she replied; and joining her hands upon her breast, shebegan to murmur a prayer. 

Hodges, who up to this moment had had some difficulty in repressing hisemotion, withdrew to a short distance to hide his fast-falling tears. Hewas roused shortly after, by a sudden and startling cry from the oldwoman. 

"Oh, sir, she is going! she is going!" ejaculated Mrs. Batley. He foundthe exclamation true. The eyes of the dying girl were closed. There wasa slight quiver of the lips, as if she murmured some name--probablyRochester's--and then all was over. 

Hodges gazed at her sorrowfully for some time. He then roused himself, and giving some necessary directions to the old woman respecting thebody, quitted the house. Not finding the earl at the place he hadappointed to meet him, after waiting for a short time, he proceeded, towards his own house. On the way he was net by Thirlby and Parravicin, as previously related, and conducted to the house in Nicholas-lane. Itwill not be necessary to recapitulate what subsequently occurred. Weshall, therefore, proceed to the point of time when he quitted his newpatient, and entered the room where Thirlby and Leonard were waiting forhim. Both, as has been stated, rushed towards him, and the formereagerly asked his opinion respecting his daughter. 

"My opinion is positive, " replied Hodges. "With care, she willundoubtedly recover. "

"Heaven be thanked!" cried Thirlby, dropping on his knees. 

"And now, one word to me, sir, " cried Leonard. "What of Amabel?"

"Alas!" exclaimed the doctor, "her troubles are ended. "

"Dead!" shrieked Leonard. 

"Ay, dead!" repeated the doctor. "She died of the plague to-night. "

He then proceeded to detail briefly all that had occurred. Leonardlistened like one stupefied, till he brought his recital to a close, andthen asking where the house in which she had died was situated, rushedout of the room, and made his way, he knew not how, into the street. Hisbrain seemed on fire, and he ran so quickly that his feet appearedscarcely to touch the ground. A few seconds brought him to LondonBridge. He crossed it, and turning down the street on the left, hadnearly reached the house to which he had been directed, when his careerwas suddenly checked. The gate of the court-yard was opened, and twomen, evidently, from their apparel, buriers of the dead, issued from it. They carried a long narrow board between them, with a body wrapped in awhite sheet placed upon it. A freezing horror rooted Leonard to the spotwhere he stood. He could neither move nor utter a cry. 

The men proceeded with their burden towards the adjoining habitation, which was marked with a fatal red cross and inscription. Before it stoodthe dead-cart, partly filled with corpses. The foremost burier carried alantern, but he held it so low that its light did not fall upon hisburden. Leonard, however, did not require to see the body to know whoseit was. The moon was at its full, and shed a ghastly light over thegroup, and a large bat wheeled in narrow circles round the dead-cart. 

On reaching the door of the house, the burier set down the lantern nearthe body of a young man which had just been thrust forth. At the samemoment, Chowles, with a lantern in his hand, stepped out upon thethreshold. "Who have you got, Jonas?" he asked. 

"I know not, " replied the hindmost burier. "We entered yon large house, the door of which stood open, and in one of the rooms found, an oldwoman in a fainting state, and the body of this young girl, wrapped in asheet, and ready for the cart. So we clapped it on the board, andbrought it away with us. "

"You did right, " replied Chowles. "I wonder whose body it is. "

As he spoke, he held up his lantern, and unfastening it, threw the lightfull upon the face. The features were pale as marble; calm in theirexpression, and like those of one wrapped in placid slumber. The longfair hair hung over the side of the board. It was a sad and touchingsight. 

"Why, as I am a living man, it is the grocer's daughter, Amabel, --somewhile Countess of Rochester!" exclaimed Chowles. 

"It is, it is!" cried the earl, suddenly rushing from behind a buildingwhere he had hitherto remained concealed. "Whither are you about to takeher? Set her down--set her down. "

"Hinder them not, my lord, " vociferated another person, also appearingon the scene with equal suddenness. "Place her in the cart, " criedSolomon Eagle--for he it was--to the bearers. "This is a just punishmentupon you, my lord, " he added to Rochester, as his injunctions wereobeyed--"oppose them not in their duty. "

It was not in the earl's power to do so. Like Leonard, he was transfixedwith horror. The other bodies were soon placed in the cart, and it wasput in motion. At this juncture, the apprentice's suspended facultieswere for an instant--and an instant only--restored to him. He uttered apiercing cry, and staggering forward, fell senseless on the ground. 

BOOK THE FIFTH. 

DECEMBER, 1665. 

I. 

THE DECLINE OF THE PLAGUE. 

More than two months must be passed over in silence. During that time, the pestilence had so greatly abated as no longer to occasion alarm tothose who had escaped its ravages. It has been mentioned that thedistemper arrived at its height about the 10th of September, and thoughfor the two following weeks the decline was scarcely perceptible, yet ithad already commenced. On the last week in that fatal month, when allhope had been abandoned, the bills of mortality suddenly decreased innumber to one thousand eight hundred and thirty-four. And this fortunatechange could not be attributed to the want of materials to act upon, forthe sick continued as numerous as before, while the deaths were lessfrequent. In the next week there was a further decrease of six hundred;in the next after that of six hundred; and so on till the end ofOctober, when, the cold weather setting in, the amount was reduced tonearly one thousand. 

At first, when the distemper began to lose somewhat of its malignancy, afew scared individuals appeared in the streets, but carefully shunnedeach other. In a few days, however, considerable numbers joined them, and for the first time for nearly three months there was something likelife abroad. It is astonishing how soon hope and confidence are revived. Now that it could no longer be doubted that the plague was on thedecline, it seemed as if a miracle had been performed in favour of thecity. Houses were opened--shopkeepers resumed their business--and it wasa marvel to every one that so many persons were left alive. Dejectionand despair of the darkest kind were succeeded by frenzied delight, andno bound was put to the public satisfaction. Strangers stopped eachother in the streets, and conversed together like old friends. Thebells, that had grown hoarse with tolling funerals, were now crackedwith joyous peals. The general joy extended even to the sick, and many, buoyed up by hope, recovered, when in the former season of despondencythey would inevitably have perished. All fear of the plague seemed tovanish with the flying disorder. Those who were scarcely out of dangerjoined in the throng, and it was no uncommon sight to see men withbandages round their necks, or supported by staves and crutches, shakinghands with their friends, and even embracing them. 

The consequence of this incautious conduct may be easily foreseen. Theplague had received too severe a check to burst forth anew; but itspread further than it otherwise would have done, and attacked manypersons, who but for their own imprudence would have escaped. Amongstothers, a barber in Saint Martin's-le-Grand, who had fled into thecountry in August, returned to his shop in the middle of October, and, catching the disorder from one of his customers, perished with the wholeof his family. 

But these, and several other equally fatal instances, produced no effecton the multitude. Fully persuaded that the virulence of the disorder wasexhausted--as, indeed, appeared to be the case--they gave free scope totheir satisfaction, which was greater than was ever experienced by theinhabitants of a besieged city reduced by famine to the last strait ofdespair, and suddenly restored to freedom and plenty. The more piouspart of the community thronged to the churches, from which they had beenso long absent, and returned thanks for their unexpected deliverance. Others, who had been terrified into seriousness and devotion, speedilyforgot their former terrors, and resumed their old habits. Profanenessand debauchery again prevailed, and the taverns were as well filled asthe churches. Solomon Eagle continued his midnight courses through thestreets; but he could no longer find an audience as before. Those wholistened to him only laughed at his denunciations of a new judgment, andtold him his preachings and prophesyings were now completely out ofdate. 

By this time numbers of those who had quitted London having returned toit, the streets began to resume their wonted appearance. The utmost carewas taken by the authorities to cleanse and purify the houses, in orderto remove all chance of keeping alive the infection. Every room in everyhabitation where a person had died of the plague--and there were fewthat had escaped the visitation--was ordered to be whitewashed, and thestrongest fumigations were employed to remove the pestilential effluvia. Brimstone, resin, and pitch were burnt in the houses of the poor;benjamin, myrrh, and other more expensive perfumes in those of therich; while vast quantities of powder were consumed in creating blaststo carry off the foul air. Large and constant fires were kept in all thehouses, and several were burnt down in consequence of the negligence oftheir owners. 

All goods, clothes, and bedding, capable of harbouring infection, werecondemned to be publicly burned, and vast bonfires were lighted inFinsbury Fields and elsewhere, into which many hundred cart-loads ofsuch articles were thrown. The whole of Chowles's hoard, except theplate, which he managed, with Judith's aid, to carry off and conceal incertain hiding-places in the vaults of Saint Faith's, was taken from thehouse in Nicholas-lane, and cast into the fire. 

The cathedral was one of the first places ordered to be purified. Thepallets of the sick were removed and burned, and all the stains andimpurities with which its floor and columns were polluted were cleansed. Nothing was left untried to free it from infection. It was washedthroughout with vinegar, fumigated with the strongest scents, andseveral large barrels of pitch were set fire to in the aisles. "

"It shall undergo another species of purification, " said Solomon Eagle, who was present during these proceedings; "one that shall search everynook within it--shall embrace all those columns, and pierce every crackand crevice in those sculptured ornaments; and then, and not till then, will it be thoroughly cleansed. "

During all this time the grocer had not opened his dwelling. The wisdomof this plan was now made fully apparent. The plague was declining fast, and not an inmate of his house had been attacked by it. Soon after themelancholy occurrence, he had been informed by Doctor Hodges of Amabel'sdeath; but the humane physician concealed from him the painfulcircumstances under which it occurred. It required all Mr. Bloundel'sfortitude to support him under the shock of this intelligence, and hedid not communicate the afflicting tidings to his wife until he hadprepared her for their reception. But she bore them better than he hadanticipated; and though she mourned her daughter deeply and truly, sheappeared completely resigned to the loss. Sorrow pervaded the wholehousehold for some weeks; and the grocer, who never relaxed his system, shrouded his sufferings under the appearance of additional austerity ofmanner. It would have been a great consolation to him to see LeonardHolt; but the apprentice had disappeared; and even Doctor Hodges couldgive no account of him. 

One night, in the middle of November, Mr. Bloundel signified to his wifehis intention of going forth, early on the following morning, to satisfyhimself that the plague was really abating. Accordingly, after he hadfinished his devotions, and broken his fast, he put his design intoexecution. His first act, after locking the door behind him, which hedid as a measure of precaution, was to fall on his knees and offer upprayers to Heaven for his signal preservation. He then arose, and, stepping into the middle of the street, gazed at the habitation whichhad formed his prison and refuge for nearly six months. There it was, with its shutters closed and barred--a secure asylum, with all alivewithin it, while every other dwelling in the street was desolate. 

The grocer's sensations were novel and extraordinary. His first impulsewas to enjoy his newly-recovered freedom, and to put himself into activemotion. But he checked the feeling as sinful, and proceeded along thestreet at a slow pace. He did not meet a single person, until he reachedCheapside, where he found matters completely changed. Several shops werealready opened, and there were a few carts and other vehicles trackingtheir way through the broad and yet grass-grown street. It was a clear, frosty morning, and there was a healthful feel in the bracing atmospherethat produced an exhilarating effect on the spirits. The grocer pursuedhis course through the middle of the street, carefully avoiding allcontact with such persons as he encountered, though he cordiallyreturned their greetings, and wandered on, scarcely knowing whither hewas going, but deeply interested in all he beheld. 

The aspect of the city was indeed most curious. The houses were for themost part unoccupied--the streets overgrown with grass--while everyobject, animate and inanimate, bore some marks of the recent visitation. Still, all looked hopeful, and the grocer could not doubt that the worstwas past. The different demeanour of the various individuals he metstruck him. Now he passed a young man whistling cheerily, who salutedhim, and said, "I have lost my sweetheart by the plague, but I shallsoon get another. " The next was a grave man, who muttered, "I have lostall, " and walked pensively on. Then came others in different moods; butall concurred in thinking that the plague was at an end; and the grocerderived additional confirmation of the fact from meeting numerous cartsand other vehicles bringing families back to their houses from thecountry. 

After roaming about for several hours, and pondering on all he saw, hefound himself before the great western entrance of Saint Paul's. Itchanced to be the morning on which the pallets and bedding were broughtforth, and he watched the proceeding at a distance. All had beenremoved, and he was about to depart, when he perceived a person seatedon a block of stone, not far from him, whom he instantly recognised. "Leonard, " he cried--"Leonard Holt, is it you?"

Thus addressed, and in these familiar tones, the apprentice looked up, and Mr. Bloundel started at the change that had taken place in him. Profound grief was written in every line of his thin and haggardcountenance; his eyes were hollow, and had the most melancholyexpression imaginable; and his flesh was wasted away from the bone. Helooked the very image of hopeless affliction. 

"I am sorry to find you in this state, Leonard, " said the grocer, in atone of deep commiseration; "but I am well aware of the cause. I myselfhave suffered severely; but I deem it my duty to control my affliction. "

"I _would_ control it, if it were possible, Mr. Bloundel, " repliedLeonard. "But hope is dead in my breast. I shall never be happy again. "

"I trust otherwise, " replied the grocer, kindly. "Your trials have beenvery great, and so were those of the poor creature we both of usdeplore. But she is at peace, and therefore we need not lament her. "

"Alas!" exclaimed Leonard, mournfully, "I am now only anxious to rejoinher. "

"It is selfish, if not sinful, to grieve in this way, " rejoined Mr. Bloundel, somewhat sternly. "You must bear your sorrows like a man. Comehome with me. I will be a father to you. Nay, do not hesitate. I willhave no refusal. "

So saying, he took Leonard's arm, and led him in the direction ofWood-street. Nothing passed between them on the way, nor did Leonardevince any further emotion until he entered the door of the grocer'sdwelling, when he uttered a deep groan. Mrs. Bloundel was greatlyaffected at seeing him, as were the rest of the family, and abundance oftears were shed by all, except Mr. Bloundel, who maintained hiscustomary stoical demeanour throughout the meeting. 

Satisfied that the pestilence had not declined sufficiently to warranthim in opening his house, the grocer determined to await the result of afew weeks. Indeed, that very night, he had reason to think he haddefeated his plans by precipitancy. While sitting after prayers with hisfamily, he was seized with a sudden shivering and sickness, which hecould not doubt were the precursors of the plague. He was greatlyalarmed, but did not lose his command over himself. 

"I have been most imprudent, " he said, "in thus exposing myself toinfection. I have symptoms of the plague about me, and will instantlyrepair to one of the upper rooms which I have laid aside as an hospital, in case of any emergency like the present. None of you must attend me. Leonard will fetch Doctor Hodges and a nurse. I shall then do very well. Farewell, dear wife and children! God bless you all, and watch over you. Remember me in your prayers. " So saying, he arose and walked towards thedoor. His wife and eldest son would have assisted him, but he motionedthem away. 

"Let me go with you, sir, " cried Leonard, who had arisen with theothers; "I will nurse you; my life is of little consequence, and Icannot be more satisfactorily employed. "

The grocer reluctantly assented, and the apprentice assisted himupstairs, and helped to place him in bed. No plague-token could be foundabout his person, but as the same alarming symptoms still continued, Leonard administered such remedies as he thought needful, and then wentin search of Doctor Hodges. 

On reaching Watling-street, he found Doctor Hodges about to retire torest. The worthy physician was greatly distressed by the apprentice'saccount of his master's illness; but was somewhat reassured when thesymptoms were more minutely described to him. While preparing certainmedicines, and arming himself with his surgical implements, hequestioned Leonard as to the cause of his long disappearance. "Havingseen nothing of you, " he said, "since the fatal night when our poorAmabel's sorrows were ended, I began to feel very apprehensive on youraccount. Where have you been?"

"You shall hear, " replied Leonard, "though the relation will be likeopening my wounds afresh. On recovering from the terrible shock I hadreceived, I found myself stretched upon a bed in a house whither I hadbeen conveyed by Rainbird the watchman, who had discovered me lying in astate of insensibility in the street. For nearly a week I continueddelirious, and should, probably, have lost my senses altogether but forthe attentions of the watchman. As soon as I was able to move, Iwandered to the lesser plague-pit, in Finsbury Fields, you will guesswith what intent. My heart seemed breaking, and I thought I should pourforth my very soul in grief, as I gazed into that dreadful gulf, andthought she was there interred. Still my tears were a relief. Everyevening, for a month, I went to that sad spot, and remained there tilldaybreak admonished me to return to Rainbird's dwelling. At last, he wasseized by the distemper; but though I nursed him, voluntarily exposingmyself to infection, and praying to be carried off, I remaineduntouched. Poor Rainbird died; and having seen his body thrown into thepit, I set off into Berkshire, and after three days' toilsome travel onfoot, reached Ashdown Park. It was a melancholy pleasure to behold theabode where she I had loved passed her last few days of happiness, andwhere I had been near her. Her aunt, good Mrs. Buscot, thoughoverwhelmed by affliction at the sad tidings I brought her, received mewith the utmost kindness, and tried to console me. My sorrow, however, was too deeply seated to be removed. Wandering over the downs, I visitedMrs. Compton at Kingston Lisle, from whose house Amabel was carried offby the perfidious earl. She, also, received me with kindness, andstrove, like Mrs. Buscot, to comfort me, and, like her, ineffectually. Finding my strength declining, and persuaded that my days were drawingto a close, I retraced my steps to London, hoping to find a finalresting-place near her I had loved. "

"You are, indeed, faithful to the grave, Leonard, " said the physician, brushing away a tear; "and I never heard or read of affection strongerthan yours. Sorrow is a great purifier, and you will come out all thebetter for your trial. You are yet young, and though you never can loveas you _have_ loved, a second time, your heart is not utterly seared. "

"Utterly, sir, " echoed Leonard, "utterly. "

"You think so, now, " rejoined the physician. "But you will find itotherwise hereafter. I can tell you of one person who has sufferedalmost as much from your absence as you have done for the loss ofAmabel. The Lady Isabella Argentine has made constant inquiries afteryou; and though I should be the last person to try to rouse you fromyour present state of despondency, by awakening hopes of alliance withthe sister of a proud noble, yet it may afford you consolation to knowthat she still cherishes the warmest regard for you. "

"I am grateful to her, " replied Leonard, sadly, but without exhibitingany other emotion. "She was dear to Amabel, and therefore will be everdear to me. I would fain know, " he added, his brow suddenly contracting, and his lip quivering, "what has become of the Earl of Rochester?"

"He has married a wealthy heiress, the fair Mistress Mallet, " repliedHodges. 

"Married, and so soon!" cried Leonard. "And he has quite forgotten hisvictim?"

"Apparently so, " replied the doctor, with an expression of disgust. 

"And it was for one who so lightly regarded her that she sacrificedherself, " groaned Leonard, his head dropping upon his breast. 

"Come, " cried Hodges, taking his arm, and leading him out of the room;"we must go and look after your master. "

With this, they made the best of their way to Wood-street. Arrived atthe grocer's house, they went upstairs, and Hodges immediatelypronounced Mr. Bloundel to be suffering from a slight feverish attack, which a sudorific powder would remove. Having administered the remedy, he descended to the lower room to allay the fears of the family. Mrs. Bloundel received the happy tidings with tears of joy, and the doctorremained a short time to condole with her on the loss she had sustained. The good dame wept bitterly on hearing the whole particulars, with whichshe had been hitherto unacquainted, attending her daughter's untimelydeath, but she soon regained her composure. They then spoke of Leonard, who had remained above with his master, --of his blighted hopes, andseemingly incurable affliction. 

"His is true love, indeed, doctor, " sighed Mrs. Bloundel. "Pity it isthat it could not be requited. "

"I know not how it is, " rejoined Hodges, "and will not question thedecrees of our All-Wise Ruler, but the strongest affection seldom, ifever, meets a return. Leonard himself was insensible to the devotion ofone, of whom I may say, without disparagement to our poor Amabel, thatshe was, in my opinion, her superior in beauty. "

"And does this person love him still?" inquired Mrs. Bloundel, eagerly. "I ask, because I regard him as a son, and earnestly desire to restorehim to happiness. "

"Alas!" exclaimed Hodges, "there are obstacles in the way that cannot beremoved. We must endeavour to cure him of his grief in some other way. "

The conversation then dropped, and Hodges took his leave, promising toreturn on the morrow, and assuring Mrs. Bloundel that she need be underno further apprehension about her husband. And so it proved. Thepowders removed all the grocer's feverish symptoms, and when DoctorHodges made his appearance the next day, he found him dressed, and readyto go downstairs. Having received the physician's congratulations on hisentire recovery, Mr. Bloundel inquired from him when he thought he mightwith entire safety open his shop. Hodges considered for a moment, andthen replied, "I do not see any great risk in doing so now, but I wouldadvise you to defer the step for a fortnight. I would, also, recommendyou to take the whole of your family for a short time into the country. Pure air and change of scene are absolutely necessary after their longconfinement. "

"Farmer Wingfield, of Kensal-Green, who sheltered us on our way down toAshdown Park, will, I am sure, receive you, " observed Leonard. 

"If so, you cannot go to a better place, " rejoined the physician. 

"I will think of it, " returned Mr. Bloundel. And leading the waydownstairs, he was welcomed by his wife and children with the warmestdemonstrations of delight. 

"My fears, you perceive, were groundless, " he remarked to Mrs. Bloundel. 

"Heaven be praised, they were so!" she rejoined. "But I entreat you notto go forth again till all danger is at an end. "

"Rest assured I will not, " he answered. Soon after this, Doctor Hodgestook his leave, and had already reached the street-door, when he wasarrested by Patience, who inquired with much anxiety whether he knewanything of Blaize. 

"Make yourself easy about him, child, " replied the doctor; "I am prettysure he is safe and sound. He has had the plague, certainly; but he leftthe hospital at Saint Paul's cured. 

"O then I _shall_ see him again, " cried Patience, joyfully. "Poor dearlittle fellow, it would break my heart to lose him. "

"I will make inquiries about him, " rejoined Hodges, "and if I can findhim, will send him home. " And without waiting to receive thekitchen-maid's thanks, he departed. 

For some days the grocer continued to pursue pretty nearly the same lineof conduct that he had adopted during the height of the pestilence. Buthe did not neglect to make preparations for resuming his business; andhere Leonard was of material assistance to him. They often spoke ofAmabel, and Mr. Bloundel strove, by every argument he was master of, toremove the weight of affliction under which his apprentice laboured. Heso far succeeded that Leonard's health improved, though he still seemeda prey to secret sorrow. Things were in this state, when one day a knockwas heard at the street-door, and the summons being answered by thegrocer's eldest son, Stephen, he returned with the intelligence that aperson was without who desired to see Patience. After someconsideration, Mr. Bloundel summoned the kitchen-maid, and told her shemight admit the stranger into the passage, and hear what he had to say. Patience hastened with a beating heart to the door, expecting to learnsome tidings of Blaize, and opening it, admitted a man wrapped in alarge cloak and having a broad-leaved hat pulled over his brows. Stepping into the passage, he threw aside the cloak and raised the hat, discovering the figure and features of Pillichody. 

"What brings you here, sir?" demanded Patience, in alarm, and glancingover her shoulder to see whether any one observed them. "What do youwant?"

"I have brought you news of Blaize, " returned the bully. "But howcharmingly you look. By the coral lips of Venus! your long confinementhas added to your attractions. "

"Never mind my attractions, sir, " rejoined Patience, impatiently. "Whereis Blaize? Why did he not come with you?"

"Alas!" replied Pillichody, shaking his head in a melancholy manner, "hecould not. "

"Could not!" half screamed Patience. "Why not?"

"Do not question me, " replied Pillichody, feigning to brush away a tear. "He was my friend, and I would rather banish him from my memory. Thesight of your beauty transports me so, that, by the treasures ofCroesus! I would rather have you without a crown than the wealthiestwidow in the country. "

"Don't talk nonsense to me in this way, " sobbed Patience "I'm not in thehumour for it. "

"Nonsense!" echoed Pillichody. "I swear to you I am in earnest. ByCupid! I am ravished with your charms. " And he would have seized herhand, but Patience hastily withdrew it; and, provoked at hisimpertinence, dealt him a sound box on the ear. As she did this, shethought she heard a suppressed laugh near her, and looked round, butcould see no one. The sound certainly did not proceed from Pillichody, for he looked very red and very angry. 

"Do not repeat this affront, mistress, " he said to her. "I can bearanything but a blow from your sex. "

"Then tell me what has become of Blaize, " she cried. 

"I will no longer spare your feelings, " he rejoined. "He is defunct. "

"Defunct!" echoed Patience, with a scream. "Oh, dear me!--I shall neversurvive it--I shall die. "

"Not while I am left to supply his place, " cried Pillichody, catchingher in his arms. 

"You!" cried Patience, contemptuously; "I would not have you for theworld. Where is he buried?"

"In the plague-pit, " replied Pillichody. "I attended him during hisillness. It was his second attack of the disorder. He spoke of you. "

"Did he?--dear little fellow!" she exclaimed. "Oh, what did he say?"

"'Tell her, ' he cried, " rejoined Pillichody, "'that my last thoughtswere of her. '"

"Oh, dear! oh, dear!" cried Patience, hysterically. 

"'Tell her also, ' he added, " pursued Pillichody, "'that I trust she willfulfil my last injunction. '"

"That I will, " replied Patience. "Name it. "

"He conjured you to marry me, " replied Pillichody. "I am sure you willnot hesitate to comply with the request. "

"I don't believe a word of this, " cried Patience. "Blaize was a greatdeal too jealous to bequeath me to another. "

"Right, sweetheart, right, " cried the individual in question, pushingopen the door. "This has all been done to try your fidelity. I am nowfully satisfied with your attachment; and am ready to marry you wheneveryou please. "

"So this was all a trick, " cried Patience, pettishly; "I wish I hadknown it, I would have retaliated upon you nicely. You ought to beashamed of yourself, Major Pillichody, to lend a helping-hand in such aridiculous affair. "

"I did it to oblige my friend Blaize, " replied Pillichody. "It wasagreed between us that if you showed any inconstancy, you were to bemine. "

"Indeed!" exclaimed Patience. "I would not advise you to repeat theexperiment, Mr. Blaize. "

"I never intend to do so, my angel, " replied the porter. "I esteemmyself the happiest and most fortunate of men. "

"You have great reason to do so, " observed Pillichody. "I do not despairof supplanting him yet, " he muttered to himself. "And now, farewell!" headded aloud; "I am only in the way, and besides, I have no particulardesire to encounter Mr. Bloundel or his apprentice;" and winking hissolitary orb significantly at Patience, he strutted away. It was well hetook that opportunity of departing, for the lovers' raptures wereinstantly afterwards interrupted by the appearance of Mr. Bloundel, whowas greatly delighted to see the porter, and gave him a hearty welcome. 

"Ah, sir, I have had a narrow escape, " cried Blaize, "and never moreexpected to see you, or my mother, or Patience. I _have_ had the plague, sir, and a terrible disorder it is. "

"I heard or your seizure from Leonard Holt, " replied Mr. Bloundel. "Butwhere have you been since you left the hospital at Saint Paul's?"

"In the country, sir, " rejoined Blaize; "sometimes at one farm-house, and sometimes at another. I only returned to London yesterday, and metan old friend, whom I begged to go before me, and see that all was rightbefore I ventured, in. "

"We have all been providentially spared, " observed Mr. Bloundel, "andyou will find your mother as well as when you last quitted her. You hadbetter go to her. "

Blaize obeyed, and was received by old Josyna with a scream of delight. Having embraced him, and sobbed over him, she ran for a bottle of sack, and poured its contents down his throat so hastily as nearly to chokehim. She then spread abundance of eatables before him, and after he hadeaten and drank his full, offered him as a treat a little of the plaguemedicine which she had in reserve. 

"No, thank you, mother, " replied Blaize. "I have had enough of _that_. But if there should be a box of rufuses amongst the store, you can bringit, as I think a couple might do me good. "

Three days after this event, the apprentice was sent forth to ascertainthe precise state of the city, as, if all proved favourable, the grocerproposed to open his house on the following day. Leonard set outbetimes, and was speedily convinced that all danger was at an end. Asevere frost had set in, and had completely purified the air. For thelast few days there had been no deaths of the plague, and but littlemortality of any kind. Leonard traversed several of the main streets, and some narrow thoroughfares, and found evidences of restored healthand confidence everywhere. It is true there were many houses, in whichwhole families had been swept off, still left untenanted. But these wereonly memorials of the past calamity, and could not be referred to anyexisting danger. Before returning to Wood-street, an irresistibleimpulse led him to Finsbury Fields. He passed through the postern eastof Cripplegate, and shaped his way towards the lesser plague-pit. Thesun, which had been bright all the morning, was now partially obscured;the air had grown thick, and a little snow fell. The ground wasblackened and bound by the hard frost, and the stiffened grass feltcrisp beneath his feet. Insensible to all external circumstances, hehurried forward, taking the most direct course, and leaping everyimpediment in his path. Having crossed several fields, he at lengthstood before a swollen heap of clay, round which a wooden railing wasplaced. Springing over the enclosure, and uttering a wild cry thatevinced the uncontrollable anguish of his breast, he flung himself uponthe mound. He remained for some time in the deepest affliction, and wasat last roused by. A hand laid upon his shoulder, and, raising himself, beheld Thirlby. 

"I thought it must be you, " said the new comer, in accents of thedeepest commiseration. "I have been visiting yonder plague-pit for thesame melancholy purpose as yourself, --to mourn over my lost child. Ihave been in search of you, and have much to say to you. Will you meetme in this place at midnight tomorrow?" Leonard signified his assent. 

"I am in danger, " pursued Thirlby, "for, by some means, the secret of myexistence has been made known, and the officers of justice are inpursuit of me. I suspect that Judith Malmayns is my betrayer. You willnot fail me?"

"I will not, " returned Leonard. Upon this, Thirlby hurried away, andleaping a hedge, disappeared from view. 

Leonard slowly and sorrowfully returned to Wood-street. On arrivingthere, he assured his master that he might with entire safety open hishouse, as he proposed, on the morrow; and Doctor Hodges, who visited thegrocer the same evening, confirmed the opinion. Early, therefore, thenext morning, Mr. Bloundel summoned his family to prayers; and afterpouring forth his supplications with peculiar fervour and solemnity, hewent, accompanied by them all, and threw open the street-door. Again, kneeling down at the threshold, he prayed fervently, as before. He thenproceeded to remove the bars and shutters from the windows. Thetransition from gloom and darkness to bright daylight was almostoverpowering. For the first time for six months, the imprisoned familylooked forth on the external world, and were dazzled and bewildered bythe sight. The grocer himself, despite his sober judgment, couldscarcely believe he had not been in a trance during the whole period. The shop was scarcely opened before it was filled with customers, andLeonard and Stephen were instantly employed. But the grocer would sellnothing. To those who asked for any article he possessed, he presentedthem with it, but would receive no payment. 

He next dispatched Blaize to bring together all the poor he could find, and distributed among them the remainder of his store--his casks offlour, his salted meat, his cheeses, his biscuits, his wine--in short, all that was left. 

"This I give, " he said, "as a thanksgiving to the Lord, and as a humbletestimony of gratitude for my signal deliverance. "

II. 

THE MIDNIGHT MEETING. 

The first day of his deliverance being spent by the grocer in thepraiseworthy manner before related, he laid his head upon his pillowwith a feeling of satisfaction such as he had not for monthsexperienced. A very remarkable dream occurred to him that night, and itsrecollection afterwards afforded him the greatest consolation. Whilethinking of Amabel, and of the delight her presence would have affordedhim, slumber stole upon him, and his dreams were naturally influenced byhis previous meditations. It appeared to him that he was alone withinhis house, and while visiting one of the upper rooms, which had formerlybeen appropriated to his lost daughter, he noticed a small door in thewall that had never before attracted his attention. He immediatelypushed against it, and yielding to the touch, it admitted him to anapartment with which he seemed acquainted, though he could not recallthe time when he had seen it. It was large and gloomy, panelled withdark and lustrous oak, and filled with rich but decayed furniture. Atthe further end stood a large antique bed, hung round with tarnishedbrocade curtains. The grocer shuddered at the sight, for he rememberedto have heard Doctor Hodges assert, that in such a bed, and in such aroom as this, his daughter had breathed her last. Some one appeared tobe within the bed, and rushing forward with a throbbing heart, and aforeboding of what was to follow, he beheld the form of Amabel. Yes, there she was, with features like those she wore on earth, but clothedwith such celestial beauty, and bearing the impress of such serenehappiness, that the grocer felt awe-struck as he gazed at her!

"Approach, my father, " said the visionary form, in a voice so musicalthat it thrilled through his frame--"approach, and let what you now hearbe for ever graven upon your heart. Do not lament me more, but ratherrejoice that I am removed from trouble, and in the enjoyment of supremefelicity. Such a state you will yourself attain. You have run the goodrace, and will assuredly reap your reward. Comfort my dear mother, mybrothers, my little sister, with the assurance of what I tell you, andbid them dry their tears. I can now read the secrets of all hearts, andknow how true was Leonard Holt's love for me, and how deep and sincereis his present sorrow. But I am not permitted to appear to him as I nowappear to you. Often have I heard him invoke me in accents of thewildest despair, and have floated past him on the midnight breeze, butcould neither impart consolation to him nor make him sensible of mypresence, because his grief was sinful. Bid him be comforted. Bid himput a due control upon his feelings. Bid him open his heart anew, and heshall yet be happy, yet love again, and have his love requited. Farewell, dear father!"

And with these words the curtains of the bed closed. The grocerstretched out his arm to draw them aside, and in the effort awoke. Heslept no more that night, but dwelt with unutterable delight on thewords he had heard. On rising, his first object was to seek out Leonard, and to relate his vision to him. The apprentice listened in speechlesswonder, and remained for some time lost in reflection. 

"From any other person than yourself, sir, " he said, at length, "I mighthave doubted this singular story, but coming from you, I attach implicitcredence to it. I _will_ obey your sainted daughter's injunctions; I_will_ struggle against the grief that overwhelms me, and will try tohope that her words may be fulfilled. "

"You will do wisely, " rejoined Mr. Bloundel. "After breakfast we willwalk together to the farmhouse you spoke of at Kensal Green, and if itsowner should prove willing to receive my family for a few weeks, I willremove them thither at once. "

Leonard applauded his master's resolution, expressing his firmconviction that Farmer Wingfield would readily accede to the proposal, and the rest of the family having by this time assembled, they sat downto breakfast. As soon as the meal was over, Mr. Bloundel intrusted thecare of the shop to Stephen and Blaize, and accompanied by Leonard, setforth. On the way to the west end of the town, the grocer met one or twoof his old friends, and they welcomed each other like men risen from thegrave. Their course took them through Saint Giles's, where the plaguehad raged with the greatest severity, and where many houses were stillwithout tenants. 

"If all had acted as I have done, " sighed the grocer, as he gazed atthese desolate habitations, "how many lives, under God's providence, would have been saved!"

"In my opinion, sir, " replied Leonard, "you owe your preservation asmuch to your piety as to your prudence. "

"I have placed my trust on high, " rejoined the grocer, "and have notbeen forsaken. And yet many evil doers have escaped; amongst others--"

"I know whom you mean, sir, " interrupted Leonard, with some fierceness, "but a day of retribution will arrive for him. "

"No more of this, " rejoined the grocer, severely. "Remember the solemninjunction you have received. "

At this moment they observed a horseman, richly attired, and followed bya couple of attendants, riding rapidly towards them. Both instantlyrecognised him. The apprentice's cheek and brow flushed with anger, andMr. Bloundel had much ado to control his emotion. It was the Earl ofRochester, and on seeing them he instantly dismounted, and flinging hisbridle to one of the attendants, advanced towards them. Noticing thefury that gleamed in Leonard's eyes, and apprehending some violence onhis part, the grocer laid his hand, upon his arm, and sternly enjoinedhim to calm himself. 

By this time, the earl had reached them. "Mr. Bloundel, " he said, in atone of much emotion, and with a look that seemed to bespeak contrition. "I heard that you had opened your house yesterday, and was about to callupon you. I have a few words to say to you on a subject painful to bothof us, but doubly painful to me--your daughter. "

"I must decline to hear them, my lord, " replied the grocer, coldly; "norshall you ever cross my threshold again with my consent. My poor childis now at peace. You can do her no further injury, and must settle yourown account with your Maker. "

"Do not refuse me your forgiveness, " implored the earl. "I will makeevery reparation in my power. "

"You _can_ make none, " replied the grocer, repelling him; "and as to myforgiveness, I neither refuse it nor accord it. I pray your lordship tolet me pass. The sole favour I ask of you is to come near me no more. "

"I obey you, " replied the earl. "Stay, " he added to Leonard, who stoodby, regarding him with a look of deadly animosity. "I would give you apiece of caution. Your life is in danger. "

"I can easily guess from whom, " replied the apprentice, scornfully. 

"You mistake, " rejoined Rochester; "you have nothing to apprehend fromme. You have promised to meet some one to-night, " he added, in so low atone as to be inaudible to the grocer. "Do not go. "

"Your lordship's warning will not deter me, " rejoined the apprentice. 

"As you will, " rejoined Rochester, turning away. And springing upon hishorse, and striking his spurs into his side, he dashed off, whileLeonard and the grocer took the opposite direction. In less than half anhour they reached the little village of Paddington, then consisting of afew houses, but now one of the most populous and important parishes ofthe metropolis, and speedily gained the open country. Even at thisdreary season the country had charms, which Mr. Bloundel, after his longconfinement, could fully appreciate. His eye roamed over the wideprospect; and the leafless trees, the bare hedges, and the frost-boundfields seemed pleasant in his sight. 

He quickened his pace, and being wholly indifferent to the cold, greatlyenjoyed the exercise. Leonard pointed out to him the spots where thefugitives from the plague had pitched their tents, and also thepest-house near Westbourne Green, where he himself had been receivedduring his second attack of the distemper, and which was now altogetherabandoned. 

Soon after this, they mounted the hill beyond Kensal Green, andapproached the farmhouse. Leonard descried Wingfield near one of thebarns, and hailing him, he immediately came forward. On being informedof Mr. Bloundel's desire, he at once assented, and taking them into thehouse, mentioned the matter to his dame, who was quite of the sameopinion as himself. 

"The only difference between us, " he said to Mr. Bloundel, "is as to thepayment you propose. Now I will take none--not a farthing. Come when youplease, bring whom you please, and stay as long as you please. But don'toffer me anything if you would not offend me. Recollect, " he added, themoisture forcing itself into his eyes, and his strong clear voicebecoming husky with emotion, "that I loved your daughter for herresemblance to my poor child. She, too, is gone. I do this for hersake. "

Mr. Bloundel shook the worthy man warmly by the hand, but he made nofurther objection, resolved in his own mind to find some other means ofrequiting his hospitality. It was then agreed that the grocer shouldbring his family on the following day, and remain there for a month; andevery other arrangement being made, and a hearty meal partaken of, hecordially thanked his host, and returned with Leonard to Wood-street. 

In spite of his efforts to resist the impression produced by the earl'swarning, Leonard could not banish it from his mind; and though he didnot for a moment think of abandoning his purpose, he resolved to attendthe meeting armed. He told Mr. Bloundel he should go out that night, butdid not state his object, and the grocer did not inquire it. Blaize satup with him, and displayed much anxiety to know whither he was going, but, as may be supposed, his curiosity was not gratified. As the clockstruck eleven, Leonard thrust a sword into his girdle, and arminghimself furthermore with his staff, proceeded towards the door, and badeBlaize lock it after him. 

"I shall probably be back in a couple of hours, " he said, as he wentforth. "You must sit up for me. "

"I wonder where he is going!" thought Blaize, "From his gloomy looks, and the weapon he has taken with him, I should judge he is about tomurder some one--perhaps the Earl of Rochester. It must be prevented. "

With this view, though perhaps rather more influenced by curiosity thanany better feeling, the porter waited a few seconds to allow theapprentice to get out of sight, and then locking the door outside, putthe key in his pocket, and followed him. The night was profoundly dark, but he had noticed the direction taken by Leonard, and runningnoiselessly along the street, soon perceived him a little in advance. Regulating his pace by that of the apprentice, and keeping about fiftyyards behind him, he tracked his course along several streets, until hesaw him pass through the second postern in the city wall, near Moorgate. 

Here he debated with himself whether to proceed further or turn back;but at length, curiosity got the best of his fears, and he went on. Afew steps brought him into the open fields, and fancying he saw Leonardat a little distance before him, he hurried on in that direction. But hesoon found he had been deceived by the stump of a tree, and began tofear he must have taken the wrong course. He looked around in vain forsome object to guide him. The darkness was so profound that he could seenothing, and he set off again at random, and not without muchself-reproach and misgiving. At last, he reached a hedge, and continuedto skirt it, until he perceived through the bushes the light of alantern in the adjoining field. He immediately called out, but at thecry the light disappeared. This did not prevent him from making towardsthe spot where he had seen it; but he had not proceeded far when he wasforcibly seized by some unseen person, thrown on the ground, and a drawnsword--for he felt the point--placed at his throat. 

"Utter a cry, and it is your last, " cried a stern voice. "Where is he?"

"Who--who?" demanded Blaize, half dead with terror. 

"He whom you appointed to meet, " replied the unknown. 

"I appointed to meet no one, " rejoined Blaize. 

"Liar!" exclaimed the other; "if you do not instantly lead me to him, Iwill cut your throat. "

"I will lead you wherever you please, if you will only let me get up, "rejoined Blaize, with difficulty repressing a cry. 

"By the daughters of Nox and Acheron!" exclaimed a voice which soundedlike music in the porter's ears, "I think you are mistaken in your man, my lord. It does not sound like the apprentice's voice. "

"It is _not_ the apprentice's voice, good Major Pillichody, " rejoinedthe porter. "It is mine, your friend--Blaize's. "

"Blaize!" exclaimed Pillichody, unmasking a dark lantern, and revealingthe terror-stricken countenance of the porter; "so it is. In the devil'sname, what are you doing here?"

"The devil himself, who put it into my head to come, only knows, "replied Blaize; "but I followed Leonard Holt. "

"Which way did he take?" asked the person who had assailed him. 

"I cannot exactly say, " replied Blaize, "but he seemed to go straightinto the fields. "

"He is no doubt gone to the plague-pit, " replied the other. "You are nowat liberty, " he added to Blaize, "and I counsel you to make the best ofyour way home. Say nothing to your master of what has occurred. The citywalls lie in that direction. "

Overjoyed to be released, Blaize ran off as fast as his legs could carryhim, and never stopped till he reached Moorgate. Meanwhile, Leonard hadreached the place of meeting. As he stood by the rail surrounding theplague-pit, he thought of Mr. Bloundel's singular dream, and almosthoping to be similarly favoured, flung himself on his knees, andbesought Amabel, if it were possible, to appear to him. But hisentreaties produced no result. The chill blast whistled past him, and, mindful of what had been told him, he was fain to interpret this into ananswer to his request. The night was bitterly cold, and Leonard, whoselimbs were almost stiffened by long kneeling, walked round and round theenclosure at a quick pace to put his blood into circulation. As the hourof midnight was tolled forth by the neighbouring churches, he heardfootsteps, and could just detect a figure advancing towards him. 

"Are you there?" was asked in the voice of Thirlby. Leonard replied inthe affirmative, and the other instantly joined him. 

"Have you mentioned our meeting to any one?" inquired Leonard. "I ask, because I was warned by the Earl of Rochester not to attend it. "

"Strange!" exclaimed Thirlby, musingly. "However, do not let us wastetime. I am about to leave London, perhaps this country--for ever. But Icould not depart without an interview with you. You are aware of mystrong attachment to my poor lost child. My daughter Isabella nowsupplies her place in my heart. She is the only being I love on earth, for my son has alienated himself from my affections. All I desire is tosee her happy. This, I find, can only be accomplished in one way. "

Here he paused for a moment, but as Leonard made no remark, heproceeded. "Why should I hesitate to declare it, " he said, "since it wasfor that object I brought you hither? She loves you--devotedly lovesyou--and if her wishes were opposed, I should tremble for theconsequences. Now listen to me. Situated as you are, you never can wedher. I will, however, point out a means by which you can raise yourselfto distinction in a short time, and so entitle yourself to claim herhand. I will supply you with money--more than you can require--willplace you at court--near the king's person--and if you act under mydirection, your rise is certain. I have extorted a promise to thiseffect from my own son. I told him my object, and that if he did notmake your fortune, I could ruin him by revealing myself. I may, perhaps, pay the penalty of my crime on the scaffold; but I may also escape. Inthe latter case, my reappearance would be fatal to him. He has consentedto cooperate with me, to watch over your fortunes, and, as soon as youhave attained sufficient eminence, to bestow his sister upon you. Now doyou understand?"

"I do, " replied Leonard; "and I understand also against whom the Earl ofRochester warned me. "

"And you consent, " demanded Thirlby. 

Leonard, was about to answer, when he felt a light and trembling handplaced upon his own. "Do not answer inconsiderately, Leonard, " said alow, sweet voice, which he recognised as that of the Lady Isabella; "Iam here to receive your determination. "

"I am glad of it, " replied the apprentice. "The deep devotion you havedisplayed towards me deserves to be requited. I will strive to rendermyself worthy of you, and I feel that by so doing I shall best fulfilthe injunctions of her who lies beside us. Henceforth, Lady Isabella, Iwholly devote myself to you. "

A murmur of delight escaped her. "My blessings on you both!" exclaimedher father. "Give me your hand, Isabella, " he added, taking it andplacing it in that of the apprentice. "Here, beside the grave of herwhom you both loved, I affiance you. Pursue the course I point out toyou, Leonard, and she will soon be yours. "

As he spoke, the light of a lantern was suddenly thrown upon them, disclosing two persons who had noiselessly approached. They were LordArgentine and Pillichody. "You affirm more than you have warrant for, mylord, " said the former. "I will never consent to this ill-assorted anddishonourable union; and, so far from permitting it, will oppose it tothe utmost of my power. If this presumptuous apprentice dares to raisehis views towards my sister, let him look to himself. Your safety liesin instant flight. The officers are in search of you. "

"They shall find me, " replied Thirlby, sternly. 

"As you please, " rejoined Argentine. "Come with me, Isabella, " he addedto his sister. But she flew with a cry towards Leonard. 

"Ah!" exclaimed her brother, drawing his sword. "Do you dare to detain, her? Deliver her to me, villain, instantly!"

"Not when thus menaced, my lord, " rejoined Leonard, likewise drawing hissword, and standing upon the defensive. 

"Then look to yourself, " replied Argentine, assaulting him. 

Isabella uttered a wild shriek, and Thirlby tried to rush between them. But before they could be separated, Lord Argentine's fury had exposedhim to his adversary, whose sword passed through his body. He fell tothe ground, weltering in his blood. While Leonard stood stupefied andconfounded at what had occurred, and Isabella, uttering a loud cry, threw herself upon the body and tried to stanch the wound--two men, withhalberds in their hands rushed forward, and seizing Thirlby, cried, "Wearrest you as a murderer!"

Thirlby, who seemed utterly overcome by surprise and horror, offered noResistance. At this juncture Leonard felt his arm seized by abystander--he did not know whom--and scarcely conscious of what wastaking place, suffered himself to be dragged from the scene. 

BOOK THE SIXTH. 

SEPTEMBER, 1666. 

I. 

THE FIRE-HALL. 

About nine o'clock on the night of Saturday, the second of September, 1666--and rather more than nine months after the incidents lastrelated, --three men took their way from Smithfield to Islington. Theyproceeded at a swift pace and in silence, until, having mounted thesteep hill on which the suburb in question is situated, they halted at ashort distance from the high walls surrounding the great water-worksformed by the New-River-head. The night was dark, but free from cloud, in consequence of a strong easterly wind which prevailed at the time. 

"It is dark in London now, " observed one of the three persons to hiscompanions as he cast his eye in the direction of the great city, thatlay buried in gloom beneath them; "but there will be light enough soon. "

"A second dawn, and brighter than the first, shall arise upon it, "replied one of his companions, a tall, gaunt man, whose sole coveringwas a sheepskin, girded round his loins. "Such a flame shall be kindledwithin it, as hath not been seen since showers of brimstone and firedescended upon the sinful cities of the plain. 'The Lord shall come withflames of fire, '" he added, pointing his long staff towards the city. "'He shall make them like a fiery oven, in the time of his wrath. Theyshall be utterly consumed. '"

"Amen!" exclaimed the third person, who stood near him, in a deep voice, and with something of a foreign accent. 

"Not so loud, friends, " rejoined the first speaker. "Let us set aboutthe task. I will ascertain that no one is on the watch. "

With this he moved towards the water-works, and skirting the circularwalls, to satisfy himself that all was secure, he returned to hiscompanions, and they proceeded to the principal entrance to the place. Noiselessly unlocking the gates, the leader of the party admitted theothers into an open space of some extent, in the midst of which was alarge reservoir of water. He then gave each of them a small key, andbidding them use despatch, they began to turn the cocks of the leadenpipes connected with the reservoir, while he hastened to the further endof the inclosure, and employed himself in a similar manner. In this way, and in less than a quarter of an hour, the whole of the cocks werestopped. 

"And now give me the keys, " said the leader. 

Taking them as they were offered, he added his own to the number, andflung them as far as he could into the reservoir, laughing slightly asthe noise of the splash occasioned by their fall into the water reachedthe ears. 

"They will not be found till this pool is drained, " he observed to hiscompanions. "And now let us go. Our business here is done. "

"Stay yet a moment, " cried Solomon Eagle, who was standing at the brinkof the reservoir, with his eyes fixed upon it. "Stay!" he cried, arresting him. "A vision rises before me. I see in this watery mirror arepresentation of the burning city. And what are those fearful formsthat feed the flames? Fiends, in our likeness--fiends! And see how wideand far the conflagration spreads. The whole city is swallowed up by anearthquake. It sinks to the bottomless pit--down--down!"

"No more of this, " cried the leader, impatiently. "Come along. " And, followed by the others, he rushed to the gates, and locking them afterhim, flung the key away. 

"A hundred pounds were paid to the servant of the chief officer of theworks to bring those keys to me, " he said, "and he executed hiscommission faithfully and well. Water will be vainly sought for toquench the conflagration. "

"I like not the vision I have just beheld, " said Solomon Eagle, in atroubled tone. "It seems to portend mischief. "

"Think of it no more, " rejoined the leader, "or regard it as it was--aphantom created by your overheated imagination. Yon city has sinned sodeeply, that it is the will of Heaven it should be destroyed; and it hasbeen put into our hearts by the Supreme Power to undertake the terribletask. We are the chosen instruments of the divine displeasure. Everything favours the design--the long-continued dry weather--thestrong easterly wind, which will bear the flames into the heart of thecity--the want of water, occasioned by the stopping of these pipes, theemptying of the various aqueducts, and the destruction of the Thameswater-tower, which we have accomplished. Everything favours it, I say, and proves that the hand of Heaven directs us. Yes, London shall fall!We have received our commission from on high, and must execute it, regardless of the consequences. For my own part, I feel as littlecompunction to the task, as the thunderbolt launched from on high doesfor the tree it shivers. "

"Philip Grant has uttered my sentiments exactly, " said the man who, ithas been mentioned, spoke with a slight foreign accent. "I have neithermisgiving nor compunction. You appear to have forgotten your owndenunciations, brother. "

"Not so, Brother Hubert, " rejoined the enthusiast, "and I now recognisein the vision a delusion of the Evil One to turn me from my holypurpose. But it has failed. The impious and impenitent city is doomed, and nothing can save it. And yet I would fain see it once more as Ibeheld it this morn when day arose upon it for the last time, from thesummit of Saint Paul's. It looked so beautiful that my heart smote me, and tears started to my eyes, to think that those goodly habitations, those towers, temples, halls, and palaces, should so soon be levelledwith the dust. "

"Hear what the prophet saith, " rejoined Hubert. "'Thou hast defiled thysanctuaries by the multitude of thine iniquities, by the iniquity of thytraffic. Therefore will I bring forth a fire from the midst of thee, andwill bring thee to ashes upon the earth, in the sight of all those thatbehold thee. '"

Solomon Eagle flung himself upon his knees, and his example was imitatedby the others. Having recited a prayer in a low deep tone, he arose, andstretching out his arms, solemnly denounced the city. As he pronouncedthe words, a red and fiery star shot from the dark vault of the sky, andseemed to fall in the midst of the city. 

"Did you not see that sign?" cried Grant, eagerly. "It heralds us to ourtask. "

So saying, he ran swiftly down the hill, and, followed by the others, did not slacken his pace till they reached the city. They then shapedtheir course more slowly towards Saint Paul's, and having gained theprecincts of the cathedral, Solomon Eagle, who now assumed the place ofleader, conducted them to a small door on the left of the great northernentrance, and unlocking it, ushered them into a narrow passage behindthe rich carved work of the choir. Traversing it, they crossed the midaisle, and soon reached the steps leading to Saint Faith's. It wasprofoundly dark, but they were all well acquainted with the road, anddid not miss their footing. It required, however, some caution to threadthe ranks of the mighty pillars filling the subterranean church. But atlast this was accomplished, and they entered the vault beyond thecharnel, where they found Chowles and Judith Malmayns. The former waswrapped in a long black cloak, and was pacing to and fro within thenarrow chamber. When Solomon Eagle appeared, he sprang towards him, andregarding him inquiringly, cried, "Have you done it?--have you done it?"

The enthusiast replied in the affirmative. "Heaven be praised!"exclaimed Chowles. And he skipped about with the wildest expressions ofdelight. A gleam of satisfaction, too, darted from Judith's savage eyes. She had neither risen nor altered her position on the arrival of theparty, but she now got up, and addressed the enthusiast. A small ironlamp, suspended by a chain from the vaulted roof, lighted the chamber. The most noticeable figure amidst the group was that of Solomon Eagle, who, with his blazing eyes, long jet-black locks, giant frame, and tawnyskin, looked like a supernatural being. Near him stood the persondesignated as Robert Hubert. He was a young man, and appeared to havelived a life of great austerity. His features were thin; his large blackeyes set in deep caverns; his limbs seemed almost destitute of flesh;and his looks wild and uncertain, like those of an insane person. Histattered and threadbare garb resembled that of a French ecclesiastic. The third person, who went by the name of Philip Grant, had a powerfulframe, though somewhat bent, and a haughty deportment and look, greatlyat variance with his miserable attire and haggard looks. His beard waslong and grizzled, and his features, though sharpened by care, retainedsome traces of a noble expression. A few minutes having passed inconversation, Grant observed to the enthusiast, "I must now leave youfor a short time. Give me the key that I may let myself out. "

"You are not going to betray us?" cried Chowles, suspiciously. 

"Why should I betray you?" rejoined Grant, sternly. "I am too anxiousfor the event to disclose it. "

"True, true, " replied Chowles. 

"_I_ do not mistrust you, brother, " observed Solomon Eagle, giving himthe key. 

"I know whither you are going, " observed Judith Malmayns. "You are aboutto warn Mr. Bloundel and his partner--apprentice no longer--LeonardHolt, of the approaching conflagration. But your care will be thrownaway. "

"Does she speak the truth, brother?" demanded Hubert, raising his eyesfrom the Bible which he was reading in the corner of the vault. 

"I will do nothing to endanger the design, " rejoined Grant; "of thatrest assured. "

With this, he strode forth, traversed Saint Faith's, and, notwithstanding the gloom, reached, without difficulty, the little doorby which he had entered the cathedral. Issuing from it, he took the way, as Judith had surmised, to Wood-street, and pausing before the grocer'sdoor, knocked against it. The summons was presently answered by Blaize;and to Grant's inquiries whether his master was within, he replied, "Which of my masters did you mean? I have two. "

"The younger, " replied Grant, "Leonard Holt. "

"So far you are fortunate, " rejoined Blaize. "Mr. Bloundel has retiredto rest, but Mr. Holt is still downstairs. Pray what may be yourbusiness with him at this hour? It should be important. "

"It is important, " rejoined Grant, "and does not admit of a moment'sdelay. Tell him so. "

Eyeing the stranger with a look of suspicion, the porter was about toenter into a parley with him, when Leonard himself cut it short, andlearning the nature of the application, desired Grant to follow him intothe adjoining room. The nine months which had passed over Leonard's headsince he was last brought under notice, had wrought a material change inhis appearance. He had a grave and thoughtful air, somewhat inclining tomelancholy, but in other respects he was greatly improved. His healthwas completely restored, and the thoughtful expression added characterto his handsome physiognomy, and harmonised well with his manly anddetermined bearing. He was habited plainly, but with some degree oftaste. As Judith Malmayns had intimated, he was now Mr. Bloundel'spartner, and his whole appearance denoted his improved circumstances. The alteration did not escape the notice of the stranger, who regardedhim with much curiosity, and closed the door behind him as he enteredthe room. 

"You are looking much better than when we last met, Leonard Holt, " hesaid, in tones that made his hearer start, "and I am glad to perceiveit. Prosperity seems to attend your path, and you deserve it; whereasmisery and every other ill--and I deserve them--dog mine. "

"I did not recognise you at first, Mr. Thirlby, " replied Leonard; "for, in truth, you are much changed. But you desire to speak with me on amatter of importance. Can I aid you? You may need money. Here is mypurse. "

"I do not want it, " replied the other, scornfully rejecting the offer. "I have a proposal to make to you. "

"I shall be glad to hear it, " replied Leonard. "But first tell me howyou effected your escape after your arrest on that disastrous nightwhen, in self-defence, and unintentionally, I wounded your son, LordArgentine?"

"Would you had killed him!" cried the other, fiercely. "I have lost allfeelings of a father for him. He it was who contrived my arrest, and hewould have gladly seen me borne to the scaffold, certain it would havefreed him from me for ever. I was hurried away by the officers from thescene of strife, and conveyed to the Tun at Cornhill, which you know hasbeen converted into a round-house, and where I was locked up for thenight. But while I was lying on the floor of my prison, driven well-nighfrantic by what had occurred, there were two persons without labouringto effect my deliverance--nor did they labour in vain. These wereChowles and Judith, my foster-sister, and whom, you may remember, Isuspected--and most unfairly--of intending my betrayal. By means of aheavy bribe, they prevailed on one of the officers to connive at myescape. An iron bar was removed from the window of my prison, and I gotthrough the aperture. Judith concealed me for some days in the vaults ofSaint Faith's, after which I fled into the country, where I wanderedabout for several months, under the name of Philip Grant. Having learntthat my son though severely hurt by you, had recovered from his wound, and that his sister, the Lady Isabella, had accompanied him to his seatin Staffordshire, I proceeded thither, and saw her, unknown to him. Ifound her heart still true to you. She told me you had disappearedimmediately after the termination of the conflict, and had not beenheard of till her brother was out of danger, when you returned toWood-street. "

"The information was correct, " replied Leonard. "I was dragged away by aperson whom I did not recognise at the time, but who proved to be theEarl of Rochester. He conducted me to a place of safety, thrust a purseinto my hand, and left me. As soon as I could do so with safety, Ireturned to my master's house. But how long have you been in London?"

"Nearly a month, " replied Grant. "And now let me ask you one question. Do you ever think of Isabella?"

"Often, very often, " replied Leonard. "But as I dare not indulge thehope of a union with her, I have striven to banish her image from mymind. "

"She cannot forget _you_, Leonard, " rejoined Grant. "And now to myproposal. I have another plan for your aggrandisement that cannot fail. I am in possession of a monstrous design, the revelation of which willprocure you whatever you desire. Ask a title from the king, and he willgive it; and when in possession of that title, demand the hand of theLady Isabella, and her proud brother will not refuse you. Call in yourporter--seize me. I will offer a feigned resistance. Convey me beforethe king. Make your own terms with him. He will accede to them. Will youdo it?"

"No, " replied Leonard, "I will not purchase the daughter at the price ofthe father's life. "

"Heed me not, " replied Grant, supplicatingly, "I am wholly indifferentto life. And what matters it whether I am dragged to the scaffold forone crime or another?"

"You plead in vain, " returned Leonard, firmly. 

"Reflect, " cried Grant, in an agonised tone. "A word from you will notonly win you Isabella, but save the city from destruction. "

"Save the city!" exclaimed Leonard. "What mean you?"

"Swear to comply with my request, and you shall know. But nototherwise, " replied Grant. 

"I cannot--I cannot, " rejoined Leonard; "and unfortunately you have saidtoo much for your own safety. I must, though most reluctantly, detainyou. "

"Hear me, Leonard, and consider well what you do, " cried Grant, plantinghimself before the door. "I love you next to my daughter, and chieflybecause she loves you. I have told you I have a design to discover, towhich I am a party--a hellish, horrible design--which threatens thiswhole city with destruction. It is your duty, having told you thus much, to arrest me, and I will offer no resistance. Will you not turn this toyour advantage? Will you not make a bargain with the king?"

"I have said I will not, " rejoined Leonard. 

"Then be warned by me, " rejoined Grant. "Arouse your partner. Pack upall your goods and make preparations for instant flight, for the dangerwill invade you before you are aware of it. "

"Is it fire?" demanded Leonard, upon whose mind the denunciations ofSolomon Eagle now rushed. 

"You will see, " replied Grant, with a terrible laugh. "You will repentyour determination when it is too late. Farewell. "

"Hold!" cried Leonard, advancing towards him, and trying to lay handsupon him, "I arrest you in the king's name. "

"Off!" exclaimed Grant, dashing him forcibly backwards. And strikingdown Blaize, who tried to stop him in the passage, he threw open thestreet-door, and disappeared. Fearful of pursuit, Grant took acircuitous route to Saint Paul's, and it was full half an hour after theinterview above related before he reached the cathedral. Just as hepassed through the small door, the clock tolled forth the hour ofmidnight, and when he gained the mid aisle, he heard footstepsapproaching, and encountered his friends. 

"We had given you up, " said Chowles, "and fearing you intended us sometreachery, were about to do the job without you. "

"I have been unavoidably detained, " replied Grant. "Let us about it atonce. "

"I have got the fire-balls with me, " observed Hubert. 

"It is well, " returned Grant. 

Quitting the cathedral, they proceeded to Thames-street, and tracking itto Fish-street-hill, struck off on the right into an alley that broughtthem to Pudding-lane. 

"This is the house, " said Chowles, halting before a two-storied woodenhabitation, over the door of which was suspended the sign of the "WheatSheaf, with the name THOMAS FARRYNER, BAKER, inscribed beneath it. 

"And here, " said Hubert, "shall begin the great fire of London. "

As he said this, he gave a fire-ball to Solomon Eagle, who lighted thefuze at Chowles's lantern. The enthusiast then approached a window ofthe baker's shop, and breaking a small pane of glass within it, threwthe fire-ball into the room. It alighted upon a heap of chips and fagotslying near a large stack of wood used for the oven, and in a few minutesthe whole pile had caught and burst into a flame, which, quicklymounting to the ceiling, set fire to the old, dry, half-decayed timberthat composed it. 

II. 

THE FIRST NIGHT OF THE FIRE. 

Having seen the stack of wood kindled, and the flames attack thebuilding in such a manner as to leave no doubt they would destroy it, the incendiaries separated, previously agreeing to meet together in halfan hour at the foot of London Bridge; and while the others started offin different directions, Chowles and Judith retreated to a neighbouringalley commanding a view of the burning habitation. 

"At last the great design is executed, " observed Chowles, rubbing hishands gleefully. "The fire burns right merrily, and will not soon beextinguished. Who would have thought we should have found such famousassistants as the two madmen, Solomon Eagle and Robert Hubert--and yourscarcely less mad foster-brother, Philip Grant? I can understand themotives that influenced the two first to the deed, but not those of theother. "

"Nor I, " replied Judith, "unless he wishes in some way or other tobenefit Leonard Holt by it. For my part, I shall enjoy this fire quiteas much on its own account as for the plunder it will bring us. I shouldlike to see every house in this great city destroyed. "

"You are in a fair way of obtaining your wish, " replied Chowles; "butprovided I have the sacking of them, I don't care how many are saved. Not but that such a fire will be a grand sight, which I should be sorryto miss. You forget, too, that if Saint Paul's should be burnt down, weshall lose our hoards. However, there's no chance of that. "

"Not much, " replied Judith, interrupting him. "But see! the baker has atlast discovered that his dwelling is on fire. He bursts open the window, and, as I live, is about to throw himself out of it. "

As she spoke, one of the upper windows in the burning habitation wasburst open, and a poor terrified wretch appeared at it in hisnight-dress, vociferating in tones of the wildest alarm, "Fire!fire!--help! help!"

"Shall we go forward?" said Chowles. Judith hesitated for a moment, andthen assenting, they hurried towards the spot. 

"Can we give you any help, friend?" cried Chowles. 

"Take care of this, " rejoined the baker, flinging a bag of money to theground, "and I will endeavour to let down my wife and children. Thestaircase is on fire, and we are almost stifled with smoke. God helpus!" And the exclamation was followed by fearful shrieks from within, followed by the appearance of a woman, holding two little children inher arms, at the window. 

"This must be money, " said Judith, utterly heedless of the fearful sceneoccurring above, and taking up the bag and chinking it; "silver, by thesound. Shall we make off with it?"

"No, no, " replied Chowles, "we must not run any risk for such a paltrybooty. Let us bide our time. "

At this juncture, the baker, who had disappeared for a few seconds fromthe window, again presented himself at it, and, with some difficulty, forced a feather bed through it, which was instantly placed by Chowlesin such a position beneath, as to break the fall of the descendingparties. Tying a couple of sheets together, and fastening one end roundhis wife's waist, the baker lowered her and the children to the ground. They alighted in safety; but just as he was about to follow theirexample, the floor of the room gave way, and though he succeeded inspringing through the window, he missed the feather bed, and broke hisleg in the fall. He was picked up by Chowles and Judith, and placed uponthe bed in a state of insensibility, and was soon afterwards conveyedwith his family to the house of a neighbour. 

Meanwhile, the fire had spread to the houses on either side of theunfortunate man's habitation, and both of them being built entirely ofwood, they were almost instantly in flames. The alarm too had becomegeneral; the inhabitants of the adjoining houses were filled withindescribable terror, and the narrow street was speedily crowded withpersons of both sexes, who had rushed from their beds to ascertain theextent of the danger. All was terror and confusion. The fire-bells ofSaint Margaret's, Saint George's, and Saint Andrew's, in Botolph-lane, began to toll, and shouts were heard on every side, proving that thewhole neighbourhood was roused. 

To add to the general distress, a report was raised that a house inFish-street-hill was on fire, and it was soon found to be true, as animmense volume of flames burst forth in that quarter. While the rest ofthe spectators, distracted by this calamity, and hardly knowing what todo, hurried in the direction of the new fire, Chowles and Judith eyedeach other askance, and the former whispered to his companion, "This isanother piece of Hubert's handiwork. "

The two wretches now thought it time to bestir themselves. So muchconfusion prevailed, that they were wholly unobserved, and under theplea of rendering assistance, they entered houses and carried offwhatever excited their cupidity, or was sufficiently portable. Nowealthy house had been attacked as yet, and therefore their spoil wasbut trifling. The poor baker seemed to be the bearer of ill-luck, for hehad not been many minutes in his new asylum before it likewise caughtfire. Another house, too, in Fish-street-hill, and lower down than thefirst, was observed to be burning, and as this was out of the current ofthe wind, and consequently could not have been occasioned by the showersof sparks that marked its course, a cry was instantly raised thatincendiaries were abroad, and several suspicious-looking persons wereseized in consequence. 

Meantime no efforts had been made to stop the progress of the originalconflagration in Pudding-lane, which continued to rage with the greatestfury, spreading from house to house with astonishing rapidity. All thebuildings in this neighbourhood being old, and of wood, which was as dryas tinder, a spark alighting upon them would have sufficed to set themon fire. It may be conceived, therefore, what must have been the effectof a vast volume of flame, fanned by a powerful wind. House after housecaught, as if constructed of touchwood, and the fire roared and raged tosuch a degree, that those who stood by were too much terrified to renderany effectual assistance. Indeed, the sole thought that now seemed toinfluence all was the preservation of a portion of their property. Noone regarded his neighbour, or the safety of the city. The narrow streetwas instantly filled with goods and furniture of all kinds, thrown outof the windows or pushed out of the doors; but such was the fiercenessof the fire, and the extraordinary rapidity with which it advanced, thatthe very articles attempted to be saved were seized by it, and thusformed a means of conveying it to the opposite houses. 

In this way a number of persons were inclosed for a short time betweentwo fires, and seemed in imminent danger of being burned to death. Theperilous nature of their situation was, moreover, increased by a suddenand violent gust of wind, which, blowing the flames right across thestreet, seemed to envelop all within them. The shrieks that burst fromthe poor creatures thus involved were most appalling. Fortunately, theysustained no greater damage than was occasioned by the fright and aslight scorching, for the next moment the wind shifted, and, sweepingback the flames, they were enabled to effect their retreat. Chowles andJudith were among the sufferers, and in the alarm of the moment lost allthe booty they had obtained. 

Soon after this the whole street was on fire. All idea of preservingtheir property was therefore abandoned by the inhabitants, and theythought only of saving themselves. Hundreds of half-naked persons ofboth sexes rushed towards Thames-street in search of a place of refuge. The scene was wholly without parallel for terror. Many fires hadoccurred in London, but none that raged with such fierceness as thepresent conflagration, or promised to be so generally destructive. Itgathered strength and fury each moment, now rising high into the air ina towering sheet of flame, now shooting forward like an enormous dragonvomiting streams of fire upon its foes. All at once the flames changedcolour, and were partially obscured by a thick black smoke. A largewarehouse filled with resin, tar, and other combustible matters, hadcaught fire, and the dense vapour proceeded from the burning pitch. Butit cleared off in a few minutes, and the flames burnt more brightly andfiercely than ever. 

Up to this time, none of the civic authorities having arrived, severalpersons set off to give information of the calamity to the lord mayor(Sir Thomas Bludworth), and the other magistrates. A small party of thewatch were on the spot, but they were unable to render any effectualassistance. As the conflagration advanced, those occupying houses in itstrack quitted them, and left their goods a prey to the numerousplunderers, who were now gathered together pursuing their vocation likeunhallowed beings amid the raging element. The whole presented a sceneof the wildest alarm, confusion, and license. Vociferations, oaths, shrieks, and outcries of every description stunned the ear. Night wasturned into day. The awful roaring of the flames was ever and anonbroken by the thundering fall of some heavy roof. Flakes of fire werescattered far and wide by the driving wind, carrying destructionwherever they alighted, and spreading the conflagration on all sides, till it seemed like a vast wedge of fire driven into the heart of thecity. And thus it went on, swallowing up all before it, like aninsatiate monster, and roaring for very joy. Meanwhile, the incendiarieshad met, as concerted, near the foot of the bridge, and all exceptPhilip Grant seemed to rejoice in the progress of the conflagration. Chowles made some comment upon his moody looks and silence, andwhispered in his ear, "You have now an opportunity of retrieving yourfortune, and may make yourself richer than your son. Take my advice, anddo not let it pass. "

"Away, tempter!" cried Grant--"I have lighted a fire within my breastwhich never will be quenched. "

"Poh, poh!" rejoined Judith; "do not turn faint-hearted now. "

"The fire rages fiercely, " cried Solomon Eagle, gazing at the vast sheetof flame overtopping the buildings near them, "but we must keep italive. Take the remainder of the fire-balls, Hubert, and cast them intosome of the old houses in Crooked-lane. "

Hubert prepared to obey. "I will go with you, and point out the bestspots, " said Chowles. "Our next place of rendezvous must be the vaultsbeneath Saint Faith's. "

"Agreed!" exclaimed the others. And they again separated, Hubert andChowles to kindle fresh fires, and Grant to watch the conflagration at adistance. As to Solomon Eagle, he rushed towards the scene ofdestruction, and forcing himself into the midst of the crowd, mounted apost, crying in a loud voice:

"I told you a second judgment would come upon you on account of youriniquities, and you now find that I avouched the truth. The Lord himselfhath come to preach to you, as he did in the fiery mount of Sinai, and aterrible exhortation it shall be, and one ye shall not easily forget. This fire shall not be quenched till the whole city is laid prostrate. Ye doubted my words when I told you of the plague; ye laughed at me andscoffed me; but ye became believers in the end, and now conviction isforced upon you a second time. You will vainly attempt to save yourdwellings. It is the Lord's will they should be destroyed, and man'sefforts to avert the judgment will be ineffectual!"

While the majority listened to him with fear and trembling, and regardedhim as a prophet, a few took the opposite view of the question, andcoupling his appearance with the sudden outbreak of the fire, weredisposed to regard him as an incendiary. They therefore cried out--"Hehas set fire to our houses. Down with him! down with him!"

Other voices joined in the outcry, and an attempt was made to carry themenace into effect; but a strong party rallied round the enthusiast, whoderided the attempts of his opponents. Planting himself on the steps ofSaint Margaret's Church, he continued to pour forth exhortations to thecrowd, until he was driven into the interior of the pile by thefast-approaching flames. The whole body of the church was filled withpoor wretches who had sought refuge within it, having brought with themsuch of their goods as they were able to carry off. But it soon becameevident that the sacred structure would be destroyed, and their screamsand cries on quitting it were truly heartrending. Solomon Eagle was thelast to go forth, and he delayed his departure till the flames burstthrough the windows. Another great storehouse of oil, tar, cordage, hemp, flax, and other highly inflammable articles, adjoining the church, had caught fire, and the flames speedily reached the sacred fabric. Theglass within the windows was shivered; the stone bars split asunder; andthe seats and other woodwork withinside catching fire, the flamesascended to the roof, and kindled its massive rafters. 

Great efforts were now made to check the fire. A few of the cumbrous andunmanageable engines of the day were brought to the spot, but no watercould be obtained. All the aqueducts, pipes, and sluices were dry, andthe Thames water-tower was found to be out of order, and the pipesconnected with it empty. To add to the calamity, the tide was out, andit was not only difficult, but dangerous, to obtain water from theriver. The scanty supply served rather to increase than check theflames. All sorts of rumours prevailed among the crowd. It could nolonger be doubted that the fire, which kept continually breaking out infresh places, was the work of incendiaries, and it was now supposed thatit must have been caused by the French or the Dutch, with both of whichnations the country was then at war, and the most fearful anticipationsthat it was only the prelude of a sudden invasion were entertained. Someconjectured it might be the work of the Papists; and it chancing that aprofessor of that religion was discovered among the mob, he was withdifficulty rescued from their fury by the watch, and conveyed toNewgate. Other persons, who were likewise suspected of beingincendiaries, were conveyed with him. 

This, though it satisfied the multitude, did not check the progress ofthe fire, nor put a stop to the terror and tumult that prevailed. Everymoment a fresh family were turned into the street, and by their criesadded to the confusion. The plunderers had formed themselves into bands, pillaging everything they could lay hands on--carrying off boxes, goods, and coffers, breaking into cellars, broaching casks of spirits and ale, and emptying flasks of wine. Hundreds of persons who did not join in thepillage made free with the contents of the cellars, and a large portionof the concourse was soon in a state of intoxication. 

Thus, wild laughter and exclamations of frenzied mirth were heard amidthe wailings of women and the piteous cries of children. It was indeeddreadful to see the old and bed-ridden forced into the street to seek ahome where they could; nor yet less dreadful to behold others rousedfrom a bed of sickness at dead of night, and by such a fearful summons. Still, fanned by the wind, and fed by a thousand combustible matters, the fire pressed fearfully on, devouring all before it, and increasingin fury and power each instant; while the drunken mob laughed, roared, shouted, and rejoiced beside it, as if in emulation of the ragingflames. 

To proceed for a moment to Wood Street. When Philip Grant quittedLeonard in the manner before related, the latter followed him to thedoor, and saw him disappear in the gloom. But he did not attemptpursuit, because he could not persuade himself that any danger wasreally to be apprehended. He thought it, however, advisable to consultwith Mr. Bloundel on the subject, and accordingly proceeded to his roomand roused him. 

After hearing what had occurred, the grocer looked very grave, and said, "I am not disposed to treat this matter so lightly as you do, Leonard. Ifear this unhappy man has some desperate design in view. What it is Icannot--dare not--conjecture. But I confess I am full of apprehension. Ishall not retire to rest to-night, but shall hold myself in readiness toact in whatever way may be necessary, You had better go forth, and ifanything occurs, give notice to the proper authorities. We have not nowsuch a lord mayor as we had during the season of the plague. The firmand courageous Sir John Lawrence is but ill succeeded by the weak andvacillating Sir Thomas Bludworth. Still, the latter may be equal to thisemergency, and if anything happens, you must apply to him. "

"I will follow your advice implicitly, " rejoined Leonard. "At the sametime, I think there is nothing to apprehend. "

"It is better to err on the safe side, " observed the grocer; "you cannotthen reproach yourself with want of caution. "

Shortly after this, Leonard sallied forth, and having determined whatcourse to pursue in the first instance, proceeded to Saint Paul's. Hefound every door in the sacred structure fast closed. Not satisfied withthis, he knocked at the great northern entrance till the summons wasanswered by a verger, and stating his object, demanded to be admitted, and to search the cathedral, as well as Saint Faith's. The vergeroffered no objection, and having examined the old building throughout, without discovering any traces of the person he was in quest of, Leonardquitted it. 

More than ever convinced that he was right in his supposition, and thatno danger was to be apprehended, he was about to return home, when theidea occurred to him that he might perhaps find Grant at the plague-pitin Finsbury Fields, and he accordingly shaped his course thither. A longperiod had elapsed since he had last visited the melancholy spot, and itwas not without much painful emotion that he drew near the vast moundcovering the victims of the pestilence. But Grant was not there, andthough he paced round and round the dreary inclosure for some time, noone came. He then proceeded to the lesser plague-pit, and kneelingbeside the grave of Amabel, bedewed it with his tears. 

As he arose, with the intention of returning to Wood Street, he observedan extraordinary light in the sky a little to the left, evidentlyproduced by the reflection of a great fire in that direction. Onbeholding this light, he said to himself, "Mr. Bloundel was right. Thisis the danger with which the city is threatened. It is now too late toavert it. " Determined, however, to ascertain the extent of the calamitywithout an instant's loss of time, he set off at a swift pace, and inless than half an hour reached Fish Street Hill, and stood beside theconflagration. It was then nearly three o'clock, and a vast chasm ofblackening ruins proclaimed the devastation that had been committed. Just as he arrived, the roof of Saint Margaret's fell in with atremendous crash, and for a few minutes the fire was subdued. It thenarose with greater fury than ever; burst out on both sides of the sacredstructure, and caught the line of houses leading towards London Bridge. The first house was that of a vintner; and the lower part of thepremises--the cellars and vaults--were filled with wine and spirits. These instantly blazed up, and burnt with such intensity that theadjoining habitation was presently in flames. 

"I know who hath done all this!" exclaimed Leonard, half involuntarily, as he gazed on the work of destruction. 

"Indeed!" exclaimed a bystander, gazing at him. "Who is it?--theDutchman or the Frenchman?"

"Neither, " replied Leonard, who at that moment discovered Grant amongthe group opposite him. "Yonder stands the incendiary!"

III. 

PROGRESS OF THE FIRE. 

Instantly surrounded and seized by the mob, Grant offered no resistance, but demanded to be led with his accuser before a magistrate. Almost asthe words were uttered, a cry was raised that the lord mayor and thesheriffs were coming along East-cheap, and the prisoner and Leonard wereimmediately hurried off in that direction. They met the civicauthorities at the corner of Saint Clement's-lane; but instead of payingany attention to them, the lord mayor, who appeared to be in a state ofgreat agitation and excitement, ordered the javelin-men, by whom he wasattended, to push the mob aside. 

"I will not delay your worship an instant, " cried Leonard; "but thisdreadful fire is the work of incendiaries, of whom that man, " pointingto Grant, "is the principal. I pray your worship to question him. He mayhave important revelations to make. "

"Eh, what?" cried the lord mayor, addressing Grant. "Is it true you arean incendiary? Who are your accomplices? Where are they?"

"I have none, " replied Grant, boldly--"I deny the charge altogether. Letmy accuser prove it if he can. "

"You hear what he says, young man, " said the mayor. "Did you see him setfire to any house? Did you find any fire-balls on his person?"

"I did not, " replied Leonard. 

"I searched him, your worship, " cried Chowles, who was among thebystanders, "the moment he was seized, and found nothing upon him. It isa false and malicious charge. "

"It looks like it, I must say, " replied the mayor. "On what grounds doyou accuse him?" he added, angrily, to Leonard. 

"On these, " replied Leonard. "He came to me three hours ago, andconfessed that he had a desperate design against the safety of the city, and made certain proposals to me, to which I would not listen. This isnot the season for a full explanation of the matter. But I pray yourworship, as you value the welfare of the city, to have him secured. "

"There can be no harm in that, " replied the lord mayor. "His appearanceis decidedly against him. Let him be taken care of till the morrow, whenI will examine further into the matter. Your name and place of abode, young man?"

"I am called Leonard Holt, and my business is that of a grocer, inWood-street, " was the reply. 

"Enough, " rejoined the mayor. "Take away the prisoner. I will hearnothing further now. Lord! Lord! how the fire rages, to be sure. Weshall have the whole city burnt down, if we do not take care. "

"That we shall, indeed, " replied Sir Robert Viner, one of the sheriffs, "unless the most prompt and decisive measures are immediately adopted. "

"What would you recommend?" cried the lord mayor, despairingly. SirRobert looked perplexed by the question. 

"If I might offer an opinion, " interposed Leonard, "I would advise yourworship to pull down all the houses in the way of the fire, as the onlymeans of checking it. "

"Pull down the houses!" cried the lord mayor. "Who ever heard of such anidea? Why, that would be worse than the fire. No, no; that will neverdo. "

"The young man is in the right, " observed Sir Joseph Sheldon, the othersheriff. 

"Well, well--we shall see, " replied the mayor. "But we are losing timehere. Forward! forward!"

And while Grant was borne off to Newgate by a guard of javelin-men, thelord mayor and his company proceeded to Fish-street-hill, where thewhole conflagration burst upon them. The moment the lord mayor appeared, he was beset on all sides by hundreds of families soliciting hisprotection. Others came to give him the alarming intelligence that avery scanty supply of water only could be obtained, and that already twoengines had been destroyed, while the firemen who worked them hadnarrowly escaped with life. Others again pressed him for instructionshow to act--some suggesting one plan--some another, --and being of a weakand irresolute character, and utterly unequal to a fearful emergencylike the present, he was completely bewildered. Bidding the houselessfamilies take refuge in the churches, he ordered certain officers toattend them, and affecting to doubt the statement of those who affirmedthere was no water, advised them to go to the river, where they wouldfind plenty. In vain they assured him the tide was out, the Thameswater-tower empty, the pipes and conduits dry. He would not believeanything of the sort, but upbraiding his informants with neglect, badethem try again. As to instructions, he could give none. 

At last, a reluctant assent being wrung from him by Sir Joseph Sheldon, that a house should be pulled down, as suggested by Leonard, preparations were instantly made for putting the design into execution. The house selected was about four doors from the top ofFish-street-hill, and belonged to a birdcage-maker. But they encounteredan unexpected opposition. Having ascertained their purpose, the ownerfastened his doors, and refused to admit them. He harangued the mob fromone of the upper windows, and producing a pistol, threatened to fireupon them if they attempted to gain a forcible entrance. The officers, however, having received their orders, were not to be intimidated, andcommenced breaking down the door. The birdcage-maker then fired, butwithout effect; and before he had time to reload, the door had yieldedto the combined efforts of the multitude, who were greatly enraged athis strange conduct. They rushed upstairs, but finding he had lockedhimself in the room, left him there, supposing him secure, and commencedthe work of demolition. More than a hundred men were engaged in thetask; but though they used the utmost exertion, they had little morethan unroofed the building, when a cry was raised by those in thestreet that the house was on fire. Alarmed by the shout, they descended, and found the report true. Flames were issuing from the room latelyoccupied by the birdcage-maker. The wretch had set fire to his dwelling, and then made his escape with his family by a back staircase. Thusdefeated, the workmen, with bitter imprecations on the fugitive, withdrew, and Leonard, who had lent his best assistance to the task, repaired to the lord mayor. He found him in greater consternation thanever. 

"We must go further off, if we would do any good, " said Leonard; "and asthe present plan is evidently too slow, we must have recourse togunpowder. "

"Gunpowder!" exclaimed the lord mayor. "Would you blow up the city, likea second Guy Fawkes? I begin to suspect you are one of the incendiariesyourself, young man. Lord, Lord! what will become of us?"

"If your worship disapproves of my suggestion, at least give orders whatis to be done, " rejoined Leonard. 

"I have done all I can, " replied the mayor. "Who are you that talk to methus?"

"I have told your worship I am a simple tradesman, " replied Leonard. "But I have the welfare of the city at heart, and I cannot stand by andsee it burnt to the ground without an effort to save it. "

"Well, well, I dare say you mean very well, young man, " rejoined thelord mayor, somewhat pacified. "But don't you perceive it's impossibleto stop such a fire as this without water, or engines. I'm sure I wouldwillingly lay down my life to preserve the city. But what can Ido?--what can any man do?"

"Much may be done if there is resolution to attempt it, " returnedLeonard. "I would recommend your worship to proceed, in the first place, to the wharves on the banks of the Thames, and cause the removal of thewood, coal, and other combustible matter with which they are crowded. "

"Well thought of, " cried the lord mayor. "I will go thither at once. Doyou stay here. Your advice will be useful. I will examine you touchingthe incendiary to-morrow--that is, if we are any of us left alive, whichI don't expect. Lord, Lord! what will become of us?" And with manysimilar ejaculations, he hurried off with the sheriffs, and the greaterpart of his attendants, and taking his way down Saint Michael's-lane, soon reached the river-side. 

By this time, the fire had approached the summit of Fish-street-hill, and here the overhanging stories of the houses coming so close togetheras almost to meet at the top, the flames speedily caught the other side, and spread the conflagration in that direction. Two other houses werelikewise discovered to be on fire in Crooked-lane, and in an incrediblyshort space the whole dense mass of habitations lying at the west sideof Fish-street-hill, and between Crooked-lane and Eastcheap, were inflames, and threatening the venerable church of Saint Michael, whichstood in the midst of them, with instant destruction. To theastonishment of all who witnessed it, the conflagration seemed toproceed as rapidly against the wind, as with it, and to be approachingThames-street, both by Pudding-lane and Saint Michael's-lane. A largestable, filled with straw and hay, at the back of the Star Inn, inLittle Eastcheap, caught fire, and carrying the conflagration eastward, had already conveyed it as far as Botolph-lane. 

It chanced that a poor Catholic priest, travelling from Douay toEngland, had landed that night, and taken up his quarters at the hotelabove mentioned. The landlord, who had been roused by the cries of fire, and alarmed by the rumours of incendiaries, immediately called to mindhis guest, and dragging him from his room, thrust him, half-naked, intothe street. Announcing his conviction that the poor priest was anincendiary to the mob without, they seized him, and in spite of hisprotestations and explanations, which, being uttered in a foreigntongue, they could not comprehend, they were about to exercise summarypunishment upon him, by hanging him to the sign-post before thelandlord's door, when they were diverted from their dreadful purpose bySolomon Eagle, who prevailed upon them to carry him to Newgate. 

The conflagration had now assumed so terrific a character that itappalled even the stoutest spectator. It has been mentioned, that formany weeks previous to the direful calamity, the weather had beenremarkably dry and warm, a circumstance which had prepared the oldwooden houses, abounding in this part of the city, for almostinstantaneous ignition. Added to this, if the incendiaries themselveshad deposited combustible materials at certain spots to extend theconflagration, they could not have selected better places than accidenthad arranged. All sorts of inflammable goods were contained in the shopsand ware-houses, --oil, hemp, flax, pitch, tar, cordage, sugar, wine, andspirits; and when any magazine of this sort caught fire, it spread theconflagration with tenfold rapidity. 

The heat of the flames had now become almost insufferable, and thesparks and flakes of fire fell so fast and thick, that the spectatorswere compelled to retreat to a considerable distance from the burningbuildings. The noise occasioned by the cracking of the timbers, and thefalling of walls and roofs, was awful in the extreme. All the avenuesand thoroughfares near the fire were now choked up by carts, coaches, and other vehicles, which had been hastily brought thither to remove thegoods of the inhabitants, and the hurry of the poor people to save awreck of their property, and the attempts made by the gangs ofplunderers to deprive them of it, constituted a scene of unparalleledtumult and confusion. As yet, no troops had appeared to maintain order, and seeing that as much mischief was almost done by the plunderers as bythe fire, Leonard determined to go in search of the lord mayor, andacquaint him with the mischief that was occurring. Having heard that thefire had already reached London Bridge, he resolved to ascertain whetherthe report was true. As he proceeded down Saint Michael's-lane, he foundthe venerable church from which it was designated on fire, and with somedifficulty forcing his way through the crowd, reached Thames-street, where he discovered that the conflagration had even made more fearfulprogress than he had anticipated. Fishmongers' Hall, a large squarestructure, was on fire, and burning swiftly, --the flames encircling itshigh roof, and the turret by which it was surmounted. Streams of fire, too, had darted down the numerous narrow alleys leading to theriver-side, and reaching the wharves, had kindled the heaps of wood andcoal with which they were filled. The party under the command of thelord mayor had used their utmost exertions to get rid of thesecombustible materials by flinging them into the Thames; but they cametoo late, and were driven away by the approach of the fire. Most of thebarges and heavy craft were aground, and they, too, caught fire, andwere burned, with their contents. 

Finding he could neither render any assistance, nor obtain speech withthe lord mayor, and anxious to behold the terrible yet sublime spectaclefrom the river, Leonard hastened to Old Swan-Stairs, and springing intoa boat, ordered the waterman to row into the middle of the Thames. Hecould then discern the full extent of the conflagration, and trace theprogress it was making. All the houses between Fishmongers' Hall and thebridge were on fire, and behind them rose a vast sheet of flame. SaintMagnus' Church, at the foot of the bridge, was next seized by the flame, and Leonard watched its destruction. An ancient gateway followed, andsoon afterwards a large stack of houses erected upon the bridge burstinto flames. 

The inhabitants of the houses on the bridge, having now becomethoroughly alarmed, flung bedding, boxes, and articles of furniture, outof their windows into the river. A crowd of boats surrounded thestarlings, and the terrified occupants of the structures abovedescending to them by the staircases in the interior of the piers, embarked with every article they could carry off. The river presented amost extraordinary scene. Lighted by the red and fierce reflection ofthe fire, and covered with boats, filled with families who had justquitted their habitations either on the bridge or in some other streetadjoining it, its whole surface was speckled with pieces of furniture, or goods, that had been cast into it, and which were now floating upwith the tide. Great crowds were collected on the Southwark shore towatch the conflagration, while on the opposite side the wharves andquays were thronged with persons removing their goods, and embarkingthem in boats. One circumstance, noted by Pepys, and which also struckLeonard, was the singular attachment displayed by the pigeons, kept bythe owners of several houses on the bridge, to the spots they had beenaccustomed to. Even when the flames attacked the buildings to which thedovecots were attached, the birds wheeled round and round them, until, their pinions being scorched by the fire, they dropped into the water. 

Leonard remained on the river nearly two hours. He could not, in fact, tear himself away from the spectacle, which possessed a strangefascination in his eyes. He began to think that all the efforts of menwere unavailing to arrest the progress of destruction, and he was forawhile content to regard it as a mere spectacle. And never had he behelda more impressive--a more terrible sight. There lay the vast andpopulous city before him, which he had once before known to be invadedby an invisible but extirminating foe, now attacked by a furious andfar-seen enemy. The fire seemed to form a vast arch--many-coloured as arainbow, --reflected in the sky, and re-reflected in all its horriblesplendour in the river. 

Nor was the aspect of the city less striking. The innumerable towers andspires of the churches rose tall and dark through the wavering sheet offlame, and every now and then one of them would topple down ordisappear, as if swallowed up by the devouring element. For a shortspace, the fire seemed to observe a regular progressive movement, butwhen it fell upon better material, it reared its blazing crest aloft, changed its hues, and burnt with redoubled intensity. Leonard watched itthread narrow alleys, and firing every lesser habitation in its course, kindle some great hall or other structure, whose remoteness seemed tosecure it from immediate danger. At this distance, the roaring of theflames resembled that of a thousand furnaces. Ever and anon, it wasbroken by a sound like thunder, occasioned by the fall of some mightyedifice. Then there would come a quick succession of reports like thedischarge of artillery, followed by a shower of fiery flakes and sparksblown aloft, like the explosion of some stupendous firework. Mixed withthe roaring of the flames, the thunder of falling roofs, the cracking oftimber, was a wild hubbub of human voices, that sounded afar off like adismal wail. In spite of its terror, the appearance of the fire was atthat time beautiful beyond description. Its varying colours--itsfanciful forms--now shooting out in a hundred different directions, likelightning-flashes, --now drawing itself up, as it were, and soaringaloft, --now splitting into a million tongues of flame, --these aspects soriveted the attention of Leonard, that he almost forgot in the sight thedreadful devastation going forward. His eyes ached with gazing at thefiery spectacle, and he was glad to rest them on the black masses ofbuilding that stood in stern relief against it, and which there could belittle doubt would soon become its prey. 

It was now broad daylight, except for the mighty cloud of smoke, whicho'er-canopied the city, creating an artificial gloom. Leonard's troubledgaze wandered from the scene of destruction to Saint Paul's--an edifice, which; from the many events connected with his fortunes that hadoccurred there, had always a singular interest in his eyes. Calling tomind the denunciations poured forth by Solomon Eagle against this fane, he could not help fearing they would now be fulfilled. What added to hismisgivings was, that it was now almost entirely surrounded by poles andscaffolding. Ever since the cessation of the plague, the repairs, suspended during that awful season, had been recommenced under thesuperintendence of Doctor Christopher Wren, and were now proceeding withrenewed activity. The whole of the building was under repair, and a vastnumber of masons were employed upon it, and it was their scaffoldingthat impressed Leonard with a dread of what afterwards actuallyoccurred. Accustomed to connect the figure of Solomon Eagle with thesacred structure, he could not help fancying that he discovered a speckresembling a human figure on the central tower. If it were theenthusiast, what must his feelings be at finding his predictions sofatally fulfilled? Little did Leonard think how the prophecy had beenaccomplished!

But his attention was speedily called to the progress of theconflagration. From the increased tumult in the city, it was evident theinhabitants were now thoroughly roused, and actively bestirringthemselves to save their property. This was apparent, even on the river, from the multitude of boats deeply laden with goods of all kinds, whichwere now seen shaping their course towards Westminster. The fire, also, had made rapid progress on all sides. The vast pile of habitations atthe north side of the bridge was now entirely in flames. The effect ofthis was awfully fine. Not only did the flames mount to a greaterheight, and appear singularly conspicuous from the situation of thehouses, but every instant some blazing fragment fell with a tremendoussplash into the water, where it hissed for a moment, and then was forever quenched, floating a black mass upon the surface. From the foot ofthe bridge to Coal Harbour Stairs, extended what Dryden finely calls "aquay of fire. " All the wharves and warehouses were in flames, andburning with astonishing rapidity, while this part of Thames-street, "the lodge of all combustibles, " had likewise become a prey to thedevouring element. The fire, too, had spread in an easterly direction, and consuming three churches, namely, Saint Andrew's, in Botolph-lane, Saint Mary's, in Love-lane, and Saint Dunstan's in the East, had invadedTower-street, and seemed fast approaching the ancient fortress. Sofascinated was Leonard with the sight, that he could have been wellcontent to remain all day gazing at it, but he now recollected that hehad other duties to perform, and directing the waterman to land him atQueenhithe, ascended Bread-street-hill, and betook himself toWood-street. 

IV. 

LEONARD'S INTERVIEW WITH THE KING. 

Some rumours of the conflagration, as will be supposed, had ere thisreached Mr. Bloundel, but he had no idea of the extent of the direfulcalamity, and when informed of it by Leonard, lifted up his handsdespairingly, exclaiming, in accents of the deepest affliction--"Anotherjudgment, then, has fallen upon this sinful city, --another judgment yetmore terrible than the first. Man may have kindled this great fire, butthe hand of God is apparent in it. 'Alas! alas! for thee, thou greatcity, Babylon! Alas for thee, thou mighty city! for in one hour is thyjudgment come. The kings of the earth shall bewail thee, and lament forthee, when they see the smoke of thy burning. '"

"Your dwelling was spared in the last visitation, sir, " observedLeonard, after a pause, "and you were able to shut yourself up, as in astrong castle, against the all-exterminating foe. But I fear you willnot be able to ward off the assaults of the present enemy, and recommendyou to remove your family and goods without delay to some place ofsecurity far from this doomed city. "

"This is the Lord's Day, Leonard, and must be kept holy, " replied thegrocer. "To-morrow, if I am spared so long, I will endeavour to findsome place of shelter. "

"If the conflagration continues to spread as rapidly as it is now doing, to-morrow will be too late, " rejoined Leonard. 

"It may be so, " returned the grocer, "but I will not violate theSabbath. If the safety of my family is threatened, that is anothermatter, but I will not attempt to preserve my goods. Do not, however, let me influence you. Take such portion of our stock as belongs to you, and you know that a third of the whole is yours, and convey it where youplease. "

"On no account, sir, " interrupted Leonard. "I should never think ofacting in opposition to your wishes. This will be a sad Sunday forLondon. "

"The saddest she has ever seen, " replied the grocer; "for though thevoice of prayer was silenced in her churches during the awful season ofthe plague, yet then men's minds had been gradually prepared for thecalamity, and though filled with terror, they were not taken bysurprise, as must now be the case. But let us to prayers, and may ourearnest supplications avail in turning aside the Divine displeasure. "

And summoning his family and household, all of whom were by this timestirring, and in the utmost consternation at what they had heard of thefire, he commenced a prayer adapted to the occasion in a strain of theutmost fervour; and as Leonard gazed at his austere countenance, nowlighted up with holy zeal, and listened to his earnest intercessions inbehalf of the devoted city, he was reminded of the prophet Jeremiahweeping for Jerusalem before the throne of grace. 

Prayers over, the whole party sat down to their morning repast, afterwhich, the grocer and his eldest son, accompanied by Leonard and Blaize, mounted to the roof of the house, and gazing in the direction of theconflagration, they could plainly distinguish the vast cloud of yellowsmoke commingled with flame that marked the scene of its ravages. As thewind blew from this quarter, charged, as has been stated, with a cloudof sparks, many of the fire-drops were dashed in their faces, andcompelled them to shade their eyes. The same awful roar which Leonardhad heard on the river likewise broke upon their ears, while from allthe adjoining streets arose a wild clamour of human voices, the burdenof whose cries was "Fire! Fire!" The church bells, which should havebeen tolling to early devotion, were now loudly ringing the alarm, whiletheir towers were crowded, as were the roofs of most of the houses, withpersons gazing towards the scene of devastation. Nothing could be moreopposite to the stillness and quiet of a Sabbath morn; and as the grocerlistened to the noise and tumult prevailing around him, he could notrepress a groan. 

"I never thought my ears would be so much offended on this day, " hesaid. "Let us go down. I have seen and heard enough. "

They then descended, and Stephen Bloundel, who was greatly alarmed bywhat he had just witnessed, strongly urged his father to removeimmediately. "There are seasons, " said the young man, "when even ourduty to Heaven becomes a secondary consideration; and I should be sorryif the fruit of your industry were sacrificed to your religiousscruples. "

"There are no such seasons, " replied the grocer, severely; "and I amgrieved that a son of mine should think so. If the inhabitants of thissinful city had not broken the Sabbath, and neglected God'scommandments, this heavy judgment would not have fallen upon them. Ishall neglect no precaution for the personal safety of my family, but Iplace my worldly goods in the hands of Him from whom I derived them, andto whom I am ready to restore them, whenever it shall please Him to takethem. "

"I am rebuked, father, " replied Stephen, humbly; "and entreat yourpardon for having ventured to differ with you. I am now fully sensibleof the propriety of your conduct. "

"And I have ever acquiesced in your wishes, be they what they may, " saidMrs. Bloundel to her husband; "but I confess I am dreadfully frightened. I hope you will remove the first thing to-morrow. "

"When midnight has struck, and the Sabbath is past, I shall commence mypreparations, " replied the grocer. "You must rest content till then. "Mrs. Bloundel heaved a sigh, but said no more; and the grocer, retiringto a side-table, opened the Bible, and sat down calmly to its perusal. But though no further remonstrances reached his ears, there was greatmurmuring in the kitchen on the part of Blaize and Patience. 

"Goodness knows what will become of us!" cried the latter. "I expect weshall all be burnt alive, owing to our master's obstinacy. What harm canthere be in moving on a Sunday, I should like to know? I'm sure I'm toomuch hurried and flurried to say my prayers as I ought to do. "

"And so am I, " replied Blaize. "Mr. Bloundel is a great deal tooparticular. What a dreadful thing it would be if the house should beburnt down, and all my mother's savings, which were to form a provisionfor our marriage, lost. "

"That would be terrible, indeed, " cried Patience, with a look of dismay. "I think the wedding had better take place as soon as the fire is over. It can't last many days if it goes on at this rate. "

"You are right, " returned Blaize. "I have no objection. I'll speak to mymother at once. " And stepping into the scullery, where old Josyna waswashing some dishes, he addressed her--"Mother, I'm sadly afraid thisgreat fire will reach us before our master will allow us to move. Hadn'tyou better let me take care of the money you intended giving me on mymarriage with Patience?"

"No, no, myn goed zoon, " replied Josyna, shaking her head--"I musd zeeyou married virsd. "

"But I can't be married to-day, " cried Blaize--"and there's no time tolose. The fire will be upon us directly. "

"I cand help dat, " returned his mother. "We musd place our drusd inGod. "

"There I quite agree with you, mother, " replied Blaize; "but we mustalso take care of ourselves. If you won't give me the money, at leastput it in a box to carry off at a moment's notice. "

"Don't be afraid, myn zoon, " replied Josyna. "I wond forged id. "

"I'm sadly afraid you will, though, " muttered Blaize, as he walked away. "There's no doing any good with her, " he added to Patience. "She's asobstinate as Mr. Bloundel. I should like to see the fire of all things;but I suppose I musn't leave the house. "

"Of course not, " replied Patience, pettishly; "at such a time it wouldbe highly improper. I forbid that. "

"Then I must need submit, " groaned Blaize--"I can't even have my own waybefore marriage. "

When the proper time arrived, the grocer, accompanied by all his familyand household, except old Josyna, who was left in charge of the house, repaired to the neighbouring church of Saint Alban's, but, finding thedoors closed, and that no service was to be performed, he returned homewith a sorrowful heart. Soon after this, Leonard took Mr. Bloundelapart, and observed to him, "I have a strong conviction that I could beuseful in arresting the progress of the conflagration, and, as I cannotattend church service, I will, with your permission, devote myself tothat object. It is my intention to proceed to Whitehall, and, ifpossible, obtain an audience of the king, and if I succeed in doing so, to lay a plan before him, which I think would prove efficacious. "

"I will not ask what the plan is, " rejoined the grocer, "because I doubtits success. Neither will I oppose your design, which is praiseworthy. Go, and may it prosper. Return in the evening, for I may need yourassistance--perhaps protection. "

Leonard then prepared to set forth. Blaize begged hard to accompany him, but was refused. Forcing his way through the host of carts, coaches, drays, and other vehicles thronging the streets, Leonard made the bestof his way to Whitehall, where he speedily arrived. A large body ofmounted troopers were stationed before the gates of the palace, and aregiment of the foot-guards were drawn up in the court. Drums werebeating to arms, and other martial sounds were heard, showing the alarmthat was felt. Leonard was stopped at the gate by a sentinel, andrefused admittance; and he would in all probability have been turnedback, if at that moment the Lords Argentine and Rochester had not comeup. On seeing him, the former frowned, and passed quickly on, but thelatter halted. 

"You seem to be in some difficulty, " remarked Rochester. "Can I helpyou?"

Leonard was about to turn away, but he checked himself. "I will notsuffer my resentful feelings to operate injuriously to others, " hemuttered. "I desire to see the king, my lord, " he added, to the earl. "Ihave a proposal to make to him, which I think would be a means ofchecking the conflagration. "

"Say you so?" cried Rochester. "Come along, then. Heaven grant your planmay prove successful; in which case, I promise you, you shall be noblyrewarded. "

"I seek no reward, my lord, " replied Leonard. "All I desire is to savethe city. "

"Well, well, " rejoined Rochester, "it will be time enough to refuse hismajesty's bounty when offered. "

Upon this, he ordered the sentinel to withdraw, and Leonard followed himinto the palace. They found the entrance-hall filled with groups ofofficers and attendants, all conversing together, it was evident fromtheir looks and manner, on the one engrossing topic--the conflagration. Ascending a magnificent staircase, and traversing part of a grandgallery, they entered an ante-room, in which a number of courtiers and. Pages--amongst the latter of whom was Chiffinch--were assembled. At thedoor of the inner chamber stood a couple of ushers, and as the earlapproached, it was instantly thrown open. As Leonard, however, whofollowed close behind his leader, passed Chiffinch, the latter caughthold of his arm and detained him. Hearing the movement, Rochesterturned, and said quickly to the page, "Let him pass, he is going withme. "

"Old Rowley is in no humour for a jest to-day, my lord, " repliedChiffinch, familiarly. "He is more serious than I have ever before seenhim, and takes this terrible fire sadly to heart, as well he may. Mr. Secretary Pepys, of the Admiralty, is with him, and is detailing allparticulars of the calamity to him, I believe. "

"It is in reference to the fire that I have brought this young man withme, " returned the earl. "Let him pass, I say. State your plan boldly, "he added, as they entered the audience-chamber. 

At the further end of the long apartment, on a chair of state, andbeneath a canopy, sat Charles. He was evidently much disturbed, andlooked eagerly at the new-comers, especially at Leonard, expecting tofind him the bearer of some important intelligence. On the right of theking, and near an open window, which, looking towards the river, commanded a view of the fire on the bridge, as well as of part of theburning city, stood the Duke of York. The duke did not appear muchconcerned at the calamity, but was laughing with Lord Argentine, whostood close beside him. The smile fled from the lips of the latter as hebeheld Leonard, and he looked angrily at Rochester, who did not, however, appear to notice his displeasure. On the left of the royalchair was Mr. Pepys, engaged, as Chiffinch had intimated, in detailingto the king the progress of the conflagration; and next to the secretarystood the Earl of Craven, --a handsome, commanding, and martial-lookingpersonage, though somewhat stricken in years. Three other noblemen--namely, the Lords Hollis, Arlington, and Ashley--were likewise present. 

"Who have you with you, Rochester?" demanded Charles, as the earl andhis companion approached him. 

"A young man, my liege, who desires to make known to you a plan forchecking this conflagration, " replied the earl. 

"Ah!" exclaimed the king; "let him accomplish that for us, and he shallask what he will in return. "

"I ventured to promise him as much, " observed Rochester. 

"Mine is a very simple and a very obvious plan, sire, " said Leonard;"but I will engage, on the peril of my life, if you will give mesufficient authority, and means to work withal, to stop the furtherprogress of this fire. "

"In what way?" asked Charles, impatiently;--"in what way?"

"By demolishing the houses around the conflagration with gunpowder, soas to form a wide gap between those left and the flames, " repliedLeonard. 

"A short and summary process, truly, " replied the king; "but it wouldoccasion great waste of property, and might be attended with otherserious consequences. "

"Not half so much property will be destroyed as if the slower andseemingly safer course of pulling down the houses is pursued, " rejoinedLeonard. "That experiment has been tried and failed. "

"I am of the young man's opinion, " observed the Earl of Craven. 

"And I, " added Pepys. "Better lose half the city than the whole. As itis, your majesty is not safe in your palace. "

"Why, you do not think it can reach Whitehall?" cried the king, rising, and walking to the window. "How say you, brother, " he added, to the Dukeof York--"shall we act upon this young man's suggestion, and order thewholesale demolition of the houses which he recommends?"

"I would not advise your majesty to do so--at least, not withoutconsideration, " answered the duke. "This is a terrible fire, no doubt;but the danger may be greatly exaggerated, and if any ill consequencesshould result from the proposed scheme, the blame will be entirely laidupon your majesty. "

"I care not for that, " replied the king, "provided I feel assured it isfor the best. "

"The plan would do incalculably more mischief than the fire itself, "observed Lord Argentine, "and would be met by the most determinedopposition on the part of the owners of the habitations condemned todestruction. Whole streets will have to be blown up, and your majestywill easily comprehend the confusion and damage that will ensue. "

"Lord Argentine has expressed my sentiments exactly, " said the Duke ofYork. 

"There is nothing for it, then, but for your majesty to call for afiddle, and amuse yourself, like Nero, while your city is burning, "remarked Rochester, sarcastically. 

"Another such jest, my lord, " rejoined the king, sternly, "and it shallcost you your liberty. I will go upon the river instantly, and view thefire myself, and then decide what course shall be adopted. "

"There are rumours that incendiaries are abroad, your majesty, " remarkedArgentine, glancing maliciously at Leonard--"it is not unlikely that hewho lighted the fire should know how to extinguish it. "

"His lordship says truly, " rejoined Leonard. "There _are_ incendiariesabroad, and the chief of them was taken by my hand, and lodged inNewgate, where he lies for examination. "

"Ah!" exclaimed the king, eagerly; "did you catch the miscreant in thefact?"

"No, my liege, " replied Leonard; "but he came to me a few hours beforethe outbreak of the fire, intimating that he was in possession of a plotagainst the city--a design so monstrous, that your majesty would giveany reward to the discloser of it. He proposed to reveal this plot to meon certain terms. "

"And you accepted them?" cried the king. 

"No, my liege, " replied Leonard; "I refused them, and would have securedhim, but he escaped me at that time. I afterwards discovered him amongthe spectators near the fire, and caused his arrest. "

"And who is this villain?" cried the king. 

"I must refer your majesty to Lord Argentine, " replied Leonard. 

"Do you know anything of the transaction, my lord?" said Charles, appealing to him. 

"Not I, your majesty, " said Argentine, vainly endeavouring to concealhis anger and confusion. "The knave has spoken falsely. "

"He shall rue it, if he has done so, " rejoined the monarch. "What hasthe man you speak of to do with Lord Argentine?" he added to Leonard. 

"He is his father, " was the reply. 

Charles looked at Lord Argentine, and became convinced from the alteredexpression of his countenance that the truth had been spoken. He, therefore, arose, and motioning him to follow him, led him into therecess of a window, where they remained in conversation for someminutes. While this was passing, the Earl of Rochester observed, in anundertone to Leonard, "You have made a mortal foe of Lord Argentine, butI will protect you. "

"I require no other protection than I can afford myself, my lord, "rejoined Leonard, coldly. 

Shortly after this, Charles stepped forward with a graver aspect thanbefore, and said, "Before proceeding to view this conflagration, I mustgive some directions in reference to it. To you, my Lord Craven, whoseintrepidity I well know, I intrust the most important post. You willstation yourself at the east of the conflagration, and if you find itmaking its way to the Tower, as I hear is the case, check it at allhazards. The old fortress must be preserved at any risk. But do notresort to gunpowder unless you receive an order from me accompanied bymy signet-ring. My Lords Hollis and Ashley, you will have the care ofthe north-west of the city. Station yourselves near Newgate Market. Rochester and Arlington, your posts will be at Saint Paul's. Watch overthe august cathedral. I would not have it injured for half my kingdom. Brother, " he added to the Duke of York, "you will accompany me in mybarge--and you, Mr. Pepys. You, young man, " to Leonard, "can follow inmy train. "

"Has your majesty no post for me?" asked Argentine. 

"No, " replied Charles, turning coldly from him. 

"Had not your majesty better let him have the custody of your gaol ofNewgate?" remarked Rochester, sarcastically; "he has an interest in itssafe keeping. "

Lord Argentine turned deadly pale, but he made no answer. Attended bythe Duke of York and Mr. Pepys, and followed at a respectful distance byLeonard, the king then passed through the ante-room, and descending thegrand staircase, traversed a variety of passages, until he reached theprivate stairs communicating with the river. At the foot lay the royalbarge, in which he embarked with his train. Charles appeared greatlymoved by the sight of the thousands of his houseless subjects, whom heencountered in his passage down the Thames, and whenever a feeble shoutwas raised for him, he returned it with a blessing. When nearly oppositeQueenhithe, he commanded the rowers to pause. The conflagration had madeformidable progress since Leonard' beheld it a few hours back, and hadadvanced, nearly as far as the Still-yard on the river-side, while itwas burning upwards through thick ranks of houses, almost as far asCannon-street. The roaring of the flames was louder than ever--and thecrash of falling habitations, and the tumult and cries of the affrightedpopulace, yet more terrific. 

Charles gazed at the appalling spectacle like one who could not believehis senses, and it was some time before the overwhelming truth couldforce itself upon him. Tears then started to his eyes, and, uttering anejaculation of despair, he commanded the rowers to make instantly forthe shore. 

V. 

HOW LEONARD SAVED THE KING'S LIFE. 

The royal barge landed at Queenhithe, and Charles instantlydisembarking, proceeded on foot, and at a pace that compelled, hisattendants to move quickly, to keep up with him, to Thames-street. Here, however, the confusion was so great, owing to the rush of people, andthe number of vehicles employed in the removal of goods, that he wasobliged to come to a halt. Fortunately, at this moment, a company of thetrain-bands rode up, and their leader dismounting, offered his horse tothe king, who instantly sprang into the saddle, and scarcely waitingtill the Duke of York could be similarly accommodated, forced his waythrough the crowd as far as Brewer-lane, where his progress was stoppedby the intense heat. A little more than a hundred yards from this point, the whole street was on fire, and the flames bursting from the windowsand roofs of the houses, with a roar like that which might be supposedto be produced by the forges of the Cyclops, united in a vast blazingarch overhead. It chanced, too, that in some places cellars filled withcombustible materials extended under the street, and here the groundwould crack, and jets of fire shoot forth like the eruption of avolcano. The walls and timbers of the houses at some distance from theconflagration were scorched and blistered with the heat, and completelyprepared for ignition; overhead being a vast and momentarily increasingcloud of flame-coloured smoke, which spread all over the city, fillingit as with a thick mist, while the glowing vault above looked, as Evelynexpresses it, "like the top of a burning oven. "

Two churches, namely, Allhallows the Great and Allhallows the Less, wereburnt down in the king's sight, and the lofty spire of a third, SaintLawrence Poulteney, had just caught fire, and looked like a flame-tippedspear. After contemplating this spectacle for some time, Charles rousedhimself from the state of stupefaction into which he was thrown, anddetermined, if possible, to arrest the further progress of the devouringelement along the river-side, commanded all the houses on the west ofDowgate Dock to be instantly demolished. A large body of men weretherefore set upon this difficult and dangerous, and, as it proved, futile task. Another party were ordered to the same duty onDowgate-hill; and the crash of tumbling walls and beams was soon addedto the general uproar, while clouds of dust darkened the air. It waswith some difficulty that a sufficient space could be kept clear forcarrying these operations into effect; and long before they werehalf-completed, Charles had the mortification of finding the firegaining ground so rapidly, that they must prove ineffectual. Word wasbrought at this juncture that a fresh fire had broken out in Elbow-lane, and while the monarch was listening to this dreary intelligence, afearful cry was heard near the river, followed, the next moment, by atumultuous rush of persons from that quarter. The fire, as if in scorn, had leapt across Dowgate Dock, and seizing upon the half-demolishedhouses, instantly made them its prey. The rapidity with which theconflagration proceeded was astounding, and completely baffled allattempts to check it. The wind continued blowing as furiously as ever, nor was there the slightest prospect of its abatement. All the king'sbetter qualities were called into play by the present terrible crisis. With a courage and devotion that he seldom displayed, he exposed himselfto the greatest risk, personally assisting at all the operations hecommanded; while his humane attention to the sufferers by the calamityalmost reconciled them to their deplorable situation. His movements werealmost as rapid as those of the fire itself. Riding up Cannon-street, and from thence by Sweeting's-lane, to Lombard-street, and so on byFenchurch-street to Tower-street, he issued directions all the way, checking every disturbance, and causing a band of depredators, who hadbroken into the house of a wealthy goldsmith, to be carried off toNewgate. Arrived in Tower-street, he found the Earl of Craven and hisparty stationed a little beyond Saint Dunstan's in the East. 

All immediate apprehensions in this quarter appeared at an end. Thechurch had been destroyed, as before mentioned, but several houses inits vicinity having been demolished, the fire had not extended eastward. Satisfied that the Tower was in no immediate danger, the king retracedhis course, and encountering the lord mayor in Lombard-street, sharplyreproved him for his want of zeal and discretion. 

"I do not deserve your majesty's reproaches, " replied the lord mayor. "Ever since the fire broke out I have not rested an instant, and amalmost worn to death with anxiety and fatigue. I am just returned fromGuildhall, where a vast quantity of plate belonging to the citycompanies has been deposited. Lord! Lord! what a fire this is!"

"You are chiefly to blame for its getting so much ahead, " replied theking, angrily. "Had you adopted vigorous measures at the outset, itmight have easily been got under. I hear no water was to be obtained. How was that?"

"It is a damnable plot, your majesty, designed by the Papists, or theDutch, or the French--I don't know which--perhaps all three, " rejoinedthe lord mayor; "and it appears that the cocks of all the pipes at thewaterworks at Islington were turned, while the pipes and conduits in thecity were empty. This is no accidental fire, your majesty. "

"So I find, " replied the king; "but it will be time enough to inquireinto its origin hereafter. Meantime, we must act, and energetically, orwe shall be equally as much to blame as the incendiaries. Let aproclamation be made, enjoining all those persons who have been drivenfrom their homes by the fire to proceed, with such effects as they havepreserved, to Moorfields, where their wants shall be cared for. "

"It shall be made instantly, your majesty, " replied the lord mayor. 

"Your next business will be to see to the removal of all the wealth fromthe goldsmiths' houses in this street, and in Gracechurch-street, tosome places of security, Guildhall, or the Royal Exchange, forinstance, " continued the king. 

"Your majesty's directions shall be implicitly obeyed, " replied the lordmayor. 

"You will then pull down all the houses to the east of the fire, "pursued the king. "Get all the men you can muster; and never relax yourexertions till you have made a wide and clear breach between the flamesand their prey. "

"I will--I will, your majesty, " groaned the lord mayor. 

"About it, then, " rejoined the king; and striking spurs into his horse, he rode off with his train. 

He now penetrated one of the narrow alleys leading to the Three Cranesin the Vintry, where he ascended to the roof of the habitation, that hemight view the fire. He saw that it was making such rapid advancestowards him, that it must very soon reach the building on which hestood, and, half suffocated with the smoke, and scorched with thefire-drops, he descended. 

Not long after this, Waterman's Hall was discovered to be on fire; and, stirred by the sight, Charles made fresh efforts to check the progressof the conflagration by demolishing more houses. So eagerly did heoccupy himself in the task, that his life had well-nigh fallen asacrifice to his zeal. He was standing below a building which theworkmen were unroofing, when all at once the whole of the upper part ofthe wall gave way, dragging several heavy beams with it, and would haveinfallibly crushed him, if Leonard, who was stationed behind him, hadnot noticed the circumstance, and rushing forward with the greatestpromptitude, dragged him out of harm's way. An engineer, with whom theking was conversing at the time of the accident, was buried in theruins, and when taken out was found fearfully mutilated and quite dead. Both Charles and his preserver were covered with dust and rubbish, andLeonard received a severe blow on the shoulder from a falling brick. 

On recovering from the shock, which for some moments deprived him of thepower of speech, Charles inquired for his deliverer, and, on being shownhim, said, with a look of surprise and pleasure, "What, is it you, youngman? I am glad of it. Depend, upon it, I shall not forget the importantservice you have rendered me. "

"If he remembers it, it will be the first time he has ever so exercisedhis memory, " observed Chiffinch, in a loud whisper to Leonard. "I adviseyou, as a friend, not to let his gratitude cool. "

Undeterred by this late narrow escape, Charles ordered fresh houses tobe demolished, and stimulated the workmen to exertion by his personalsuperintendence of their operations. He commanded Leonard to keepconstantly near him, laughingly observing, "I shall feel safe while youare by. You have a better eye for a falling house than any of myattendants. "

Worn out at length with fatigue, Charles proceeded, with the Duke ofYork and his immediate attendants, to Painters' Hall, in littleTrinity-lane, in quest of refreshment, where a repast was hastilyprepared for him, and he sat down to it with an appetite such as themost magnificent banquet could not, under other circumstances, haveprovoked. His hunger satisfied, he despatched messengers to command theimmediate attendance of the lord mayor, the sheriffs, and aldermen; andwhen they arrived, he thus addressed them:--"My lord mayor andgentlemen, it has been recommended to me by this young man, " pointing toLeonard, "that the sole way of checking the further progress of thisdisastrous conflagration, which threatens the total destruction of ourcity, will be by blowing up the houses with gunpowder, so as to form awide gap between the flames and the habitations yet remaining unseized. This plan will necessarily involve great destruction of property, andmay, notwithstanding all the care that can be adopted, be attended withsome loss of life; but I conceive it will be effectual. Before orderingit, however, to be put into execution, I desire to learn your opinion ofit. How say you, my lord mayor and gentlemen? Does the plan meet withyour approbation?"

"I pray your majesty to allow me to confer for a moment with mybrethren, " replied the lord mayor, cautiously, "before I return ananswer. It is too serious a matter to decide upon at once. "

"Be it so, " replied the king. 

And the civic authorities withdrew with the king. Leonard heard, thoughhe did not dare to remark upon it, that the Duke of York leaned forwardas the lord mayor passed him, and whispered in his ear, "Take heed whatyou do. He only desires to shift the responsibility of the act from hisown shoulders to yours. "

"If they assent, " said the king to Leonard, "I will place you at thehead of a party of engineers. "

"I beseech your majesty neither to regard me nor them, " replied Leonard. "Use the authority it has pleased Heaven to bestow upon you for thepreservation of the city, and think and act for yourself, or you willassuredly regret your want of decision. It has been my fortune, with theassistance of God, to be the humble instrument of accomplishing yourmajesty's deliverance from peril, and I have your royal word that youwill not forget it. "

"Nor will I, " cried the king, hastily. 

"Then suffer the petition I now make to you to prevail, " cried Leonard, falling on his knees. "Be not influenced by the opinion of the lordmayor and his brethren, whose own interests may lead them to oppose theplan; but, if you think well of it, instantly adopt it. "

Charles looked irresolute, but might have yielded, if the Duke of Yorkhad not stepped forward. "Your majesty had better not act tooprecipitately, " said the duke. "Listen to the counsels of your prudentadvisers. A false step in such a case will be irretrievable. "

"Nay, brother, " rejoined the king, "I see no particular risk in it, after all, and I incline towards the young man's opinion. "

"At least, hear what they have got to say, " rejoined the duke. "And herethey come. They have not been long in deliberation. "

"The result of it may be easily predicted, " said Leonard, rising. 

As Leonard had foreseen, the civic authorities were adverse to the plan. The lord mayor in the name of himself and his brethren, earnestlysolicited the king to postpone the execution of his order till all othermeans of checking the progress of the conflagration had been tried, andtill such time, at least, as the property of the owners of the houses tobe destroyed could be removed. He further added, that it was theunanimous opinion of himself and his brethren, that the plan was fraughtwith great peril to the safety of the citizens, and that they could notbring themselves to assent to it. If, therefore, his majesty chose toadopt it, they must leave the responsibility with him. 

"I told your majesty how it would be, " observed the Duke of York, triumphantly. 

"I am sorry to find you are right, brother, " replied the king, frowning. "We are overruled, you see, friend, " he added to Leonard. 

"Your majesty has signed the doom of your city, " rejoined Leonard, mournfully. 

"I trust not--I trust not, " replied Charles, hastily, and with an uneasyshrug of the shoulder. "Fail not to remind me when all is over of theobligation I am under to you. "

"Your majesty has refused the sole boon I desired to have granted, "rejoined Leonard. 

"And do you not see the reason, friend?" returned the king. "Theseworthy and wealthy citizens desire to remove their property. Theirarguments are unanswerable. I _must_ give them time to do it. But wewaste time here, " he added, rising. "Remember, " to Leonard, "my debt isnot discharged. And I command you, on pain of my sovereign displeasure, not to omit to claim its payment. "

"I will enter it in my memorandum-book, and will put your majesty inmind of it at the fitting season, " observed Chiffinch, who had taken agreat fancy to Leonard. 

The king smiled good-humouredly, and quitting the hall with hisattendants, proceeded to superintend the further demolition of houses. He next visited all the posts, saw that the different noblemen were attheir appointed stations, and by his unremitting exertions, contrived torestore something like order to the tumultuous streets. Thousands of menwere now employed in different quarters in pulling down houses, and themost powerful engines of war were employed in the work. The confusionthat attended these proceedings is indescribable. The engineers andworkmen wrought in clouds of dust and smoke, and the crash of fallingtimber and walls was deafening. In a short time, the upper part ofCornhill was rendered wholly impassable, owing to the heaps of rubbish;and directions were given to the engineers to proceed to the Poultry, and demolish the houses as far as the Conduit in Cheapside, by whichmeans it was hoped that the Royal Exchange would be saved. 

Meanwhile, all the wealthy goldsmiths and merchants in Lombard-streetand Gracechurch-street had been actively employed in removing all theirmoney, plate, and goods, to places of security. A vast quantity wasconveyed to Guildhall, as has been stated, and the rest to differentchurches and halls remote from the scene of conflagration. But in spiteof all their caution, much property was carried off by the depredators, and amongst others by Chowles and Judith, who contrived to secure a massof plate, gold, and jewels, that satisfied even their rapacious souls. While this was passing in the heart of the burning city, vast crowdswere streaming out of its gates, and encamping themselves, in pursuanceof the royal injunction, in Finsbury Fields and Spitalfields. Otherscrossed the water to Southwark, and took refuge in Saint George'sFields; and it was a sad and touching sight to see all these familiescollected without shelter or food, most of whom a few hours before werein possession of all the comforts of life, but were now reduced to thecondition of beggars. 

To return to the conflagration:--While one party continued to labourincessantly at the work of demolition, and ineffectually sought toquench the flames, by bringing a few engines to play upon them, --ascanty supply of water having now been obtained--the fire, disdainingsuch puny opposition, and determined to show its giant strength, leapedover all the breaches, drove the water-carriers back, compelled them torelinquish their buckets, and to abandon their engines, which it madeits prey, and seizing upon the heaps of timber and other fragmentsoccasioned by the demolition, consumed them, and marched onwards withfurious exultation. It was now proceeding up Gracechurch-street, SaintClement's-lane, Nicholas-lane, and Abchurch-lane at the same time, destroying all in its course. The whole of Lombard-street was choked upwith the ruins and rubbish of demolished houses, through which thousandsof persons were toiling to carry off goods, either for the purpose ofassistance or of plunder. The king was at the west end of the street, near the church of Saint Mary Woolnoth, and the fearful havoc anddestruction going forward drew tears from his eyes. A scene of greaterconfusion cannot be imagined. Leonard was in the midst of it, and, careless of his own safety, toiled amid the tumbling fragments of thehouses to rescue some article of value for its unfortunate owner. Whilehe was thus employed, he observed a man leap out of a window of a partlydemolished house, disclosing in the action that he had a casketconcealed under his cloak. 

A second glance showed him that this individual was Pillichody, andsatisfied that he had been plundering the house, he instantly seizedhim. The bully struggled violently, but at last, dropping the casket, made his escape, vowing to be revenged. Leonard laughed at his threats, and the next moment had the satisfaction of restoring the casket to itsrightful owner, an old merchant, who issued from the house, and who, after thanking him, told him it contained jewels of immense value. 

Not half an hour after this, the flames poured upon Lombard-street fromthe four avenues before mentioned, and the whole neighbourhood was onfire. With inconceivable rapidity, they then ran up Birchin-lane, andreaching Cornhill, spread to the right and left in that greatthoroughfare. The conflagration had now reached the highest point of thecity, and presented the grandest and most terrific aspect it had yetassumed from the river. Thus viewed, it appeared, as Pepys describes it, "as an entire arch of fire from the Three Cranes to the other side ofthe bridge, and in a bow up the hill, for an arch of above a mile long:_it made me weep to see it_. " Vincent also likens its appearance at thisjuncture to that of a bow. "A dreadful bow it was, " writes this eloquentnonconformist preacher, "such as mine eyes have never before seen; a bowwhich had God's arrow in it with a flaming point; a shining bow, notlike that in the cloud which brings water with it, and withal signifiethGod's covenant not to destroy the world any more with water, but a bowhaving fire in it, and signifying God's anger, and his intention todestroy London with fire. "

As the day drew to a close, and it became darker, the spectacleincreased in terror and sublimity. The tall black towers of the churchesassumed ghastly forms, and to some eyes appeared like infernal spiritsplunging in a lake of flame, while even to the most reckless theconflagration seemed to present a picture of the terrors of the LastDay. Never before had such a night as that which ensued fallen uponLondon. None of its inhabitants thought of retiring to rest, or if theysought repose after the excessive fatigue they had undergone, it wasonly in such manner as would best enable them to rise and renew theirexertions to check the flames, which were continued throughout thenight, but wholly without success. The conflagration appeared to proceedat the same appalling rapidity. Halls, towers, churches, public andprivate buildings, were burning to the number of more than ten thousand, while clouds of smoke covered the vast expanse of more than fifty miles. Travellers approaching London from the north-east were enveloped in itten miles off, and the fiery reflection in the sky could be discerned atan equal distance. The "hideous storm, " as Evelyn terms the fearful andastounding noise produced by the roaring of the flames and the fallingof the numerous fabrics, continued without intermission during the wholeof that fatal night. 

VI. 

HOW THE GROCER'S HOUSE WAS BURNT. 

It was full ten o'clock before Leonard could obtain permission to quitthe king's party, and he immediately hurried to Wood-street. He hadscarcely entered it, when the cry of "fire" smote his ears, and rushingforward in an agony of apprehension, he beheld Mr. Bloundel's dwellingin flames. A large crowd was collected before the burning habitation, keeping guard over a vast heap of goods and furniture that had beenremoved from it. 

So much beloved was Mr. Bloundel, and in such high estimation was hischaracter held, that all his neighbours, on learning that his house wason fire, flew to his assistance, and bestirred themselves so actively, that in an extraordinary short space of time they had emptied the houseof every article of value, and placed it out of danger in the street. Invain the grocer urged them to desist: his entreaties were disregarded byhis zealous friends; and when he told them they were profaning theSabbath, they replied that the responsibility of their conduct wouldrest entirely on themselves, and they hoped they might never haveanything worse to answer for. In spite of his disapproval of what wasdone, the grocer could not but be sensibly touched by their devotion, and as to his wife, she said, with tears in her eyes, that "it wasalmost worth while having a fire to prove what good friends they had. "

It was at this juncture that Leonard arrived. Way was instantly made forhim, and leaping over the piles of chests and goods that blocked up thethoroughfare, he flew to Mr. Bloundel, who was standing in front of hisflaming habitation with as calm and unmoved an expression of countenanceas if nothing was happening, and presently ascertained from him in whatmanner the fire had originated. It appeared that while the whole of thefamily were assembled at prayers, in the room ordinarily used for thatpurpose, they were alarmed at supper by a strong smell of smoke, whichseemed to arise from the lower part of the house, and that as soon astheir devotions were ended, for Mr. Bloundel would not allow them tostir before, Stephen and Blaize had proceeded to ascertain the cause, and on going down to the kitchen, found a dense smoke issuing from theadjoining cellar, the door of which stood ajar. Hearing a noise in theyard, they darted up the back steps, communicating with the cellar, anddiscovered a man trying to make his escape over the wall by arope-ladder. Stephen instantly seized him, and the man, drawing a sword, tried to free himself from his captor. In the struggle, he dropped apistol, which Blaize snatching up, discharged with fatal effect againstthe wretch, who, on examination, proved to be Pillichody. 

Efforts were made to check the fire, but in vain. The villain hadaccomplished his diabolical purpose too well. Acquainted with thepremises, and with the habits of the family, he had got into the yard bymeans of a rope-ladder, and hiding himself till the servants weresummoned to prayers, stole into the cellar, and placing a fire-ball amida heap of fagots and coals, and near several large casks of oil, andother inflammable matters, struck a light, and set fire to it. 

"I shall ever reproach myself that I was away when this calamityoccurred, " observed Leonard, as the grocer brought his relation to anend. 

"Then you will do so without reason, " replied Mr. Bloundel, "for youcould have rendered no assistance, and you see my good neighbours havetaken the matter entirely out of my hands. "

"Whither do you intend removing, sir?" rejoined Leonard. "If I mightsuggest, I would advise you to go to Farmer Wingfield's, at KensalGreen. "

"You have anticipated my intention, " replied the grocer; "but we mustnow obtain some vehicles to transport these goods thither. "

"Be that my part, " replied Leonard. And in a short space of time he hadprocured half a dozen large carts, into which the whole of the goodswere speedily packed, and a coach having been likewise fetched byBlaize, Mrs. Bloundel and the three younger children, together with oldJosyna and Patience, were placed in it. 

"I hope your mother has taken care of her money, " whispered the latterto the porter, as he assisted her into the vehicle. 

"Never mind whether she has or not, " rejoined Blaize, in the same tone;"we shan't want it. I am now as rich as my master--perhaps richer. Onstripping that rascal Pillichody, I found a large bag of gold, besidesseveral caskets of jewels, upon him, all of which I consider lawfulspoil, as he fell by my hand. "

"To be sure, " rejoined Patience. "I dare say he did not come veryhonestly by the treasures, but you can't help that, you know. "

Blaize made no reply, but pushing her into the coach, shut the door. Allbeing now in readiness, directions were given to the drivers of thecarts whither to proceed, and they were put in motion. At this momentthe grocer's firmness deserted him. Gazing at the old habitation, whichwas now wrapped in a sheet of flame, he cried in a voice broken withemotion, "In that house I have dwelt nearly thirty years--in that houseall my children were born--in that house I found a safe refuge from thedevouring pestilence. It is hard to quit it thus. "

Controlling his emotion, however, the next moment, he turned away. Buthis feelings were destined to another trial. His neighbours flockedround him to bid him farewell, in tones of such sympathy and regard, that his constancy again deserted him. 

"Thank you, thank you, " he cried, pressing in turn each hand that wasoffered him. "Your kindness will never be effaced from my memory. Godbless you all, and may He watch over you and protect you!" and withthese words he broke from them. So great was the crowd and confusion inCheapside, that nearly two hours elapsed before they reached Newgate;and, indeed, if it had not been for the interference of the Earl ofRochester, they would not, in all probability, have got out of the cityat all. The earl was stationed near the Old 'Change, at the entrance toSaint Paul's Churchyard, and learning their distress, ordered a party ofthe guard by whom he was attended to force a passage for them. Both Mr. Bloundel and Leonard would have declined this assistance if they had hadthe power of doing so, but there was no help in the present case. 

They encountered no further difficulties, but were necessarily compelledto proceed at a slow pace, and did not reach Paddington for nearly twohours, being frequently stopped by persons eagerly asking as to theprogress of the fire. One circumstance struck the whole party asremarkable. Such was the tremendous glare of the conflagration, thateven at this distance the fire seemed close beside them, and if they hadnot known the contrary, they would have thought it could not be furtheroff than Saint Giles's. The whole eastern sky in that direction seemedon fire, and glowed through the clouds of yellow smoke with which theair was filled with fearful splendour. After halting for a short time atthe Wheat Sheaf, which they found open, --for, indeed, no house wasclosed that night, --to obtain some refreshment, and allay theintolerable thirst by which they were tormented, the party pursued theirjourney along the Harrow-road, and in due time approached Wingfield'sresidence. 

The honest farmer, who, with his wife and two of his men, was standingin a field at the top of the hill, gazing at the conflagration, hearingthe noise occasioned by the carts, ran to the road-side to see what wascoming, and encountered Mr. Bloundel and Leonard, who had walked up theascent a little more quickly than the others. 

"I have been thinking of you, " he said, after a cordial greeting hadpassed between them, "and wondering what would become of you in thisdreadful fire. Nay, I had just told my dame I should go and look afteryou, and see whether I could be of any service to you. Well, I should bebetter pleased to see you in any way but this, though you could not bewelcomer. I have room in the barn and outhouses for all you havebrought, and hope and trust you have not lost much. "

"I have lost nothing except the old house, " replied the grocer, heavinga sigh. 

"Another will soon be built, " rejoined Wingfield, "and till that is doneyou shall not quit mine. "

The coach having by this time arrived, Wingfield hastened towards it, and assisted its occupants to alight. Mrs. Bloundel was warmly welcomedby Dame Wingfield, and being taken with her children to the house, wastruly happy to find herself under the shelter of its hospitable roof. The rest of the party, assisted by Wingfield and his men, exertingthemselves to the utmost, the carts were speedily unloaded, and thegoods deposited in the barns and outhouses. This done, the drivers wereliberally rewarded for their trouble by Mr. Bloundel, and after drainingseveral large jugs of ale brought them by the farmer, made the best oftheir way back, certain of obtaining further employment during thenight. 

Fatigued as he was, Leonard, before retiring to rest, could not helplingering on the brow of the hill to gaze at the burning city. The sameeffect was observable here as at Paddington, and the conflagrationappeared little more than a mile off. The whole heavens seemed on fire, and a distant roar was heard like the rush of a high wind through amighty forest. Westminster Abbey and Saint Paul's could be distinctlyseen in black relief against the sheet of flame, together withinnumerable towers, spires, and other buildings, the whole constitutinga picture unsurpassed for terrific grandeur since the world began, andonly to be equalled by its final destruction. 

Having gazed at the conflagration for some time, and fancied that hecould even at this distance discern the fearful progress it made, Leonard retired to the barn, and throwing himself upon a heap of straw, instantly fell asleep. He was awakened the next morning by FarmerWingfield, who came to tell him breakfast was ready, and havingperformed his ablutions, they adjourned to the house. Finding Mr. Bloundel comfortably established in his new quarters, Leonard proposedas soon as breakfast was over to proceed to town, and Wingfieldvolunteered to accompany him. Blaize, also, having placed his treasures, except a few pieces of gold, in the custody of Patience, begged to makeone of the party, and his request being acceded to, the trio set out onfoot, and gleaning fresh particulars of the fearful progress of thefire, as they advanced, passed along Oxford-road, and crossing HolbornBridge, on the western side of which they were now demolishing thehouses, mounted Snow-hill, and passed through the portal of Newgate. 

Here they learnt that the whole of Wood-street was consumed, that thefire had spread eastward as far as Gutter-lane, and that Saint Michael'sChurch, adjoining Wood-street, Goldsmiths' Hall, and the church of SaintJohn Zachary, were in flames. They were also told that the greater partof Cheapside was on fire, and wholly impassable--while the destructiveelement was invading at one and the same time Guildhall and the RoyalExchange. They furthermore learnt that the conflagration had spreadfearfully along the side of the river, had passed Queenhithe, consumingall the wharves and warehouses in its way, and having just destroyedPaul's Wharf, was at that time assailing Baynard's Castle. Thisintelligence determined them not to attempt to proceed further into thecity, which they saw was wholly impracticable; and they accordinglyturned down Ivy-lane, and approached the cathedral with the intention, if possible, of ascending the central tower. They found a swarm ofbooksellers' porters and assistants at the northern entrance, engaged intransporting immense bales of books and paper to the vaults in SaintFaith's, where it was supposed the stock would be in safety, permissionto that effect having been obtained from the dean and chapter. 

Forcing their way through this crowd, Leonard and his companions crossedthe transept, and proceeded towards the door of the spiral staircaseleading to the central tower. It was open, and they passed through it. On reaching the summit of the tower, which they found occupied by somedozen or twenty persons, a spectacle that far exceeded the utmoststretch of their imaginations burst upon them. Through clouds of tawnysmoke scarcely distinguishable from flame, so thickly were they chargedwith sparks and fire-flakes, they beheld a line of fire spreading alongCheapside and Cornhill, as far as the Royal Exchange, which was now inflames, and branching upwards in another line through Lawrence-lane toGuildhall, which was likewise burning. Nearer to them, on the north, thefire kindled by the wretched Pillichody, who only, perhaps, anticipatedthe work of destruction by a few hours, had, as they had heard, proceeded to Goldsmiths' Hall, and was rapidly advancing down SaintAnn's-lane to Aldersgate. But it was on the right, and to thesouth-east, that the conflagration assumed its most terrific aspect. There, from Bow Church to the river-side, beyond the bridge as far asBillingsgate, and from thence up Mincing-lane, crossing Fenchurch-streetand Lime-street to Gracechurch and Cornhill, describing a space of morethan two miles in length and one in depth, every habitation was on fire. The appearance of this bed of flame was like an ocean of fire agitatedby a tempest, in which a number of barks were struggling, some of thembeing each moment engulfed. The stunning and unearthly roar of theflames aided this appearance, which was further heightened by theenormous billows of flame that ever and anon rolled tumultuously onwardas they were caught by some gust of wind of more than usual violence. The spires of the churches looked like the spars of "tall admirals, "that had foundered, while the blackening ruins of the halls and largerbuildings well represented the ribs and beams of mighty hulks. 

Leaving Leonard and his companions to the contemplation of thistremendous spectacle, we shall proceed to take a nearer view of itsravages. Every effort had been used to preserve the Royal Exchange bythe city authorities, and by the engineers, headed by the king inperson. All the buildings in its vicinity were demolished. But in vain. The irresistible and unrelenting foe drove the defenders back as before, seized upon their barricades, and used them, like a skilful besieger, against the fortress they sought to protect. Solomon Eagle, who wasmounted upon a heap of ruins, witnessed this scene of destruction, anduttered a laugh of exultation as the flames seized upon their prey. 

"I told you, " he cried, "that the extortioners and usurers who resortedto that building, and made gold their god, would be driven forth, andtheir temple destroyed. And my words have come to pass. It burns--itburns--and so shall they, if they turn not from their ways. "

Hearing this wild speech, and beholding the extraordinary figure of theenthusiast, whose scorched locks and smoke-begrimed limbs gave himalmost the appearance of an infernal spirit, the king inquired, withsome trepidation, from his attendants, who or what he was, and beinginformed, ordered them to seize him. But the enthusiast set theirattempts at naught. Springing with wonderful agility from fragment tofragment of the ruins, and continuing his vociferations, he at lastplunged through the flame into the Exchange itself, rendering furtherpursuit, of course, impossible, unless those who desired to capture him, were determined to share his fate, which now seemed inevitable. To theastonishment of all, however, he appeared a few minutes afterwards onthe roof of the blazing pile, and continued his denunciations tilldriven away by the flames. He seemed, indeed, to bear a charmed life, for it was rumoured--though the report was scarcely credited--that hehad escaped from the burning building, and made good his retreat toSaint Paul's. Soon after this, the Exchange was one mass of flame. Having gained an entrance to the galleries, the fire ran round them withinconceivable swiftness, as was the case in the conflagration of thislater structure, and filling every chamber, gushed out of the windows, and poured down upon the courts and walks below. Fearful and prodigiouswas the ruin that ensued. The stone walls cracked with the intenseheat--tottered and fell--the pillars shivered and broke asunder, thestatues dropped from their niches, and were destroyed, one onlysurviving the wreck--that of the illustrious founder, Sir ThomasGresham. 

Deploring the fate of the Royal Exchange, the king and his attendantsproceeded to Guildhall. But here they were too late, nor could they evenrescue a tithe of the plate and valuables lodged within it for security. The effects of the fire as displayed in this structure, were singularlygrand and surprising. The greater part of the ancient fabric beingcomposed of oak of the hardest kind, it emitted little flame, but becameafter a time red hot, and remained in this glowing state till night, when it resembled, as an eye-witness describes, "a mighty palace ofgold, or a great building of burnished brass. "

The greatest fury of the conflagration was displayed at the Poultry, where five distinct fires met, and united their forces--one which cameroaring down Cornhill from the Royal Exchange--a second downThreadneedle-street--a third up Walbrook--a fourth alongBucklersbury--and a fifth that marched against the wind up Cheapside, all these uniting, as at a focus, a whirl of flame, an intensity ofheat, and a thundering roar were produced, such as were nowhere elseexperienced. 

To return to the party on the central tower of the cathedral:--Stunnedand half stifled by the roar and smoke, Leonard and his companionsdescended from their lofty post, and returned to the body of the fane. They were about to issue forth, when Leonard, glancing down the northernaisle, perceived the Earl of Rochester and Lord Argentine standingtogether at the lower end of it. Their gestures showed that it was notan amicable meeting, and mindful of what had passed at Whitehall, Leonard resolved to abide the result. Presently, he saw Lord Argentineturn sharply round, and strike his companion in the face with his glove. The clash of swords instantly succeeded, and Leonard and Wingfieldstarted forward to separate the combatants. Blaize, followed, but morecautiously, contenting himself with screaming at the top of his voice, "Murder! murder! sacrilege! a duel! a duel!"

Wingfield was the first to arrive at the scene of strife, but just as hereached the combatants, who were too much blinded by passion to noticehis approach, Lord Argentine struck his adversary's weapon from hisgrasp, and would have followed up the advantage if the farmer had notwithheld his arm. Enraged at the interference, Argentine turned his furyagainst the newcomer, and strove to use his sword against him--but inthe terrible struggle that ensued, and at the close of which they felltogether, the weapon, as if directed by the hand of an avenging fate, passed through his own breast, inflicting a mortal wound. 

"Susan Wingfield is avenged!" said the farmer, as he arose, drenched inthe blood of his opponent. 

"Susan Wingfield!" exclaimed the wounded man--"what was she to you?"

"Much, " replied the farmer. "She was my daughter. "

"Ah!" exclaimed Argentine, with an expression of unutterable anguish. "Let me have your forgiveness, " he groaned. 

"You have it, " replied Wingfield, kneeling beside him, "and may Godpardon us both--you for the wrong you did my daughter, me for beingaccidentally the cause of your death. But I trust you are not mortallyhurt?"

"I have not many minutes to live, " replied Argentine. "But is not thatLeonard Holt?"

"It is, " said Rochester, stepping forward. 

"I can then do one rightful act before I die, " he said, raising himselfon one hand, and holding the other forcibly to his side, so as to stanchin some degree the effusion of blood. "Leonard Holt, " he continued, "mysister Isabella loves you--deeply, devotedly. I have tried to conquerthe passion, but in vain. You have my consent to wed her. "

"I am a witness to your words my lord, " said Rochester, "and I call uponall present to be so likewise. "

"Rochester, you were once my friend, " groaned Argentine, "and may yet bea friend to the dead. Remember the king sells titles. Teach this youngman how to purchase one. My sister must not wed one of his degree. "

"Make yourself easy on that score, " replied Rochester; "he has alreadysufficient claim upon the king. He saved his life yesterday. "

"He will trust to a broken reed if he trusts to Charles's gratitude, "replied Argentine. "Buy the title--_buy_ it, I say. My sister left meyesterday. I visited my anger on her head, and she fled. I believe shetook refuge with Doctor Hodges, but I am sure he can tell you where sheis. One thing more, " continued the dying man, fixing his glazing eyes onLeonard. "Go to Newgate--to--to a prisoner there--an incendiary--andobtain a document of him. Tell him, with my dying breath I charged youto do this. It will enable you to act as I have directed. Promise me youwill go. Promise me you will fulfil my injunctions. "

"I do, " replied Leonard. 

"Enough, " rejoined Argentine. "May you be happy with Isabella. " Andremoving his hand from his side, a copious effusion of blood followed, and, sinking backwards, he expired. 

VII. 

THE BURNING OF SAINT PAUL'S. 

Several other persons having by this time come up, the body of LordArgentine was conveyed to Bishop Kempe's Chapel, and left there till afitting season should arrive for its removal. Confounded by the tragicalevent that had taken place, Leonard remained with his eyes fixed uponthe blood-stained pavement, until he was roused by an arm which gentlydrew him away, while the voice of the Earl of Rochester breathed in hisear, "This is a sad occurrence, Leonard; and yet it is most fortunatefor you, for it removes the only obstacle to your union with the LadyIsabella. You see how fleeting life is, and how easily we may bedeprived of it. I tried to reason Lord Argentine into calmness; butnothing would satisfy him except my blood; and there he lies, though notby my hand. Let his fate be a lesson to us, and teach us to live incharity with each other. I have wronged you--deeply wronged you; but Iwill make all the atonement in my power, and let me think I amforgiven. "

The blood rushed tumultuously to Leonard's heart as he listened to whatthe earl said, but overcoming his feelings of aversion by a powerfuleffort, he took the proffered hand. 

"I do forgive you my lord, " he said. 

"Those words have removed a heavy weight from my soul, " repliedRochester; "and if death should trip up my heels as suddenly as he didhis who perished on this spot, I shall be better prepared to meet him. And now let me advise you to repair to Newgate without delay, and seethe wretched man, and obtain the document from him. The fire will reachthe gaol ere long, and the prisoners must of necessity be removed. Amidthe confusion his escape might be easily accomplished. "

"Recollect, my lord, that the direful conflagration now prevailingwithout is owing to him, " replied Leonard. "I will never be accessory tohis escape. "

"And yet his death by the public executioner, " urged Rochester. "Thinkof its effect on his daughter. "

"Justice must take its course, " rejoined Leonard. "I would not aid himto escape if he were my own father. "

"In that case, nothing more is to be said, " replied Rochester. "But atall events, see him as quickly as you can. I would accompany you, but myduty detains me here. When you return from your errand you will find meat my post near the entrance of the churchyard in front of SaintMichael's le Quern; that is, if I am not beaten from it. Having seen thefather, your next business must be to seek out the daughter, and removeher from this dangerous neighbourhood. You have heard where she is to befound. "

Upon this they separated, Leonard and his companions quitting thecathedral by the great western entrance, and proceeding towardsPaul's-alley, and the earl betaking himself to the north-east corner ofthe churchyard. The former got as far as Ivy-lane, but found it whollyimpassable, in consequence of the goods and furniture with which it wasblocked up. They were, therefore, obliged to return to the precincts ofthe cathedral, where Blaize, who was greatly terrified by what he hadseen, expressed his determination of quitting them, and hurried back tothe sacred pile. Leonard and the farmer next essayed to get up AveMaria-lane; but, finding that also impassable, they made for Ludgate, and, after a long delay and severe struggle, got through the portal. TheOld Bailey was entirely filled with persons removing their goods; andthey were here informed, to their great dismay, that the conflagrationhad already reached Newgate Market, which was burning with the greatestfury, and was at that moment seizing upon the gaol. No one, however, inanswer to Leonard's inquiries, could tell him what had become of theprisoners. 

"I suppose they have left them to burn, " observed a bystander, who heardthe question with a malicious look; "and it is the best way of gettingrid of them. " Paying no attention to the remark, nor to the brutal laughaccompanying it, Leonard, assisted by Wingfield, fought his way throughthe crowd till he reached the prison. The flames were bursting throughits grated windows, and both wings, as well as the massive gateconnecting them, were on fire. Regardless of the risk he ran, Leonardforced his way to the lodge-door, where two turnkeys were standing, removing their goods. 

"What has become of the prisoners?" he asked. 

"The debtors are set free, " replied the turnkey addressed, "and all butone or two of the common felons are removed. "

"And where are those poor creatures?" cried Leonard, horror-stricken. 

"In the Stone Hold, " replied the turnkey. 

"And have you left them to perish there?" demanded Leonard. 

"We couldn't help it, " rejoined the turnkey. "It would have been riskingour lives to venture near them. One is a murderer, taken in the fact;and the other is quite as bad, for he set the city on fire; so its rightand fair he should perish by his own contrivance. "

"Where does the Stone Hold lie?" cried Leonard, in a tone that startledthe turnkey. "I must get these prisoners out. "

"You can't, I tell you, " rejoined the turnkey, doggedly. "They're burntto a cinder by this time. "

"Give me your keys, and show me the way to the cell, " cried Leonard, authoritatively. "I will at least attempt to save them. "

"Well, if you're determined to put an end to yourself, you may try, "replied the turnkey; "but I've warned you as to what you may expect. This way, " he added, opening a door, from which a thick volume of smokeissued; "if any of 'em's alive, you'll soon know by the cries. " And, asif in answer to his remark, a most terrific shriek at that moment burston their ears. 

"Here are the keys, " cried the turnkey, delivering them to Leonard. "Youare not going too?" he added, as Wingfield pushed past him. "A couple ofmadmen! I shouldn't wonder if they were incendiaries. "

Directed by the cries, Leonard pressed forward through the blinding andstifling smoke. After proceeding about twenty yards, he arrived at across passage where the smoke was not quite so dense, as it found anescape through a small grated aperture in the wall. And here a horriblesight was presented to him. At the further extremity of this passage wasa small cell, from which the cries he had heard issued. Not far from itthe stone roof had fallen in, and from the chasm thus caused the flameswere pouring into the passage. Regardless of the risk he ran, Leonarddashed forward, and reaching the cell, beheld Grant, still living, butin such a dreadful state, that it was evident his sufferings must soonbe ended. His hair and beard were singed close to his head and face, andhis flesh was blistered, blackened, and scorched to the bone. On seeingLeonard, he uttered a hoarse cry, and attempted to speak, but the wordsrattled in his throat. He then staggered forward, and, to Leonard'sinexpressible horror, thrust his arms through the bars of the cage, which were literally red-hot. Seeing he had something in one hand, though he could not unclose his fingers, Leonard took it from him, andthe wretched man fell backwards. At this moment a loud crack was heardin the wall behind. Several ponderous stones dropped from their places, admitting a volume of flame that filled the whole cell, and disclosinganother body on the floor, near which lay that of Grant. Horrified bythe spectacle, Leonard staggered off, and, catching Wingfield's arm, sought to retrace his steps. This was no easy matter, the smoke being sodense, that they could not see a foot before them, and was obliged tofeel their way along the wall. On arriving at the cross passage, Wingfield would fain have turned off to the right, but Leonard drew himforcibly in the opposite direction; and most fortunate was it that hedid so, or the worthy farmer would inevitably have perished. At lastthey reached the lodge, and sank down on a bench from exhaustion. 

"So, my masters, " observed the turnkey, with a grim smile, "you were notable to rescue them, I perceive?" But receiving no answer, he added, "Well, and what did you see?"

"A sight that would have moved even your stony heart to compassion, "returned Leonard, getting up and quitting the lodge. Followed byWingfield, and scarcely knowing where he was going, he forced his waythrough the crowd, and dashing down Snow-hill, did not stop till hereached Holborn Conduit, where, seizing a leathern bucket, he filled itwith water, and plunged his head into it. Refreshed by the immersion, henow glanced at the document committed to him by Grant. It was a piece ofparchment, and showed by its shrivelled and scorched appearance theagony which its late possessor must have endured, Leonard did not openit, but thrust it with a shudder into his doublet. 

Meditating on the strange and terrible events that had just occurred, Leonard's thoughts involuntarily wandered to the Lady Isabella, whoseimage appeared to him like a bright star shining on troubled waters, andfor the first time venturing to indulge in a hope that she might indeedbe his, he determined immediately to proceed in search of her. 

It was now high noon, but the mid-day sun was scarcely visible, or notvisible at all; as it struggled through the masses of yellow vapour itlooked red as blood. Bands of workmen were demolishing houses on thewestern side of Fleet Ditch, and casting the rubbish into the muddysluice before them, by which means it was confidently but vainly hopedthat the progress of the fire would be checked. Shaping their coursealong the opposite side of the ditch, and crossing to Fleet Bridge, Leonard and his companion passed through Salisbury-court to Whitefriars, and taking a boat, directed the waterman to land them at Puddle Dock. The river was still covered with craft of every description laden withgoods, and Baynard's Castle, an embattled stone structure of greatstrength and solidity, built at the beginning of the fifteenth centuryon the site of another castle as old as the Conquest, being now wrappedin flames from foundation to turret, offered a magnificent spectacle. From this point the four ascents leading to the cathedral, namely, Addle-hill, Saint Bennet's-hill, Saint Peter's-hill, and Lambert-hill, with all their throng of habitations, were burning--the black lines ofruined walls standing in bold relief against the white sheet of flame. Billows of fire rolled upwards every moment towards Saint Paul's, andthreatened it with destruction. 

Landing at the appointed place Leonard and his companion ascended SaintAndrew's-hill, and, proceeding along Carter-lane, soon gained theprecincts of the cathedral. Here the whole mass of habitations on thesummit of Saint Bennet's-hill extending from the eastern, end ofCarter-lane to Distaff-lane, was on fire, and the flames were dashed bythe fierce wind against the south-east corner of the cathedral. A largecrowd was collected at this point, and great efforts were made to savethe venerable pile, but Leonard saw that its destruction was inevitable. Forcing a way through the throng with his companion, they reached DoctorHodges's residence at the corner of Watling-street, and Leonard, withoutwaiting to knock, tried the door, which yielded to his touch. Thehabitation was empty, and from the various articles scattered about itwas evident its inmates must have fled with the greatest precipitation. Alarmed at this discovery, Leonard rushed forth with Wingfield, andsought to ascertain from the crowd without whither Doctor Hodges wasgone, but could learn nothing more than that he had departed with hiswhole household a few hours before. At last it occurred to him that hemight obtain some information from the Earl of Rochester, and he wasabout to cross to the other side of the churchyard, when he was arrestedby a simultaneous cry of horror from the assemblage. Looking upwards, for there he saw the general gaze directed, he perceived that thescaffolding around the roof and tower of the cathedral had kindled, andwas enveloping the whole upper part of the fabric in a network of fire. Flames were likewise bursting from the belfry, and from the loftypointed windows below it, flickering and playing round the hoarybuttresses, and disturbing the numerous jackdaws that built in theirtimeworn crevices, and now flew screaming forth. As Leonard gazed at thesummit of the tower, be discerned through the circling eddies of smokethat enveloped it the figure of Solomon Eagle standing on the top of thebattlements and waving his staff, and almost fancied he could hear hisvoice. After remaining in this perilous situation for some minutes, asif to raise anxiety for his safety to the highest pitch, the enthusiastsprang upon a portion of the scaffolding that was only partly consumed, and descended from pole to pole, regardless whether burning or not, withmarvellous swiftness, and apparently without injury. Alighting on theroof, he speeded to the eastern extremity of the fane, and therecommenced his exhortations to the crowd below. 

It now became evident also, from the strange roaring noise proceedingfrom the tower, that the flames were descending the spiral staircase, and forcing their way through some secret doors or passages to the roof. Determined to take one last survey of the interior of the cathedralbefore its destruction, which he now saw was inevitable, Leonardmotioned to Wingfield, and forcing his way through the crowd, which wasnow considerably thinned, entered the southern door. He had scarcelygained the middle of the transept when the door opened behind him, andtwo persons, whom, even in the brief glimpse he caught of them, he knewto be Chowles and Judith, darted towards the steps leading to SaintFaith's. They appeared to be carrying a large chest, but Leonard was toomuch interested in what was occurring to pay much attention to them. There were but few persons besides himself and his companion within thecathedral, and these few were chiefly booksellers' porters, who werehurrying out of Saint Faith's in the utmost trepidation. By-and-by, these were gone, and they were alone--alone within that vast structure, and at such a moment. Their situation, though perilous, was one thatawakened thrilling and sublime emotions. The cries of the multitude, coupled with the roaring of the conflagration, resounded from without, while the fierce glare of the flames lighted up the painted windows atthe head of the choir with unwonted splendour. Overhead was heard ahollow rumbling noise like that of distant thunder, which continued fora short time, while fluid streams of smoke crept through the mightyrafters of the roof, and gradually filled the whole interior of thefabric with vapour. Suddenly a tremendous cracking was heard, as if thewhole pile were tumbling in pieces. So appalling was this sound, thatLeonard and his companion would have fled, but they were completelytransfixed by terror. 

While they were in this state, the flames, which had long been burningin secret, burst through the roof at the other end of the choir, andinstantaneously spread over its whole expanse. At this juncture, a cryof wild exultation was heard in the great northern gallery, and lookingup, Leonard beheld Solomon Eagle, hurrying with lightning swiftnessaround it, and shouting in tones of exultation, "My words have come topass--it burns--it burns--and will be utterly consumed!"

The vociferations of the enthusiast were answered by a piercing cry frombelow, proceeding from Blaize, who at that moment rushed from theentrance of Saint Faith's. On seeing the porter, Leonard shouted to him, and the poor fellow hurried towards him. At this juncture, a strangehissing sound was heard, as if a heavy shower of rain were descendingupon the roof, and through the yawning gap over the choir there poured astream of molten lead of silvery brightness. Nothing can be conceivedmore beautiful than this shining yet terrible cascade, which descendedwith momentarily increasing fury, sparkling, flashing, hissing, andconsuming all before it. All the elaborately carved woodwork and stallsupon which it fell were presently in flames. Leonard and his companionsnow turned to fly, but they had scarcely moved a few paces when anotherfiery cascade burst through the roof near the great western entrance, for which they were making, flooding the aisles and plashing against themassive columns. At the same moment, too, a third stream began to fallover the northern transept, not far from where Blaize stood, and a fewdrops of the burning metal reaching him, caused him to utter the mostfearful outcries. Seriously alarmed, Leonard and Wingfield now rushed toone of the monuments in the northern aisle, and hastily clambering it, reached a window, which they burst open. Blaize followed them, but notwithout receiving a few accidental plashes from the fiery torrents, which elicited from him the most astounding yells. Having helped him toclimb the monument, Leonard pushed him through the window afterWingfield, and then cast his eye round the building before he himselfdescended. The sight was magnificent in the extreme. Prom the flamingroof three silvery cascades descended. The choir was in flame, and aglowing stream like lava was spreading over the floor, and slowlytrickling down the steps leading to the body of the church. Thetransepts and the greater part of the nave were similarly flooded. Abovethe roar of the flames and the hissing plash of the descending torrents, was heard the wild laughter of Solomon Eagle. Perceiving him in one ofthe arcades of the southern gallery, Leonard shouted to him to descend, and make good his escape while there was yet time, adding that in a fewmoments it would be too late. 

"I shall never quit it more, " rejoined the enthusiast, in a voice ofthunder, "but shall perish with the fire I have kindled. No monarch onearth ever lighted a nobler funeral pyre. "

And as Leonard passed through the window, he disappeared along thegallery. Breaking through the crowd collected round Wingfield andBlaize, and calling to them to follow him, Leonard made his way to thenorth-east of the churchyard, where he found a large assemblage ofpersons, in the midst of which were the king, the Duke of York, Rochester, Arlington, and many others. As Leonard advanced, Charlesdiscerned him amid the crowd, and motioned him to come forward. Apassage was then cleared, for him, through which Wingfield and Blaize, who kept close beside him, were permitted to pass. 

"I am glad to find no harm has happened to you, friend, " said Charles, as he approached. "Rochester informed me you were gone to Newgate, andas the gaol had been burnt down, I feared you might have met with thesame mishap. I now regret that I did not adopt your plan, but it may notbe yet too late. "

"It is not too late to save a portion of your city, sire, " repliedLeonard; "but, alas! how much is gone!"

"It is so, " replied the king, mournfully. 

Further conversation was here interrupted by the sudden breaking out ofthe fire from the magnificent rose window of the cathedral, the effectof which, being extraordinarily fine, attracted the monarch's attention. By this time Solomon Eagle had again ascended the roof, and making hisway to the eastern extremity, clasped the great stone cross thatterminated it with his left hand, while with his right he menaced theking and his party, uttering denunciations that were lost in theterrible roar prevailing around him. The flames now raged with afierceness wholly inconceivable, considering the material they had towork upon. The molten lead poured down in torrents, and not merelyflooded the whole interior of the fabric, but ran down in a wide andboiling stream almost as far as the Thames, consuming everything in itsway, and rendering the very pavements red-hot. Every stone, spout, andgutter in the sacred pile, of which there were some hundreds, added tothis fatal shower, and scattered destruction far and wide; nor will thisbe wondered at when it is considered that the quantity of lead thusmelted covered a space of no less than six acres. Having burned withincredible fury and fierceness for some time, the whole roof of thesacred structure fell in at once, and with a crash heard at an amazingdistance. After an instant's pause, the flames burst forth from everywindow in the fabric, producing such an intensity of heat, that thestone pinnacles, transom beams, and mullions split and cracked with asound like volleys of artillery, shivering and flying in everydirection. The whole interior of the pile was now one vast sheet offlame, which soared upwards, and consumed even the very stones. Not avestige of the reverend structure was left untouched--its bells--itsplate--its woodwork--its monuments--its mighty pillars--itsgalleries--its chapels--all, all were destroyed. The fire ragedthroughout all that night and the next day, till it had consumed all butthe mere shell, and rendered the venerable cathedral--"one of the mostancient pieces of piety in the Christian world"--to use the words ofEvelyn, a heap of ruin and ashes. 

VIII. 

HOW LEONARD RESCUED THE LADY ISABELLA. 

The course of events having been somewhat anticipated in the lastchapter, it will now be necessary to return to an earlier stage in thedestruction of the cathedral, namely, soon after the furious burstingforth of the flames from the great eastern windows. While Leonard, incommon with the rest of the assemblage, was gazing at this magnificentspectacle, he heard a loud cry of distress behind him, and turning atthe sound, beheld Doctor Hodges rush forth from an adjoining house, theupper part of which was on fire, almost in a state of distraction. Anelderly man and woman, and two or three female servants, all of whomwere crying as loud as himself, followed him. But their screams fell onindifferent ears, for the crowd had become by this time too muchaccustomed to such appeals to pay any particular attention to them. Leonard, however, instantly rushed towards the doctor, and anxiouslyinquired what was the matter; the latter was so bewildered that he didnot recognise the voice of the speaker, but gazing up at the house withan indescribable anguish, cried, "Merciful God! the flames have by thistime reached her room--she will be burned--horror!"

"Who will be burned?" cried Leonard, seizing his arm, and gazing at himwith a look of apprehension and anguish equal to his own--"Not the LadyIsabella?"

"Yes, Isabella, " replied Hodges, regarding the speaker, and for thefirst time perceiving by whom he was addressed. "Not a moment is to belost if you would save her from a terrible death. She was left in afainting state in one of the upper rooms by a female attendant, whodeserted her mistress to save herself. The staircase is on fire, or Imyself would have saved her. "

"A ladder! a ladder!" cried Leonard. 

"Here is one, " cried Wingfield, pointing to one propped against anadjoining house. And in another moment, by the combined efforts of thecrowd, the ladder was brought and placed against the burning building. 

"Which is the window?" cried Leonard. 

"That on the right, on the second floor, " replied Hodges. "GraciousHeaven! the flames are bursting from it. "

But Leonard's foot was now on the ladder, and rushing up withinconceivable swiftness, he plunged through the window regardless of theflame. All those who witnessed this daring deed, regarded hisdestruction as certain, and even Hodges gave him up for lost. But thenext moment he appeared at the window, bearing the fainting female formin his arms, and with extraordinary dexterity obtaining a firm footingand hold of the ladder, descended in safety. The shout that burst fromsuch part of the assemblage as had witnessed this achievement, and itssuccessful termination, attracted the king's attention, and he inquiredthe cause of the clamour. 

"I will ascertain it for your majesty, " replied Rochester, andproceeding to the group, he learnt, to his great satisfaction, what hadoccurred. Having gained this intelligence, he flew back to the king, andbriefly explained the situation of the parties. Doctor Hodges, itappeared, had just removed to the house in question, which belonged toone of his patients, as a temporary asylum, and the Lady Isabella hadaccompanied him. She was in the upper part of the house when the firebroke out, and was so much terrified that she swooned away, in whichcondition her attendant left her; nor was the latter so much to blame asmight appear, for the stairs were burning at the time, and a moment'sdelay would have endangered her own safety. 

"Fate, indeed, seems to have brought these young persons together, "replied Charles, as he listened to Rochester's recital, who took thisopportunity of acquainting him with Lord Argentine's dying injunctions, "and it would be a pity to separate them. "

"I am sure your majesty has no such intention, " said Rochester. 

"You will see, " rejoined the monarch. And, as he spoke, he turned hishorse's head, and moved towards the spot where Leonard was kneelingbeside Isabella, and supporting her. Some restoratives having beenapplied by Doctor Hodges, she had regained her sensibility, and wasmurmuring her thanks to her deliverer. 

"She has not lost her beauty, I perceive, " cried Charles, gazing at herwith admiration, and feeling something of his former passion revivewithin his breast. 

"Your majesty, I trust, will not mar their happiness, " said Rochester, noticing the monarch's libertine look with uneasiness. "Remember, youowe your life to that young man. "

"And I will pay the debt royally, " replied Charles; "I will give himpermission to marry her. "

"Your majesty's permission is scarcely needed, " muttered Rochester. 

"There you are wrong, my lord, " replied the king. "She is now my ward, and I can dispose of her in marriage as I please; nor will I so disposeof her except to her equal in rank. "

"I discern your majesty's gracious intentions, " replied Rochester, gratefully inclining his head. 

"I almost forget my deliverer's name, " whispered Charles, with a smile, "but it is of no consequence, since he will so speedily change it. "

"His name is Leonard Holt, " replied Rochester, in the same tone. 

"Ah!--true, " returned the king. "What ho! good Master Leonard Holt, " headded, addressing the young man, "commit the Lady Isabella Argentine tothe care of our worthy friend Doctor Hodges for a moment, and stand upbefore me. " His injunctions being complied with, he continued, "The LadyIsabella Argentine and I owe our lives to you, and we must both evinceour gratitude--she by devoting that life, which, if I am notmisinformed, she will be right willing to do, to you, and I by puttingyou in a position to unite yourself to her. The title of Argentine hasbeen this day extinguished by most unhappy circumstances; I thereforeconfer the title on you, and here in this presence create you BaronArgentine, of Argentine, in Staffordshire. Your patent shall be made outwith all convenient despatch, and with it you shall receive the hand ofthe sole representative of that ancient and noble house. "

"Your majesty overwhelms me, " replied Leonard, falling on his knee andpressing the king's hand, which was kindly extended towards him, to hislips. "I can scarcely persuade myself I am not in a dream. "

"You will soon awaken to the sense of the joyful reality, " returned theking. "Have I not now discharged my debt?" he added to Rochester. 

"Right royally, indeed, my liege, " replied the earl, in a tone ofunaffected emotion. "My lord, " he added, grasping Leonard's hand, "Isincerely congratulate you on your newly-acquired dignities, nor less inthe happiness that awaits you there. "

"If I do not answer you fittingly, my lord, " replied the new-made peer, "it is not because I do not feel your kindness. But my brain reels. PrayHeaven my senses may not desert me. "

"You must not forget the document you obtained this morning, my lord, "replied Rochester, endeavouring to divert his thoughts into a newchannel. "The proper moment for consulting it may have arrived. "

Lord Argentine, for we shall henceforth give him his title, thrust hishand into his doublet, and drew forth the parchment. He opened it, andendeavoured to read it, but a mist swam before his eyes. 

"Let me look at it, " said Rochester, taking it from him. "It is a deedof gift, " he said, after glancing at it for a moment, "from the lateLord Argentine--I mean the elder baron--of a large estate in Yorkshire, which he possessed in right of his wife, to you, my lord, here describedas Leonard Holt, provided you shall marry the Lady Isabella Argentine. Another piece of good fortune. Again and again, I congratulate you. "

"And now, " said Charles, "other and less pleasing matters claim ourattention. Let the Lady Isabella be removed, under the charge of DoctorHodges, to Whitehall, where apartments shall be provided for her atonce, together with fitting attendants, and where she can remain tillthis terrible conflagration is over which, I trust, soon will be, when Iwill no longer delay her happiness, but give her away in person. Chiffinch, " he added to the chief page, "see all this is carried intoeffect. "

"I will, my liege, and right willingly, " replied Chiffinch. 

"I would send you with her, my lord, " pursued Charles to Argentine, "butI have other duties for you to fulfil. The plan you proposed ofdemolishing the houses with gunpowder shall be immediately put intooperation, under your own superintendence. "

A chair was now brought, and the Lady Isabella, after a tender partingwith her lover, being placed within it, she was thus transported, underthe charge of Hodges and Chiffinch, to Whitehall, where she arrived insafety, though not without having sustained some hindrance andinconvenience. 

She had not been gone many minutes, when the conflagration of thecathedral assumed its most terrific character; the whole of the mightyroof falling in, and the flames soaring upwards, as before related. Upto this time, Solomon Eagle had maintained his position at the easternend of the roof, and still grasped the stone cross. His situation nowattracted universal attention, for it was evident he must speedilyperish. 

"Poor wretch!" exclaimed the king, shuddering, "I fear there is no wayof saving him. "

"None, whatever my liege, " replied Rochester, "nor do I believe he wouldconsent to it if there were. But he is again menacing your majesty. "

As Rochester spoke, Solomon Eagle shook his arm menacingly at the royalparty, raising it aloft, as if invoking the vengeance of Heaven. He thenknelt down upon the sloping ridge of the roof, as if in prayer, and hisfigure, thus seen relieved against the mighty sheet of flame, might havebeen taken for an image of Saint John the Baptist carved in stone. Notan eye in the vast crowd below but was fixed on him. In a few moments herose again, and tossing his arms aloft, and shrieking, in a voicedistinctly heard above the awful roar around him, the single word"_Resurgam!_" flung himself headlong into the flaming abyss. Asimultaneous cry of horror rose from the whole assemblage on beholdingthis desperate action. 

"The last exclamation of the poor wretch may apply to the cathedral, aswell as to himself, " remarked the monarch, to a middle-aged personage, with a pleasing and highly intellectual countenance, standing near him:"for the old building shall rise again, like a phoenix from its fires, with renewed beauty, and under your superintendence, Doctor ChristopherWren. "

The great architect bowed. "I cannot hope to erect such anotherstructure, " he said, modestly; "but I will endeavour to design anedifice that shall not disgrace your majesty's city. "

"You must build me another city at the same time, Doctor Wren, " sighedthe king. "Ah!" he added, "is not that Mr. Lilly, the almanac-maker, whom I see among the crowd?"

"It is, " replied Rochester. 

"Bid him come to me, " replied the king. And the order being obeyed, hesaid to the astrologer, "Well, Mr. Lilly, your second prediction hascome to pass. We have had the Plague, and now we have the Fire. You maythank my clemency that I do not order you to be cast into the flames, like the poor wretch who has just perished before our eyes, as a wizardand professor of the black art. How did you obtain information of thesefatal events?"

"By a careful study of the heavenly bodies, sire, " replied Lilly, "andby long and patient calculations, which, if your majesty or any of yourattendants had had leisure or inclination to make, would have affordedyou the same information. _I_ make no pretence to the gift of prophecy, but this calamity was predicted in the last century. "

"Indeed! by whom?" asked the king. 

"By Michael Nostradamus, " replied Lilly; "his prediction runs thus:--

 'La sang du juste à Londres fera faute, Bruslez par feu, le vingt et trois, les Six; La Dame antique cherra de place haute, De même secte plusieurs seront occis. '[1]

And thus I venture to explain it. The 'blood of the just' refers to theimpious and execrable murder of your majesty's royal father of blessedmemory. 'Three-and-twenty and six' gives the exact year of the calamity;and it may likewise give us, as will be seen by computation hereafter, the amount of habitations to be destroyed. The 'Ancient Dame'undoubtedly refers to the venerable pile now burning before us, which, as it stands in the most eminent spot in the city, clearly 'falls fromits high place. ' The expression 'of the same sect' refers not to men, but churches, of which a large number, I grieve to say it, are alreadydestroyed. "

[Footnote 1:

 'The blood of the just shall be wanting in London, Burnt by fire of three-and-twenty, the Six; The ancient Dame shall fall from her high place, Of the same sect many shall be killed. ']

"The prophecy is a singular one, " remarked Charles, musingly "and youhave given it a plausible interpretation. " And for some moments heappeared lost in reflection. Suddenly rousing himself, he took forth histablets, and hastily tracing a few lines upon a leaf, tore it out, anddelivered it with his signet-ring to Lord Argentine. "Take this, mylord, " he said, "to Lord Craven. You will find him at his post inTower-street. A band of my attendants shall go with you. Embark at thenearest stairs you can--those at Blackfriars I should conceive the mostaccessible. Bid the men row for their lives. As soon as you join LordCraven, commence operations. The Tower must be preserved at all hazards. Mark me!--at all hazards. "

"I understand your majesty, " replied Argentine--"your commands shall beimplicitly obeyed. And if the conflagration has not gone too far, I willanswer with my life that I preserve the fortress. " And he departed onhis mission. 

IX. 

WHAT BEFEL CHOWLES AND JUDITH IN THE VAULTS OF SAINT FAITH'S. 

Having now seen what occurred outside Saint Paul's, we shall proceed tothe vaults beneath it. Chowles and Judith, it has been mentioned, weredescried by Leonard, just before the outbreak of the fire, stealing intoSaint Faith's, and carrying a heavy chest between them. This chestcontained some of the altar-plate, which they had pillaged from theConvocation House. As they traversed the aisles of Saint Faith's, whichwere now filled with books and paper, they could distinctly hear theraging of the fire without, and Judith, who was far less intimidatedthan her companion, observed, "Let it roar on. It cannot injure us. "

"I am not so sure of that, " replied Chowles, doubtfully, "I wish we hadtaken our hoards elsewhere. "

"There is no use in wishing that now, " rejoined Judith. "And it wouldhave been wholly impossible to get them out of the city. But have nofear. The fire, I tell you, cannot reach us. It could as soon burn intothe solid earth as into this place. "

"It comforts me to hear you say so, " replied Chowles. "And when I thinkof those mighty stone floors above us, I feel we are quite safe. No, no, it can never make its way through them. "

Thus discoursing, they reached the charnel at the further end of thechurch, where Chowles struck a light, and producing a flask of strongwaters, took a copious draught himself and handed the flask to Judith, who imitated his example. Their courage being thus stimulated, theyopened the chest, and Chowles was so enraptured with its glitteringcontents that he commenced capering round the vault. Recalled toquietude by a stern reproof from Judith, he opened a secret door in thewall, and pushed the chest into a narrow passage beyond it. Fearful ofbeing discovered in their retreat, they took a basket of provisions andliquor with them, and then closed the door. For some time, theyproceeded along the passage, pushing the chest before them, until theycame to a descent of a few steps, which brought them to a large vault, half-filled with bags of gold, chests of plate, caskets, and otherplunder. At the further end of this vault was a strong wooden door. Pushing the chest into the middle of the chamber, Chowles seated himselfupon it, and opening the basket of provisions, took out the bottle ofspirits, and again had recourse to it. 

"How comfortable and secure we feel in this quiet place, " he said;"while all above us is burning. I declare I feel quite merry, ha! ha!"And he forced a harsh and discordant laugh. 

"Give me the bottle, " rejoined Judith, sternly, "and don't grin like adeath's head. I don't like to see the frightful face you make. "

"It's the first time you ever thought my face frightful, " repliedChowles, "and I begin to think you are afraid. "

"Afraid!" echoed Judith, forcing a derisive laugh in her turn;"afraid--of what?"

"Nay, I don't know, " replied Chowles; "only I feel a littleuncomfortable. What if we should not be able to breathe here? The veryidea gives me a tightness across the chest. "

"Silence!" cried Judith, with a fierceness that effectually insuredobedience to her command. 

Chowles again had recourse to the bottle, and deriving a false couragefrom it, as before, commenced skipping about the chamber in his usualfantastical manner. Judith, did not attempt to check him, but remainedwith her chin resting upon her hand gazing at him. 

"Do you remember the Dance of Death, Judith?" he cried, executing someof the wildest flourishes he had then performed, "and how I surprisedthe Earl of Rochester and his crew?"

"I do, " replied Judith, sternly, "and I hope we may not soon have toperform that dance together in reality. "

"It was a merry night, " rejoined Chowles, who did not hear what shesaid, "a right merry night--and so to-night shall be, in spite of whatis occurring overhead. Ha! ha!" And he took another long pull at theflask. "I breathe freely now. " And he continued his wild flourishesuntil he was completely exhausted. He then sat down by Judith, and wouldhave twined his bony arms round her neck, but she roughly repulsed him. 

With a growl of displeasure, he then proceeded to open and examine thevarious bags, chests, and caskets piled upon the floor, and the sight oftheir contents so excited Judith, that shaking off her misgivings, shejoined him, and they continued opening case after case, glutting theirgreedy eyes, until Chowles became aware that the vault was filled withsmoke. As soon as he perceived this, he started to his feet in terror. 

"We are lost--we shall be suffocated!" he cried! Judith likewise arose, and her looks showed that she shared in his apprehensions. 

"We must not stay here, " cried Chowles; "and yet, " he added, with anagonised look at the rich store before him, "the treasure! thetreasure!"

"Ay, let us, at least, take something with us, " rejoined Judith, snatching up two or three of the most valuable caskets. 

While Chowles gazed at the heap before him, hesitating what to select, the smoke grew so dense around them, that Judith seized his arm, anddragged him away. "I come--I come!" he cried, snatching up a bag ofgold. 

They then threaded the narrow passage, Judith leading the way andbearing the light. The smoke grew thicker and thicker as they advanced;but regardless of this, they hurried to the secret door leading to thecharnel. Judith touched the spring, but as she did so, a sheet of flameburst in and drove her back. Chowles dashed passed her, and with greatpresence of mind shut the door, excluding the flame. They then hastilyretraced their steps, feeling that not a moment was to be lost if theywould escape. The air in the vault, thickened by the smoke, had becomeso hot that they could scarcely breathe; added to which, to increasetheir terror, they heard the most awful cracking of the walls overhead, as if the whole fabric were breaking asunder to its foundation. 

"The cathedral is tumbling upon us! We shall be buried alive!" exclaimedChowles, as he listened with indescribable terror to the noise overhead!

"I owe my death to you, wretch!" cried Judith, fiercely. "You persuadedme to come hither. "

"I!" cried Chowles. "It is a lie! You were the person who proposed it. But for you I should have left our hoards here, and come for them afterthe fire was over. "

"It is you who lie!" returned Judith, with increased fury, "that was myproposal. "

"Hold your tongue, you she-devil, " cried Chowles, "it is you who havebrought me into this strait--and if you do not cease taunting me, I willsilence you for ever. "

"Coward and fool!" cried Judith, "I will at least have the satisfactionof seeing you die before me. "

And as she spoke, she rushed towards him, and a desperate strugglecommenced. And thus while the walls were cracking overhead, threateningthem with instant destruction, the two wretches continued their strife, uttering the most horrible blasphemies and execrations. Judith, beingthe stronger of the two, had the advantage, and she had seized heropponent by the throat with the intention of strangling him, when a mostterrific crash was heard causing her to loose her gripe. The airinstantly became as hot as the breath of a furnace, and both started totheir feet. "What has happened?" gasped Chowles. 

"I know not, " replied Judith, "and I dare not look down the passage. "

"Then I will, " replied Chowles, and he advanced a few paces up it, andthen hastily returned, shrieking, "it is filled with boiling lead, andthe stream is flowing towards us. "

Scarcely able to credit the extent of the danger, Judith gazed down thepassage, and there beheld a glowing silvery stream trickling slowlyonwards. She saw too well, that if they could not effect their retreatinstantly, their fate was sealed. 

"The door of the vault!" she cried, pointing towards it, "where is thekey? where is the key?"

"I have not got it, " replied Chowles, distractedly, "I cannot tell whereto find it. "

"Then we are lost!" cried Judith, with a terrible execration. 

"Not so, " replied Chowles, snatching up a pickaxe, "if I cannot unlockthe door, I can break it open. "

With this, he commenced furiously striking against it, while Judith, whowas completely horror-stricken, and filled with the conviction that herlast moments were at hand, fell on her knees beside him, and gazing downthe passage, along which she could see the stream of molten lead, nownearly a foot in depth, gradually advancing, and hissing as it came, shrieked to Chowles to increase his exertions. He needed no incitementto do so, but nerved by fear, continued to deal blow after blow againstthe door, until at last he effected a small breach just above the lock. But this only showed him how vain were his hopes, for a stream of fireand smoke poured through the aperture. Notwithstanding this, hecontinued his exertions, Judith shrieking all the time, until the lockat last yielded. He then threw open the door, but finding the wholepassage involved in flame, was obliged to close it. Judith had nowrisen, and their looks at each other at this fearful moment wereterrible in the extreme. Retreating to either side of the cell, theyglared at each other like wild beasts. Suddenly, Judith casting her eyesto the entrance of the vault, uttered a yell of terror, that caused hercompanion to look in that direction, and he perceived that the stream ofmolten lead had gained it, and was descending the steps. He made a rushtowards the door at the same time with Judith, and another struggleensued, in which he succeeded in dashing her upon the floor. He againopened the door, but was again driven backwards by the terrific flame, and perceived that the fiery current had reached Judith, who waswrithing and shrieking in its embrace. Before Chowles could again stir, it was upon him. With a yell of anguish, he fell forward, and wasinstantly stifled in the glowing torrent, which in a short time floodedthe whole chamber, burying the two partners in iniquity, and the wholeof their ill-gotten gains, in its burning waves. 

X. 

CONCLUSION. 

Lord Argentine proceeded, as directed by the king, to the eastern end ofTower-street, where he found Lord Craven, and having delivered him theking's missive, and shown him the signet, they proceeded to the westernside of the Tower Dock, and having procured a sufficient number ofminers and engineers, together with a supply of powder from thefortress, commenced undermining the whole of the row of habitationscalled Tower-bank, on the edge of the dock, having first, it is scarcelynecessary to state, taken care to clear them of their inhabitants. Thepowder deposited, the trains were fired, and the buildings blown intothe air. At this time the whole of the western side of the Tower Moatwas covered with low wooden houses and sheds, and, mindful of the king'sinstructions, Lord Argentine suggested to Lord Craven that they shouldbe destroyed. The latter acquiescing, they proceeded to their task, andin a short time the whole of the buildings of whatever description, fromthe bulwark-gate to the city postern, at the north of the Tower, andnearly opposite the Bowyer Tower, were destroyed. Long before this wasaccomplished they were joined by the Duke of York, who lent his utmostassistance to the task, and when night came on, a clear space of atleast a hundred yards in depth, had been formed between the ancientfortress and the danger with which it was threatened. 

Meantime the conflagration continued to rage with unabated fury. Itburnt throughout the whole of Monday night, and having destroyed SaintPaul's, as before related, poured down Ludgate-hill, consuming all inits way, and, crossing Fleet Bridge, commenced its ravages upon thegreat thoroughfare adjoining it. On Tuesday an immense tract was onfire. All Fleet-street, as far as the Inner Temple, Ludgate-hill, andthe whole of the city eastwards, along the banks of the Thames, up tothe Tower Dock, where the devastation was checked by the vast gap ofhouses demolished, were in flames. From thence the boundary of the fireextended to the end of Mark-lane, Lime-street, and Leadenhall, thestrong walls of which resisted its fury. Ascending again by the Standardon Cornhill, Threadneedle-street, and Austin Friars, it embracedDrapers' Hall, and the whole mass of buildings to the west ofThrogmorton-street. It next proceeded to the then new buildings behindSaint Margaret's, Lothbury, and so on westward to the upper end ofCateaton-street, whence it spread to the second postern in London Wall, and destroying the ramparts and suburbs as far as Cripplegate, consumedLittle Wood-street, Mungwell-street, and the whole of the city wall onthe west as far as Aldersgate. Passing a little to the north of SaintSepulchre's, which it destroyed, it crossed Holborn Bridge, andascending Saint Andrew's-hill, passed the end of Shoe-lane, and so on tothe end of Fetter-lane. The whole of the buildings contained within thisboundary were now on fire, and burning with terrific fury. And so theycontinued till the middle of Wednesday, when the wind abating, and animmense quantity of houses being demolished according to LordArgentine's plan, the conflagration was got under; and though it brokeout in several places after that time, little mischief was done, and itmay be said to have ceased on the middle of that day. 

On Saturday morning in that week, soon after daybreak, a young man, plainly yet richly attired in the habiliments then worn by persons ofhigh rank, took his way over the smouldering heaps of rubbish, and alongthe ranks of ruined and blackened walls denoting the habitations thathad once constituted Fleet-street. It was with no little risk, and somedifficulty, that he could force his way, now clambering over heaps ofsmouldering ashes, now passing by some toppling wall, which fell with aterrific crash after he had just passed it--now creeping under animmense pile of blackened rafters; but he at length reached FleetBridge, where he paused to gaze at the scene of devastation around him. 

It was indeed a melancholy sight, and drew tears to his eyes. Theravages of the fire were almost inconceivable. Great beams were burnt tocharcoal--stones calcined, and as white as snow, and such walls andtowers as were left standing were so damaged that their instant fall wasto be expected. The very water in the wells and fountains was boiling, and even the muddy Fleet sent forth a hot steam. The fire still lingeredin the lower parts of many habitations, especially where wine, spirits, or inflammable goods had been kept; and these "voragos of subterraneancellars, " as Evelyn terms them, still emitted flames, together with aprodigious smoke and stench. Undismayed by the dangers of the path hehad to traverse, the young man ascended Ludgate-hill, still encounteringthe same devastation, and passing through the ruined gateway, the end ofwhich remained perfect, approached what had once been Saint Paul'sCathedral. Mounting a heap of rubbish at the end of Ludgate street, hegazed at the mighty ruin, which looked more like the remains of a citythan those of a single edifice. 

The solid walls and buttresses were split and rent asunder; enormousstones were splintered and calcined by the heat; and vast flakes havingscaled from off the pillars, gave them a hoary and almost ghostlyappearance. Its enormous extent was now for the first time clearly seen, and, strange to say it looked twice as large in ruins as when entire. The central tower was still standing, but chipped, broken, and calcined, like the rest of the structure, by the vehement heat of the flames. Partof the roof, in its fall, broke through the solid floor of the choir, which was of immense thickness, into Saint Faith's, and destroyed themagazine of books and paper deposited there by the booksellers. Theportico, erected by Inigo Jones, and which found so much favour inEvelyn's eyes, that he describes it as "comparable to any in Europe, "and particularly deplores its loss, shared the fate of the rest of thebuilding--the only part left uninjured being the architrave, theinscription on which was undefaced. 

Having satiated himself with this sad but striking prospect, the youngman, with some toil and trouble, crossed the churchyard, and gainedCheapside, where a yet more terrific scene of devastation than thatwhich he had previously witnessed burst upon him. On the right of LondonBridge, which he could discern through the chasms of the houses, andalmost to the Tower, were nothing but ruins, while a similar waste layon the left. Such was the terrible change that had been wrought in theaspect of the ruined city, that if the young man had not had some marksto guide him, he would not have known where he was. The tower and ruinedwalls of Saint Peter's Church pointed out to him the entrance toWood-street, and, entering it, he traversed it with considerabledifficulty--for the narrow thoroughfares were much fuller of rubbish, and much less freed from smoke and fiery vapour, than the wider--untilhe reached a part of it with which he had once been well acquainted. But, alas! how changed was that familiar spot. The house he sought was amere heap of ruins. While gazing at them, he heard a voice behind him, and turning, beheld Mr. Bloundel and his son Stephen, forcing their waythrough what had once been Maiden-lane. A warm greeting passed betweenthem, and Mr. Bloundel gazed for some time in silence upon the wreck ofhis dwelling. Tears forced themselves into his eyes, and his companionswere no less moved. As he turned to depart, he observed to the young manwith some severity:

"How is it, Leonard, that I see you in this gay apparel? Surely, thepresent is not a fitting season for such idle display. "

Lord Argentine, for such it was, now explained to the wonder-strickengrocer all that had occurred to him, adding that he had intended comingto him that very day, if he had not been thus anticipated, to give himthe present explanation. 

"And where are Farmer Wingfield and Blaize?" asked Mr. Bloundel. "Wehave been extremely uneasy at your prolonged absence. "

"They are both at the palace, " replied Lord Argentine, "and have bothbeen laid up with slight injuries received during the conflagration; butI believe--nay, I am sure--they will get out to-day. "

"That is well, " replied Mr. Bloundel; "and now let me congratulate you, Leonard--that is, my lord--how strange such a title sounds!--on your newdignity. 

"And accept my congratulations, too, my lord, " said Stephen. 

"Oh! do not style me thus, " said Argentine. "With you, at least, let mebe ever Leonard Holt. "

"You are still my old apprentice, I see, " cried the grocer, warmlygrasping his hand. 

"And such I shall ever continue in feeling, " returned the other, cordially returning the pressure. 

Three days after this, Lord Argentine was united to the LadyIsabella. --the king, as he had promised, giving away the bride. The Earlof Rochester was present, together with the grocer and his wife, and thewhole of their family. Another marriage also took place on the same daybetween Blaize and Patience. Both unions, it is satisfactory to be ableto state, were extremely happy, though it would be uncandid not tomention, that in the latter case, to use a homely but expressive phrase, "the grey mare proved the better horse. " Blaize, however, wasexceedingly content under his government. He settled at Willesden withhis wife, where they lived to a good old age, and where some of hisdescendants may still be found. 

Mr. Bloundel sustained only a trifling loss by the fire. Another housewas erected on the site of the old habitation, where he carried on hisbusiness as respectably and as profitably as before, until, in thecourse of nature, he was gathered to his fathers, and succeeded by hisson Stephen, leaving an unblemished character behind him as a legacy tohis family. Nor was it his only legacy, in a worldly sense, for his timehad not been misspent, and he had well-husbanded his money. All hisfamily turned out well, and were successful in the world. Stephen roseto the highest civic dignities, and the younger obtained greatdistinction. Their daughter Christiana became Lady Argentine, beingwedded to the eldest son of the baron and baroness. 

Mike Macascree, the piper, and Bell, found a happy asylum with the samenoble family. 

As to Lord and Lady Argentine, theirs was a life of uninterruptedhappiness. Devotedly attached to her lord, the Lady Isabella seemed onlyto live for him, and he well repaid her affection. By sedulouslycultivating his talents and powers, which were considerable, he wasenabled to reflect credit upon the high rank to which it had pleased agrateful sovereign to elevate him. He lived to see the new cathedralcompleted by Sir Christopher Wren, and often visited it with feelings ofadmiration, but never with the same sentiments of veneration and awethat he had experienced when, in times long gone by, he had repaired toOLD SAINT PAUL'S. 

THE END.