rdin, who had thrown himself from his horse. He was
now endeavouring to draw her, with as little violence as possible, from
the carriage. "I have sought for you through many lands; I have found
you at last, and we will never again part."

These expressions frightened Edda far more than any threats would have
done. There was a concentrated energy and determination in the way he
spoke them that made her feel that he would keep his word.

"Oh, spare me! spare me!" she exclaimed. "You are not a brigand; you do
not war with women. Let us go free, and hasten to the assistance of my
father. You expressed friendship for him. Prove it now."

"I will, Edda, I swear; but you cannot remain here. Any moment you may
be sacrificed. The shot are falling thickly around. It is hopeless to
expect help from any one but me."

At that moment Edda saw him change colour, and then she heard the sound
of a voice which she knew full well--"To the rescue! to the rescue!"
while Bob and Job shouted, "Down with the Mounseers; down with them!"

Edda saw Ronald coming. She struggled to free herself; while Alfonse,
having leapt on his horse, was attempting to lift her up on the saddle;
but he was not a good horseman, and it seemed doubtful whether he would
succeed.

While some of his followers were endeavouring to carry off Mrs
Armytage, in obedience to his orders, the others were facing about to
defend themselves against the approaching enemy. When the French saw
the small body of men led by Morton, those who had faced to meet them
boldly advanced. Morton dashed forward. His great object was to reach
Alfonse Gerardin. He saw nothing else, he thought of nothing else but
Edda Armytage in his power.

"Release her, or you die!" he shouted.

Truefitt and Doull meantime had each singled out a French seaman, and
with hearty good-will were attacking them with their cutlasses. So
fierce was their onslaught that they drove them back into the midst of
the _melee_, where Colonel Armytage's troopers were still holding their
own against their foes. The French were, however, pressing them very
hard. Alfonse looked round and saw that the way was open to him. In
another moment Ronald Morton would be at his side. He stooped down, and
throwing his arms round Edda, by a violent effort lifted her off the
ground and placed her on his saddle.

"Retreat, men!" he shouted, "Let alone the other lady."

He was galloping off, but Ronald digging his