I bear him this testimony with the most unfeigned
satisfaction; nor am I without pride when I look back upon my own
behaviour. For surely no two men were ever left in a position so
invidious and irritating.
As soon as I had done eating, we proceeded to inspect the lower
floor. Window by window we tried the different supports, now and
then making an inconsiderable change; and the strokes of the hammer
sounded with startling loudness through the house. I proposed, I
remember, to make loop-holes; but he told me they were already made
in the windows of the upper story. It was an anxious business this
inspection, and left me down-hearted. There were two doors and
five windows to protect, and, counting Clara, only four of us to
defend them against an unknown number of foes. I communicated my
doubts to Northmour, who assured me, with unmoved composure, that
he entirely shared them.
"Before morning," said he, "we shall all be butchered and buried in
Graden Floe. For me, that is written."
I could not help shuddering at the mention of the quicksand, but
reminded Northmour that our enemies had spared me in the wood.
"Do not flatter yourself," said he. "Then you were not in the same
boat with the old gentleman; now you are. It's the floe for all of
us, mark my words."
I trembled for Clara; and just then her dear voice was heard
calling us to come upstairs. Northmour showed me the way, and,
when he had reached the landing, knocked at the door of what used
to be called MY UNCLE'S BEDROOM, as the founder of the pavilion had
designed it especially for himself.
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