George felt a ponderous blow, which, aimed at the left shoulder, struck his left arm.
The collar of his coat was instantaneously grasped.
For a moment, George Delmé felt irresolute--then drew a pistol from his pocket and fired.
The hold was loosened--a man fell at his feet.
The pistol's flash revealed another figure, which diving into the corn--fled precipitately.
Let us turn to Sir Henry Delmé and to Thompson.
For some time after George's departure, they were busily engaged in preparing supper.
While they were thus occupied, they noticed that the Papal soldiers whispered much together--but this gave rise to no suspicion on their part.
One by one the soldiers strolled out, and the landlord betook himself to the kitchen.
The punch was duly made, and Sir Henry, leaving the room, paced thoughtfully in front of the inn.