ed he with a laugh, "I'll fetch my blade; for 'twould ill
befit a gallant in quest of beauty to go unarmed."

So saying, he disappeared, and presently returned attired in a heavy
mantle, and a long rapier girded to his side.

The moon was high, and its light, which whitened the gables of the
houses, diffused a bright glimmer below, sufficient to enable Fawkes
to proceed quickly upon his way. Frost had set in, and a keen wind
blew; so he was glad to hurry on at a goodly pace. As the streets were
quite deserted at this early hour of the morning, or haunted only by
those whose business--whether for good or evil--forced them out of
doors, he met no one and saw no lights. The man's mind was evidently
filled with pleasant thoughts, for ever and anon a smile would flit
across his face, as though he dwelt upon the surprised look of his
daughter when she would behold him. These agreeable anticipations,
which had taken the place for the moment of the sterner purposes which
had of late engrossed him, were only thrust out by something which
happened just then and brought him abruptly to himself.

It was the appearance of a woman, who suddenly issued from an alley a
score of yards in front of him, and with a quick glance over her
shoulder, disappeared down another turn in the road. The movements of
this apparition caused Fawkes to pause, when suddenly a second figure,
this time a man, came into view and hurried in the direction taken by
the girl. "By my hilt," whispered Fawkes, peering cautiously out of
the shadow in which he stood, "that rogue had a most suspicious air
about him; an honest man walks with more noise; but, by my soul! if
there is not a third!"

The object which had called forth the last remark was still another
figure, which came from the same quarter, and proceeded in the
direction taken by the first two. "What queer business is now afoot?"
Fawkes exclaimed, gazing after the retreating forms. "Mayhap ere long
a trusty blade will not be amiss. I can well afford a few moments to
see that all be fair."

So saying, and loosening his sword in its scabbard to make sure it was
free if suddenly needed, he swiftly passed in the direction taken by
the retreating figures. A few steps brought him to the head of the
street down which the three had disappeared. By the light of the moon
Fawkes distinctly saw the shadowy forms, and halting where he stood,
watched their movements.

The girl was well in advance; the second per