--the clashing of swords. A desperate struggle was
going on close to us. The congregation sprang to their feet: those who
had weapons drew them. At that instant the door was burst open, and the
dead body of the man who kept it fell forward into the room. At the
entrance was seen a body of Spanish musketeers, with weapons pointed
ready to shoot down any who might oppose them. "Beloved brethren,
resistance is useless--it is sinful!" exclaimed the preacher, who, being
raised above the rest, had observed the strong body of men who guarded
the door. "We must yield to superior power. God will know how to
avenge His chosen ones."

However, in spite of the exhortations of the preacher, several of the
men, who were accompanied by their wives and daughters, attempted to
defend them from the rough hands of the soldiery.

"The heretics resist!--the heretics resist!" shouted the Spaniards.
"Fire! fire!"

At the fatal word the musketoons were levelled, and sent their deadly
missiles whizzing through the air. The hall was filled with smoke--
fearful shrieks and cries followed. The bullets had extinguished most
of the lights, increasing the gloom. During the wild confusion I led
Aveline to the secret door, close to which we were seated; it opened
with a spring, and before the smoke cleared away sufficiently for any of
the Spaniards to see us, we had passed through. Lifting her in my arms,
I bore her rapidly down the narrow stair. I heard footsteps above us;
they were those of friends who were endeavouring to escape by the same
way. We were in total darkness, but I knew my way. The door at the
bottom of the stair opened from within: I had some difficulty in
withdrawing the bolts, fearing to make a noise. By this time those who
were following had reached me; but I dared not speak to inquire who they
were. The door was at length opened, and again lifting Aveline up, I
bore her rapidly along the street. The rain had ceased, but the night
was unusually dark, and favoured our escape. I dared not stop to
ascertain who had escaped with us: I could only hope that they were our
friends. I hurried on. Aveline entreated that I would put her down, as
she felt fully able to accompany me on foot: I did so at length, and,
supporting her on my arm, we took our way towards our abode. The storm
had kept the citizens in their houses, so that we met no one; and even
the usual guards had been keeping under shelter. Had I not been wel