“But I have to see the King to-night. I have some important papers to deliver to him respecting the Papists,” replied Salisbury.
“Indeed!” exclaimed Catesby. “We must, at least, have those papers,” he observed, in a whisper, to Fawkes.
“That is a different affair,” replied Fawkes. “They may prove serviceable to us.”
“My lord,” observed Catesby, “by a strange chance you have fallen into the hands of Catholics. You will be pleased to deliver these papers to us.”
“Ah! villains, would you rob me?” cried the Earl. “You shall take my life sooner.”
“We will take both, if you resist,” replied Catesby, in a menacing tone.
“Nay, then,” returned Salisbury, attempting to draw his sword, “we will see who will obtain the mastery. We are equally matched. Come on; I fear you not.”
But the waterman who had rowed the Earl was not of equal courage with his employer, and refused to take part in the conflict.
“It will be useless to contend with us,” cried Catesby, relinquishing the oar to Fawkes, and springing forward. “I must have those papers," he added, seizing the Earl by the throat, “or I will throw you overboard.”
“I am mistaken in you,” returned Salisbury; “you are no common mariner.”