“Do you perceive anything?” he asked.
“Yes,” replied Knevet, “there is a name. But the character is so small I cannot decipher it.”
“Let me look at it,” said Topcliffe. “This is most important,” he added, after gazing at it for a moment; “the words inscribed on it are, 'Viviana Radcliffe, Ordsall Hall' You may remember that this young lady was examined a short time ago, on suspicion of being connected with some Popish plot against the state, and committed to the Tower, whence she escaped in a very extraordinary manner. This cross, found upon the prisoner, proves her connexion with the present plot. Every effort must be used to discover her retreat.”
Another deep sigh involuntarily broke from the breast of Guy Fawkes.
“You hear how deeply interested he is in the matter,” observed Topcliffe, in a low tone. “This trinket will be of infinite service to us in future examinations, and may do more for us with this stubborn subject even than the rack itself.”
“You are right,” returned Knevet. “I will now convey him to Whitehall, and acquaint the Earl of Salisbury with his capture.”
“Do so,” replied Topcliffe. “I have a further duty to perform. Before morning I hope to net the whole of this wolfish pack.”
“Indeed!” exclaimed Knevet. “Have you any knowledge of the others?”
Topcliffe smiled significantly.
“Time will show,” he said. “But if you do not require me further, I will leave you.”