was to be rowed with muffled
oars to the spot, to lie hid in the shadow of the bridge till a signal
like the cry of the pee-wit was exchanged from the bridge, then approach
the stairs at the inner angle of the bridge where Giles and Ambrose
would meet her.

Giles's experience as a man-at-arms stood him in good stead. He
purchased a rope as he went home, also some iron ramps. He took a
survey of the arched gateway in the course of the afternoon, and
shutting himself into one of the work-sheds with Ambrose, he constructed
such a rope ladder as was used in scaling fortresses, especially when
seized at night by surprise. He beguiled the work by a long series of
anecdotes of adventures of the kind, of all of which Ambrose heard not
one word. The whole court, and especially Giles number three, were very
curious as to their occupation, but nothing was said even to Stephen,
for it was better, if Ambrose should be suspected, that he should be
wholly ignorant, but he had--they knew not how--gathered somewhat. Only
Ambrose was, at parting for the night, obliged to ask him for the key of
the gate.

"Brother," then he said, "what is this work I see? Dost think I can let
thee go into a danger I do not partake? I will share in this pious act
towards the man I have ever reverenced."

So at dead of night the three men stole out together, all in the
plainest leathern suits. The deed was done in the perfect stillness of
the sleeping City, and without mishap or mischance. Stephen's strong
hand held the ladder securely and aided to fix it to the ramps, and just
as the early dawn was touching the summit of Saint Paul's spire with a
promise of light, Giles stepped into the boat, and reverently placed his
burden within the opening of a velvet cushion that had been ripped up
and deprived of part of the stuffing, so as to conceal it effectually.
The brave Margaret Roper, the English Antigone, well knowing that all
depended on her self-control, refrained from aught that might shake it.
She only raised her face to Giles and murmured from dry lips, "Sir, God
must reward you!" And Aldonza, who sat beside her, held out her hand.

Ambrose was to go with them to the priest's house, where Mrs Roper was
forced to leave her treasure, since she durst not take it to Chelsea, as
the royal officers were already in possession, and the whole family were
to depart on the ensuing day. Stephen and Giles returned safely to
Cheapside.

CHAPTER T