"There seems to be only one man," said Dacres, in a whisper. "If there is only one, I'll engage to manage him. While I grapple, you run for your lives. Remember the bank."
"Oh yes; but oh, Sir, there may be more," said Mrs. Willoughby.
"I'll see," said Dacres, softly.
He went cautiously to the front window and looked out. By the increased light he could see quite plainly. No men were visible. From afar the noise of the strife came to his ears louder than ever, and he could see the flashes of the rifles.
Dacres stole back again from the window and went to the door. He stood and listened.
And now the footsteps came across the hall to the foot of the stairs. Dacres could see the figure of a solitary man, but it was dark in the hall, and he could not make him out.
He began to think that there was only one enemy to encounter.
The man below put his foot on the lowest stair.
Then he hesitated.
Dacres stood in the shadow of the other doorway, which was nearer to the head of the stairs, and prepared to spring as soon as the stranger should come within reach. But the stranger delayed still.