"It was taken from me by yon tall man who is disappearing through the gateway," replied the other, in great trepidation.
"Ha! he here!" exclaimed Demdike, regarding the dark figure with a look of despair. "It is gone from me for ever!"
"Ay, for ever!" echoed the abbot, solemnly.
"But revenge is still left me—revenge!" cried Demdike, with an infuriated gesture.
"Then glut thyself with it speedily," replied the abbot; "for thy time here is short."
"I care not if it be," replied Demdike; "I shall live long enough if I survive thee."
CHAPTER X.—THE HOLEHOUSES.
At this moment the blast of a trumpet resounded from the gateway, and the Earl of Derby, with the sheriff on his right hand, and Assheton on the left, and mounted on a richly caparisoned charger, rode forth. He was preceded by four javelin-men, and followed by two heralds in their tabards.
To doleful tolling of bells—to solemn music—to plaintive hymn chanted by monks—to roll of muffled drum at intervals—the sad cortège set forth. Loud cries from the bystanders marked its departure, and some of them followed it, but many turned away, unable to endure the sight of horror about to ensue. Amongst those who went on was Hal o' Nabs, but he took care to keep out of the way of the guard, though he was little likely to be recognised, owing to his disguise.