s heart felt
hungry and unsatisfied, and he begged leave to carry the volume to
his own chamber, that he might indulge himself in its study and in
pious meditation thereupon, preparatory to the exercises of the
Lord's day, so close at hand.

Ferrar made no objection, only remarking that he himself was going
out, and should not return until after compline, and asking Dalaber
to take care of the book and keep it safe till he should come and
claim it, for it was dangerous to leave such volumes where any
prying eyes might find them.

So now Dalaber was sitting in his own lodging, with the door locked
upon him, reading greedily from the open page, and drinking in, as
it were, refreshment and strength, when he was roused from his
reverie by the sound, first of voices, and then by a sharp rap upon
the panels of his door.

His heart gave a great throb, and then stood still. He sat mute and
motionless, giving no sign of his presence. Something seemed to
warn him that this visit, whatsoever it might be, boded him no
good. The knock was repeated more loudly. But he still gave no
answer, sitting very still, and listening with all his might. He
heard no more the sound of voices. Nobody spoke or called his name.
But after a very brief pause the knock was repeated a third time,
and with that fierce energy which bespoke some strong emotion; and
suddenly it came over Dalaber that perhaps it was some one who was
in trouble, or was in need of him or his help. Were not the
brethren likely to be brought into sudden peril or distress? Might
it not even be a friend come to warn him of approaching danger? At
least it seemed to him that he must open the door and inquire; and
so rapid was the passage of these thoughts that the reverberation
of the third summons had scarcely died away before he had turned
the key and flung open the door.

Then he started back in startled amazement.

"Master Garret!" he gasped.

"Shelter me, friend Anthony," gasped Garret, whose face was white
as paper, "for I am a man undone. They have captured me once. I
have escaped them. But they will have me again if I make me not
away with all speed."

Dalaber dragged him almost roughly within the room, and closed the
door with a bang, for he had seen on the staircase the eager face
of one of the college servants; and the young man, immediately upon
hearing Garret's words, had slipped downstairs--Dalaber guessed
only too well upon what errand.

"Alas! why have y