"
Content heard the request, which was uttered sufficiently in the manner of
an order, perfectly unmoved. Without betraying either hesitation or
concern, he disposed himself to comply. Drawing the light ladder through
the trap below, he placed it against the one above him, and ascending he
raised the door. He then returned to the floor beneath, making a quiet
gesture to imply that they who chose might mount. But the strangers
regarded each other with very visible doubts. Neither of the inferiors
seemed disposed to precede his chief, and the latter evidently hesitated
as to the order in which it was meet to make the necessary advance.
"Is there no other manner of mounting, but by this narrow ascent?" he
asked.
"None. Thou wilt find the ladder secure, and of no difficult height. It is
intended for the use of women and children."
"Ay," muttered the officer, "but your women and children are not called
upon to confront the devil in a human form. Fellows, are thy weapons in
serviceable condition? Here may be need of spirit, ere we get our--Hist!
by the Divine Right of our Gracious Master! there is truly one stirring
above.
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