""A voice, which she recognized as that of Hmmphrey Chetham called to her by name in a low tone, bidding her fear nothing, as he was come to set her free.

How have you  managed to reach this window? asked Viviana. By a rope ladder, he answered. I contrived in the darkness  to clamber upon the roof of the prison from the parapets of the bridge, and, after securing the ladder to a projection, dropped the other end into a boat, rowed by Guy Fawkes and concealed beneath the arches of the bridge.  If I can remove this bar so as to allow you to pass through the window, dare you descend the ladder?

No, replied Viviana, shuddering.  My brain reels at the mere idea.

Think of the fate you will escape, urged Chetham.

And what will become of Father Oldcorne? asked Viviana.

Where is he?

In the cell immediately beneath you, replied Chetham.

Can you not liberate him? she continued.

Assuredly, if he will risk the descent, answered Chetham, reluctantly.

Free him first, rejoined Viviana, and at all hazards I will accompany you.

The young merchant made no reply, but disappeared from the window... Viviana strained her gaze downwards; but it was too dark to allow her to see anything.  She, however, heard a noise like that occasioned by a file; and shortly afterwards a few muttered words informed her that the priest was passing through the window.  The cords of the ladder shook against the bars of her window,--and she held her breath for fear.  From this state of suspense she was relieved in a few minutes by Humphrey Chetham, who informed here that Oldcorne had descended in safety, and was in the boat with Guy Fawkes.

I will fulfill my promise, replied Viviana, trembling; but I fear my strength will fail me.

You had better find death below than tarry here, replied Humphrey Chetham, who as he spoke was rapidly filling through the iron bar.  IN a few minutes this impediment will be removed.

The young merchant worked hard, and in a short time the stout bar yielded to his efforts.

Now, then, he cried, springing into the room, you are free.

I dare not make the attempt, said Viviana; my strength utterly fails me.

Nay, then, he replied; I will take the risk upon myself. You must not remain here.

So saying, he caught her in his arms, and bore her through the window....-p.66.

The engravings, on steel, by George Cruikshank for Ainsworth's novel illustrate the style of the modern image of the plot quite well. Select your favorite scene from the table below.

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