When it was accomplished he darted down stairs, with the fair one fainting in his arms, and mounted his horse.
A shrill cry he gave, which was recognised by all his followers, as he mounted his strong horse, and galloped away.
His band understood the manœuvre, and as quickly as they could, fought their way towards the entrance-hall, leaped upon their horses, and flew away like the wind, with wild shouts of triumph.
“Pursue! pursue!” shouted Ned, fierce with anger.
His advice was followed on the instant.
Horses were called for; but the terrified servants were loth to come forth from their hiding-places to answer the summons.
They had madly rushed to all manner of places for concealment.
Some had made their way to the top of the mansion, and there concealed themselves behind chimney-pots, and even in the deep rain gutters.
One or two had actually climbed up chimneys, and were almost smothered in soot.
“Anywhere! anywhere!” was the cry among them.