This they did, and in great order, silently marching in military time and step, without disturbing the sleeping inhabitants.
They all arrived before midnight, and were marshalled by Ned Warbeck himself.
When twelve o’clock tolled from old St. Paul’s the order to march was given, and by various routes, guided and commanded by Ned, Garnet, and Bob, they took up various positions within a stone’s throw of Death-wing’s stronghold and rendezvous near the river.
Having done this, and then cut off all hope of retreat for the Skeleton Crew, Ned Warbeck advanced with twenty youths, and examined all the strong points of Death-wing’s retreat.
“Who comes there?” asked one of the Skeleton Crew, who was on guard.
“Ned Warbeck and his merry men,” said Bob Bertram.
“Three cheers for Ned Warbeck, and death to the Skeleton Crew!” shouted the brave apprentice youths.
The three cheers were given with great heartiness, and these were sounds which startled Death-wing in his banquet-hall.
A moment before all was quietness, and silent as the grave.
But now commenced a scene that baffles all description.