Lorand quickly utilized this opportunity to close the door, fasten the chain, and draw the bolt.
The next moment the robbers' vehement attack could be heard, as they fell upon the door with crowbars.
"Come, let us get away," said Lorand, taking Czipra's hand.
The girl faintly answered.
"Oh! I cannot walk. I am fainting."
"Are you wounded?" asked Lorand, alarmed. It was dark, he could not see.
The girl fell against the wall.
Lorand at once took her in his arms and carried her into his room.
The lamp was still burning: he had just finished his letters.
He laid the wounded girl upon his bed.