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diff --git a/44523-0.txt b/44523-0.txt index 50c07c8..a28ed66 100644 --- a/44523-0.txt +++ b/44523-0.txt @@ -1,37 +1,4 @@ -The Project Gutenberg EBook of Jack Sheppard, Vol. III (of III), by -W. Harrison Ainsworth - -This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with -almost no restrictions whatsoever. You may copy it, give it away or -re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included -with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org - - -Title: Jack Sheppard, Vol. III (of III) - A Romance - -Author: W. Harrison Ainsworth - -Illustrator: George Cruikshank - -Release Date: December 26, 2013 [EBook #44523] -Last Updated: February 28, 2018 - -Language: English - -Character set encoding: UTF-8 - -*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK JACK SHEPPARD, VOL. III (OF III) *** - - - - -Produced by David Widger - - - - - +*** START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK 44523 *** JACK SHEPPARD @@ -6501,358 +6468,4 @@ THE END. 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Harrison Ainsworth </title> @@ -38,45 +39,7 @@ Jack Sheppard, Vol III, by W. Harrison Ainsworth </style> </head> <body> - - -<pre> - -The Project Gutenberg EBook of Jack Sheppard, Vol. III (of III), by -W. Harrison Ainsworth - -This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with -almost no restrictions whatsoever. You may copy it, give it away or -re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included -with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org - - -Title: Jack Sheppard, Vol. III (of III) -A Romance - -Author: W. Harrison Ainsworth - -Illustrator: George Cruikshank - -Release Date: December 26, 2013 [EBook #44523] -Last Updated: February 28, 2018 - -Language: English - -Character set encoding: UTF-8 - -*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK JACK SHEPPARD, VOL. III (OF III) *** - - - - -Produced by David Widger - - - - - -</pre> +<div>*** START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK 44523 ***</div> <div style="height: 8em;"> <br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /> @@ -8079,379 +8042,6 @@ THE END. <br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /> </div> - - - - - - -<pre> - - - - - -End of the Project Gutenberg EBook of Jack Sheppard, Vol. III (of III), by -W. Harrison Ainsworth - -*** END OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK JACK SHEPPARD, VOL. III (OF III) *** - -***** This file should be named 44523-h.htm or 44523-h.zip ***** -This and all associated files of various formats will be found in: -http://www.gutenberg.org/4/4/5/2/44523/ - -Produced by David Widger - -Updated editions will replace the previous one--the old editions -will be renamed. - -Creating the works from public domain print editions means that no -one owns a United States copyright in these works, so the Foundation -(and you!) can copy and distribute it in the United States without -permission and without paying copyright royalties. Special rules, -set forth in the General Terms of Use part of this license, apply to -copying and distributing Project Gutenberg-tm electronic works to -protect the PROJECT GUTENBERG-tm concept and trademark. Project -Gutenberg is a registered trademark, and may not be used if you -charge for the eBooks, unless you receive specific permission. 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-Jack Sheppard, Vol III, by W. Harrison Ainsworth
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-The Project Gutenberg EBook of Jack Sheppard, Vol. III (of III), by
-W. Harrison Ainsworth
-
-This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with
-almost no restrictions whatsoever. You may copy it, give it away or
-re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included
-with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org
-
-
-Title: Jack Sheppard, Vol. III (of III)
-A Romance
-
-Author: W. Harrison Ainsworth
-
-Illustrator: George Cruikshank
-
-Release Date: December 26, 2013 [EBook #44523]
-Last Updated: February 28, 2018
-
-Language: English
-
-Character set encoding: UTF-8
-
-*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK JACK SHEPPARD, VOL. III (OF III) ***
-
-
-
-
-Produced by David Widger
-
-
-
-
-
-</pre>
-
-<div style="height: 8em;">
-<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />
-</div>
-<h1>
-JACK SHEPPARD
-</h1>
-<h3>
-VOLUME III (of III)
-</h3>
-<h2>
-A Romance
-</h2>
-<p>
-<br />
-</p>
-<h2>
-By W. Harrison Ainsworth
-</h2>
-<h4>
-1839
-</h4>
-<div class="middle">
-<pre xml:space="preserve">
-
-<i>“Upon my word, friend,” said I, “you have almost made me
-long to try what a robber I should make.” “There is a great
-art in it, if you did,” quoth he. “Ah! but,” said I,
-“there's a great deal in being hanged.”</i>
-
-<i>Life and Actions of Guzman d'Alfarache.</i>
-</pre>
-</div>
-<p>
-<br /><br />
-</p>
-<hr />
-<p>
-<a name="linkimage-0001" id="linkimage-0001"> </a>
-</p>
-<div class="fig" style="width:35%;">
-<img src="images/009s.jpg" alt="009s " width="100%" /><br />
-</div>
-<h4>
-<a href="images/009.jpg"><i>Original Size</i></a> -- <a
-href="images/009m.jpg"><i>Medium-Size</i></a>
-</h4>
-<div class="fig" style="width:80%;">
-<img src="images/010m.jpg" alt="010m" width="100%" /><br />
-</div>
-<p>
-<br /><br />
-</p>
-<hr />
-<p>
-<br /><br />
-</p>
-<p>
-<b>CONTENTS</b>
-</p>
-<p class="toc">
-<a href="#link2H_ILL"> ILLUSTRATIONS: </a>
-</p>
-<p>
-<br />
-</p>
-<p class="toc">
-<a href="#link2HCH0001"> CHAPTER XI. DOLLIS HILL REVISITED. </a>
-</p>
-<p class="toc">
-<a href="#link2HCH0002"> CHAPTER XII. THE WELL HOLE. </a>
-</p>
-<p class="toc">
-<a href="#link2HCH0003"> CHAPTER XIII. THE SUPPER AT MR. KNEEBONE'S. </a>
-</p>
-<p class="toc">
-<a href="#link2HCH0004"> CHAPTER XIV. HOW JACK SHEPPARD WAS AGAIN
-CAPTURED. </a>
-</p>
-<p class="toc">
-<a href="#link2HCH0005"> CHAPTER XV. HOW BLUESKIN UNDERWENT THE PEINE
-FORTE ET DURE. </a>
-</p>
-<p class="toc">
-<a href="#link2HCH0006"> CHAPTER XVI. HOW JACK SHEPPARD'S PORTRAIT WAS
-PAINTED. </a>
-</p>
-<p class="toc">
-<a href="#link2HCH0007"> CHAPTER XVII. THE IRON BAR. </a>
-</p>
-<p class="toc">
-<a href="#link2HCH0008"> CHAPTER XVIII. THE RED ROOM. </a>
-</p>
-<p class="toc">
-<a href="#link2HCH0009"> CHAPTER XIX. THE CHAPEL. </a>
-</p>
-<p class="toc">
-<a href="#link2HCH0010"> CHAPTER XX. THE LEADS. </a>
-</p>
-<p class="toc">
-<a href="#link2HCH0011"> CHAPTER XXI. WHAT BEFELL JACK SHEPPARD IN THE
-TURNER'S HOUSE. </a>
-</p>
-<p class="toc">
-<a href="#link2HCH0012"> CHAPTER XXII. FAST AND LOOSE. </a>
-</p>
-<p class="toc">
-<a href="#link2HCH0013"> CHAPTER XXIII. THE LAST MEETING BETWEEN JACK
-SHEPPARD AND HIS MOTHER. </a>
-</p>
-<p class="toc">
-<a href="#link2HCH0014"> CHAPTER XXIV. THE PURSUIT. </a>
-</p>
-<p class="toc">
-<a href="#link2HCH0015"> CHAPTER XXV. HOW JACK SHEPPARD GOT RID OF HIS
-IRONS. </a>
-</p>
-<p class="toc">
-<a href="#link2HCH0016"> CHAPTER XXVI. HOW JACK SHEPPARD ATTENDED HIS
-MOTHER'S FUNERAL. </a>
-</p>
-<p class="toc">
-<a href="#link2HCH0017"> CHAPTER XXVII. HOW JACK SHEPPARD WAS BROUGHT BACK
-TO NEWGATE. </a>
-</p>
-<p class="toc">
-<a href="#link2HCH0018"> CHAPTER XXVIII. WHAT HAPPENED AT DOLLIS HILL.
-</a>
-</p>
-<p class="toc">
-<a href="#link2HCH0019"> CHAPTER XXIX. HOW JACK SHEPPARD WAS TAKEN TO
-WESTMINSTER HALL. </a>
-</p>
-<p class="toc">
-<a href="#link2HCH0020"> CHAPTER XXX. HOW JONATHAN WILD'S HOUSE WAS BURNT
-DOWN. </a>
-</p>
-<p class="toc">
-<a href="#link2HCH0021"> CHAPTER XXXI. THE PROCESSION TO TYBURN. </a>
-</p>
-<p class="toc">
-<a href="#link2HCH0022"> CHAPTER XXXII. THE CLOSING SCENE. </a>
-</p>
-<p>
-<br /><br />
-</p>
-<hr />
-<p>
-<a name="link2H_ILL" id="link2H_ILL"> </a>
-</p>
-<p>
-<b>List of Illustrations</b>
-</p>
-<p class="toc">
-<a href="#linkimage-0001"> Frontispiece </a>
-</p>
-<p class="toc">
-<a href="#linkimage-0003"> Jonathan Wild throwing Sir Rowland Trenchard
-down the Well </a>
-</p>
-<p class="toc">
-<a href="#linkimage-0004"> Jack Sheppard tricking Shotbolt the Gaoler </a>
-</p>
-<p class="toc">
-<a href="#linkimage-0005"> The Escape, No. I. </a>
-</p>
-<p class="toc">
-<a href="#linkimage-0006"> The Escape, No. II </a>
-</p>
-<p class="toc">
-<a href="#linkimage-0007"> The Escape, No. III </a>
-</p>
-<p class="toc">
-<a href="#linkimage-0008"> Jonathan Wild seizing Jack Sheppard at his
-Mother's Grave </a>
-</p>
-<p class="toc">
-<a href="#linkimage-0009"> Jack Sheppard's Irons knocked off in Newgate
-</a>
-</p>
-<p class="toc">
-<a href="#linkimage-0010"> The Procession from Newgate to Tyburn </a>
-</p>
-<p class="toc">
-<a href="#linkimage-0011"> The Last Scene </a>
-</p>
-<p>
-<br /><br />
-</p>
-<hr />
-<p>
-<a name="link2HCH0001" id="link2HCH0001"> </a>
-</p>
-<div style="height: 4em;">
-<br /><br /><br /><br />
-</div>
-<h2>
-CHAPTER XI. DOLLIS HILL REVISITED.
-</h2>
-<p class="pfirst"><span class="dropcap" style="font-size: 4.00em">A</span>bout an hour after the occurrences at Newgate, the door of the small
-back-parlour already described at Dollis Hill was opened by Winifred, who,
-gliding noiselessly across the room, approached a couch, on which was
-extended a sleeping female, and, gazing anxiously at her pale careworn
-countenance, murmured,—“Heaven be praised! she still slumbers—slumbers
-peacefully. The opiate has done its duty. Poor thing! how beautiful she
-looks! but how like death!”
- </p>
-<p>
-Deathlike, indeed, was the repose of the sleeper,—deathlike and
-deep. Its very calmness was frightful. Her lips were apart, but no breath
-seemed to issue from them; and, but for a slight—very slight
-palpitation of the bosom, the vital principle might be supposed to be
-extinct. This lifeless appearance was heightened by the extreme sharpness
-of her features—especially the nose and chin,—and by the
-emaciation of her limbs, which was painfully distinct through her drapery.
-Her attenuated arms were crossed upon her breast; and her black brows and
-eyelashes contrasted fearfully with the livid whiteness of her skin. A few
-short, dark locks, escaping from beneath her head-dress, showed that her
-hair had been removed, and had only been recently allowed to grow again.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Poor Mrs. Sheppard!” sighed Winifred, as she contemplated the beautiful
-wreck before her,—“Poor Mrs. Sheppard! when I see her thus, and
-think of all she has endured, of all she may yet have to endure, I could
-almost pray for her release from trouble. I dare not reflect upon the
-effect that her son's fate,—if the efforts to save him are
-ineffectual,—may have upon her enfeebled frame, and still worse upon
-her mind. What a mercy that the blow aimed at her by the ruffian, Wild,
-though it brought her to the brink of the grave, should have restored her
-to reason! Ah! she stirs.”
- </p>
-<p>
-As she said this, she drew a little aside, while Mrs. Sheppard heaved a
-deep sigh, and opened her eyes, which now looked larger, blacker, and more
-melancholy than ever.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Where am I?” she cried, passing her hand across her brow.
-</p>
-<p>
-“With your friends, dear Mrs. Sheppard,” replied Winifred, advancing.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Ah! you are there, my dear young lady,” said the widow, smiling faintly;
-“when I first waken, I'm always in dread of finding myself again in that
-horrible asylum.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“You need never be afraid of that,” returned Winifred, affectionately; “my
-father will take care you never leave him more.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Oh! how much I owe him!” said the widow, with fervour, “for bringing me
-here, and removing me from those dreadful sights and sounds, that would
-have driven me distracted, even if I had been in my right mind. And how
-much I owe <i>you</i>, too, dearest Winifred, for your kindness and
-attention. Without you I should never have recovered either health or
-reason. I can never be grateful enough. But, though <i>I</i> cannot reward
-you, Heaven will.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Don't say anything about it, dear Mrs. Sheppard,” rejoined Winifred,
-controlling her emotion, and speaking as cheerfully as she could; “I would
-do anything in the world for you, and so would my father, and so would
-Thames; but he <i>ought</i>, for he's your nephew, you know. We all love
-you dearly.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Bless you! bless you!” cried Mrs. Sheppard, averting her face to hide her
-tears.
-</p>
-<p>
-“I mustn't tell you what Thames means to do for you if ever he gains his
-rights,” continued Winifred; “but I <i>may</i> tell you what my father
-means to do.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“He has done too much already,” answered the widow. “I shall need little
-more.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“But, <i>do</i> hear what it is,” rejoined Winifred; “you know I'm shortly
-to be united to your nephew,—that is,” she added, blushing, “when he
-can be married by his right name, for my father won't consent to it
-before.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Your father will never oppose your happiness, my dear, I'm sure,” said
-Mrs. Sheppard; “but, what has this to do with me?”
- </p>
-<p>
-“You shall hear,” replied Winifred; “when this marriage takes place, you
-and I shall be closely allied, but my father wishes for a still closer
-alliance.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“I don't understand you,” returned Mrs. Sheppard.
-</p>
-<p>
-“To be plain, then,” said Winifred, “he has asked me whether I have any
-objection to you as a mother.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“And what—what was your answer?” demanded the widow, eagerly.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Can't you guess?” returned Winifred, throwing her arms about her neck.
-“That he couldn't choose any one so agreeable to me.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Winifred,” said Mrs. Sheppard, after a brief pause, during which she
-appeared overcome by her feelings,—she said, gently disengaging
-herself from the young girl's embrace, and speaking in a firm voice, “you
-must dissuade your father from this step.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“How?” exclaimed the other. “Can you not love him?”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Love him!” echoed the widow. “The feeling is dead within my breast. My
-only love is for my poor lost son. I can esteem him, regard him; but, love
-him as he <i>ought</i> to be loved—that I cannot do.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Your esteem is all he will require,” urged Winifred.
-</p>
-<p>
-“He has it, and will ever have it,” replied Mrs. Sheppard, passionately,—“he
-has my boundless gratitude, and devotion. But I am not worthy to be any
-man's wife—far less <i>his</i> wife. Winifred, you are deceived in
-me. You know not what a wretched guilty thing I am. You know not in what
-dark places my life has been cast; with what crimes it has been stained.
-But the offences I <i>have</i> committed are venial in comparison with
-what I should commit were I to wed your father. No—no, it must never
-be.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“You paint yourself worse than you are, dear Mrs. Sheppard,” rejoined
-Winifred kindly. “Your faults were the faults of circumstances.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Palliate them as you may,” replied the widow, gravely, “they <i>were</i>
-faults; and as such, cannot be repaired by a greater wrong. If you love
-me, do not allude to this subject again.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“I'm sorry I mentioned it at all, since it distresses you,” returned
-Winifred; “but, as I knew my father intended to propose to you, if poor
-Jack should be respited—”
- </p>
-<p>
-“<i>If</i> he should be respited?” repeated Mrs. Sheppard, with startling
-eagerness. “Does your father doubt it? Speak! tell me!”
- </p>
-<p>
-Winifred made no answer.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Your hesitation convinces me he does,” replied the widow. “Is Thames
-returned from London?”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Not yet,” replied the other; “but I expect him every minute. My father's
-chief fear, I must tell you, is from the baneful influence of Jonathan
-Wild.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“That fiend is ever in my path,” exclaimed Mrs. Sheppard, with a look, the
-wildness of which greatly alarmed her companion. “I cannot scare him
-thence.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Hark!” cried Winifred, “Thames is arrived. I hear the sound of his
-horse's feet in the yard. Now you will learn the result.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Heaven support me!” cried Mrs. Sheppard, faintly.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Breathe at this phial,” said Winifred.
-</p>
-<p>
-Shortly afterwards,—it seemed an age to the anxious mother,—Mr.
-Wood entered the room, followed by Thames. The latter looked very pale,
-either from the effect of his wound, which was not yet entirely healed, or
-from suppressed emotion,—partly, perhaps, from both causes,—and
-wore his left arm in a sling.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Well!” cried Mrs. Sheppard, raising herself, and looking at him as if her
-life depended upon the answer. “He is respited?”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Alas! no,” replied Thames, sadly. “The warrant for his execution is
-arrived. There is no further hope.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“My poor son!” groaned the widow, sinking backwards.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Heaven have mercy on his soul!” ejaculated Wood.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Poor Jack!” cried Winifred, burying her face in her lover's bosom.
-</p>
-<p>
-Not a word was uttered for some time, nor any sound heard except the
-stilled sobs of the unfortunate mother.
-</p>
-<p>
-At length, she suddenly started to her feet; and before Winifred could
-prevent her, staggered up to Thames.
-</p>
-<p>
-“When is he to suffer?” she demanded, fixing her large black eyes, which
-burnt with an insane gleam, upon him.
-</p>
-<p>
-“On Friday,” he replied.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Friday!” echoed Mrs. Sheppard; “and to-day is Monday. He has three days
-to live. Only three days. Three short days. Horrible!”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Poor soul! her senses are going again,” said Mr. Wood, terrified by the
-wildness of her looks. “I was afraid it would be so.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Only three days,” reiterated the widow, “three short short days,—and
-then all is over. Jonathan's wicked threat is fulfilled at last. The
-gallows is in view—I see it with all its hideous apparatus!—ough!”
- and shuddering violently, she placed her hands before her, as if to
-exclude some frightful vision from her sight.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Do not despair, my sweet soul,” said Wood, in a soothing tone.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Do not despair!” echoed Mrs. Sheppard, with a laugh that cut the ears of
-those who listened to it like a razor,—“Do not despair! And who or
-what shall give me comfort when my son is gone? I have wept till my eyes
-are dry,—suffered till my heart is broken,—prayed till the
-voice of prayer is dumb,—and all of no avail. He will be hanged—hanged—hanged.
-Ha! ha! What have I left but despair and madness? Promise me one thing,
-Mr. Wood,” she continued, with a sudden change of tone, and convulsively
-clutching the carpenter's arm, “promise it me.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Anything, my dear,” replied Wood, “What is it?”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Bury us together in one grave in Willesden churchyard. There is a small
-yew-tree west of the church. Beneath that tree let us lie. In one grave,
-mind. Do you promise to do this?”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Solemnly,” rejoined the carpenter.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Enough,” said the widow, gratefully. “I must see him to-night.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Impossible, dear Mrs. Sheppard,” said Thames. “To-morrow I will take you
-to him.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“To-morrow will be too late,” replied the widow, in a hollow voice, “I
-feel it will. I must go to-night, or I shall never behold him again. I
-must bless him before I die. I have strength enough to drag myself there,
-and I do not want to return.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Be pacified, sweet soul,” said Wood, looking meaningly at Thames; “you <i>shall</i>
-go, and I will accompany you.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“A mother's blessing on you,” replied Mrs. Sheppard, fervently. “And now,”
- she added, with somewhat more composure, “leave me, dear friends, I
-entreat, for a few minutes to collect my scattered thoughts—to
-prepare myself for what I have to go through—to pray for my son.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Shall we do so?” whispered Winifred to her father.
-</p>
-<p>
-“By all means,” returned Wood; “don't delay an instant.” And, followed by
-the young couple, who gazed wistfully at the poor sufferer, he hastily
-quitted the room, and locked the door after him.
-</p>
-<p>
-Mrs. Sheppard was no sooner alone than she fell upon her knees by the side
-of the couch, and poured forth her heart in prayer. So absorbed was she by
-her passionate supplications that she was insensible to anything passing
-around her, until she felt a touch upon her shoulder, and heard a
-well-known voice breathe in her ear—“Mother!”
- </p>
-<p>
-She started at the sound as if an apparition had called her, screamed, and
-fell into her son's outstretched arms. “Mother! dear mother!” cried Jack,
-folding her to his breast.
-</p>
-<p>
-“My son! my dear, dear son!” returned Mrs. Sheppard, returning his embrace
-with all a parent's tenderness.
-</p>
-<p>
-Jack was completely overcome. His chest heaved violently, and big tears
-coursed rapidly down his cheeks.
-</p>
-<p>
-“I don't deserve it,” he said, at length; “but I would have risked a
-thousand deaths to enjoy this moment's happiness.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“And you must have risked much to obtain it, my love. I have scarcely
-recovered from the shock of hearing of your condemnation, when I behold
-you free!”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Not two hours since,” rejoined Jack, “I was chained down in the Condemned
-Hold in Newgate. With a small saw, conveyed to me a few days since by
-Thames Darrell, which I contrived to conceal upon my person, I removed a
-spike in the hatch, and, with the aid of some other friends, worked my way
-out. Having heard from Thames that you were better, and that your sole
-anxiety was about me, I came to give you the <i>first</i> intelligence of
-my escape.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Bless you for it. But you will stay here?”
- </p>
-<p>
-“I dare not. I must provide for my safety.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Mr. Wood will protect you,” urged Mrs. Sheppard.
-</p>
-<p>
-“He has not the power—perhaps not the will to do so. And if he
-would, <i>I</i> would not subject him to the annoyance. The moment my
-escape is known, a large reward will be placed on my head. My dress, my
-person will be minutely described. Jonathan Wild and his bloodhounds, with
-a hundred others, incited by the reward, will be upon my track. Nay, for
-aught I know, some of them may even now have got scent of me.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“You terrify me,” cried Mrs. Sheppard. “Oh! if this is the case, do not
-stay an instant. Fly! fly!”
- </p>
-<p>
-“As soon as I can do so with safety, I will return, or send to you,” said
-Jack.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Do not endanger yourself on my account,” rejoined his mother. “I am quite
-easy now; receive my blessing, my dear son; and if we never meet again,
-rest assured my last prayer shall be for you.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Do not talk thus, dear mother,” returned Jack, gazing anxiously at her
-pale countenance, “or I shall not be able to quit you. You must live for
-me.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“I will try to do so,” replied the widow, forcing a smile. “One last
-embrace. I need not counsel you to avoid those fatal courses which have
-placed you in such fearful jeopardy.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“You need not,” replied Jack, in a tone of the deepest compunction. “And,
-oh! forgive me, though I can never forgive myself, for the misery I have
-caused you.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Forgive you!” echoed his mother, with a look radiant with delight. “I
-have nothing to forgive. Ah!” she screamed, with a sudden change of
-manner; and pointing to the window, which Jack had left open, and at which
-a dark figure was standing, “there is Jonathan Wild!”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Betrayed!” exclaimed Jack, glancing in the same direction. “The door!—the
-door!—death!” he added, as he tried the handle, “it is locked—and
-I am unarmed. Madman that I am to be so!”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Help!” shrieked Mrs. Sheppard.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Be silent,” said Jonathan, striding deliberately into the room; “these
-cries will avail you nothing. Whoever answers them must assist me to
-capture your son. Be silent, I say, if you value his safety.”
- </p>
-<p>
-Awed by Jonathan's manner, Mrs. Sheppard repressed the scream that rose to
-her lips, and both mother and son gazed with apprehension at the heavy
-figure of the thief-taker, which, viewed in the twilight, seemed dilated
-to twice its natural size, and appeared almost to block up the window. In
-addition to his customary arms, Jonathan carried a bludgeon with a large
-heavy knob, suspended from his wrist by a loop; a favourite weapon, which
-he always took with him on dangerous expeditions, and which, if any
-information had been requisite, would have told Sheppard that the present
-was one of them.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Well, Jack,” he said, after a pause, “are you disposed to go back quietly
-with me?”
- </p>
-<p>
-“You'll ascertain that when you attempt to touch me,” rejoined Sheppard,
-resolutely.
-</p>
-<p>
-“My janizaries are within call,” returned Wild. “I'm armed; you are not.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“It matters not. You shall not take me alive.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Spare him! spare him!” cried Mrs. Sheppard, falling on her knees.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Get up, mother,” cried Jack; “do not kneel to him. I wouldn't accept my
-life from him. I've foiled him hitherto, and will foil him yet. And, come
-what will, I'll balk him of the satisfaction of hanging me.”
- </p>
-<p>
-Jonathan raised his bludgeon, but controlled himself by a powerful effort.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Fool!” he cried, “do you think I wouldn't have secured you before this if
-I hadn't some motive for my forbearance?”
- </p>
-<p>
-“And that motive is fear,” replied Jack contemptuously.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Fear!” echoed Wild, in a terrible tone,—“fear! Repeat that word
-again, and nothing shall save you.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Don't anger him, my dear son,” implored the poor widow, with a look of
-anguish at Jack. “Perhaps he means well.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Mad as you are, you're the more sensible of the two, I must say,”
- rejoined Jonathan.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Spare him!” cried Mrs. Sheppard, who fancied she had made some impression
-on the obdurate breast of the thief-taker,—“spare him! and I will
-forgive you, will thank you, bless you. Spare him! spare him!”
- </p>
-<p>
-“On one condition I <i>will</i> spare him,” returned Wild; “on one
-condition only.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“What is it?” asked the poor woman.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Either he or you must return with me,” answered Jonathan.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Take <i>me</i>, then,” replied the widow. And she would have rushed to
-him, if she had not been forcibly withheld by her son.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Do not go near him, mother,” cried Jack; “do not believe him. There is
-some deep treachery hidden beneath his words.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“I <i>will</i> go,” said Mrs. Sheppard, struggling to get free.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Attend to me, Mrs. Sheppard,” said Jonathan, looking calmly on at this
-distressing scene, “Attend to me, and do not heed him. I swear to you,
-solemnly swear to you, I will save your son's life, nay more, will
-befriend him, will place him out of the reach of his enemies, if you
-consent to become my wife.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Execrable villain!” exclaimed Jack.
-</p>
-<p>
-“You hear that,” cried Mrs. Sheppard; “he swears to save you.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Well,” replied her son; “and you spurn the proposal.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“No; she accepts it,” rejoined Jonathan, triumphantly. “Come along, Mrs.
-Sheppard. I've a carriage within call shall convey you swiftly to town.
-Come! come!”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Hear me, mother,” cried Jack, “and I will explain to you <i>why</i> the
-villain makes this strange and revolting proposal. He well knows that but
-two lives—those of Thames Darrell and Sir Rowland Trenchard,—stand
-between you and the vast possessions of the family. Those lives removed,—and
-Sir Rowland is completely in his power, the estates would be yours—HIS!
-if he were your husband. Now do you see his motive?”
- </p>
-<p>
-“I see nothing but your danger,” replied his mother, tenderly.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Granted it were as you say, Jack,” said Wild;—“and I sha'n't take
-the trouble to contradict you—the estates would be <i>yours</i>
-hereafter.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Liar!” cried Jack. “Do you affect ignorance that I am a condemned felon,
-and can inherit nothing? But do not imagine that under any circumstances I
-would accept your terms. My mother shall never degrade herself by a
-connection with you.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Degrade herself,” rejoined Jonathan, brutally. “Do you think I would take
-a harlot to my bed, if it didn't suit my purposes to do so?”
- </p>
-<p>
-“He says right,” replied Mrs. Sheppard, distractedly. “I am only fit for
-such as him. Take me! take me!”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Before an hour you shall be mine,” said Jonathan advancing towards her.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Back!” cried Jack fiercely: “lay a finger on her, and I will fell you to
-the ground. Mother! do you know what you do? Would you sell yourself to
-this fiend?”
- </p>
-<p>
-“I would sell myself, body and soul, to save you,” rejoined his mother,
-bursting from his grasp.
-</p>
-<p>
-Jonathan caught her in his arms.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Come away!” he cried, with the roar of a demon.
-</p>
-<p>
-This laugh and his looks alarmed her.
-</p>
-<p>
-“It <i>is</i> the fiend!” she exclaimed, recoiling. “Save me!—save
-me!”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Damnation!” vociferated Jonathan, savagely. “We've no time for any Bedlam
-scenes now. Come along, you mad jade. I'll teach you submission in time.”
- </p>
-<p>
-With this, he endeavoured to force her off; but, before he could
-accomplish his purpose, he was arrested, and his throat seized by Jack. In
-the struggle, Mrs. Sheppard broke from him, and filled the room with her
-shrieks.
-</p>
-<p>
-“I'll now pay the debt I owe you,” cried Jack, tightening his grip till
-the thief-taker blackened in the face.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Dog!” cried Wild, freeing himself by a powerful effort, and dealing Jack
-a violent blow with the heavy bludgeon, which knocked him backwards, “you
-are not yet a match for Jonathan Wild. Neither you nor your mother shall
-escape me. But I must summon my janizaries.” So saying, he raised a
-whistle to his lips, and blew a loud call; and, as this was unanswered,
-another still louder. “Confusion!” he cried; “something has happened. But
-I won't be cheated of my prize.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Help! help!” shrieked Mrs. Sheppard, fleeing from him to the farthest
-corner of the room.
-</p>
-<p>
-But it was of no avail. Jonathan again seized her, when the door was
-thrown open, and Thames Darrell, followed by Mr. Wood and several
-serving-men, all well armed, rushed into the room. A glance sufficed to
-show the young man how matters stood. He flew to the window, and would
-have passed his sword through the thief-taker's body, if the latter had
-not quickly interposed the person of Mrs. Sheppard, so that if the blow
-had been stricken she must have received it.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Quilt!—Mendez!—Where are you?” vociferated Wild, sounding his
-whistle for the third time.
-</p>
-<p>
-“You call in vain,” rejoined Thames. “Your assistants are in my power.
-Yield, villain!”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Never!” replied Jonathan.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Put down your burthen, monster!” shouted Wood, pointing an immense
-blunderbuss at him.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Take her,” cried Jonathan; and, flinging the now inanimate body of the
-poor widow, who had fainted in the struggle, into the arms of Thames, he
-leapt through the window, and by the time the latter could consign her to
-Wood, and dart after him, he had disappeared.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Pursue him,” cried Thames to the attendants, “and see that he does not
-escape.”
- </p>
-<p>
-The order was promptly obeyed.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Jack,” continued Thames, addressing Sheppard, who had only just recovered
-from the blow, and regained his feet, “I don't ask <i>how</i> you came
-here, nor do I blame your rashness in doing so. Fortunately, ever since
-Wild's late murderous attack, the household has all been well armed. A
-post-chaise seen in the road first alarmed us. On searching the grounds,
-we found two suspicious-looking fellows in the garden, and had scarcely
-secured them, when your mother's cries summoned us hither, just in time to
-preserve her.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Your arrival was most providential,” said Jack.
-</p>
-<p>
-“You must not remain here another instant,” replied Thames. “My horse is
-at the door, saddled, with pistols in the holsters,—mount him and
-fly.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Thames, I have much to say,” said Jack, “much that concerns your safety.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Not now,” returned Thames, impatiently. “I cannot—will not suffer
-you to remain here.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“I will go, if you will consent to meet me at midnight near the old house
-in Wych Street,” replied Jack. “By that time, I shall have fully
-considered a plan which occurs to me for defeating the schemes of your
-enemies.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Before that time you will be captured, if you expose yourself thus,”
- rejoined Thames. “However, I will be there. Farewell.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Till midnight,” replied Jack.
-</p>
-<p>
-And imprinting a kiss upon his mother's cold lips, he left the room. He
-found the horse where Thames told him he would find him, mounted, and rode
-off across the fields in the direction of town.
-</p>
-<p>
-<br /><br />
-</p>
-<hr />
-<p>
-<a name="link2HCH0002" id="link2HCH0002"> </a>
-</p>
-<div style="height: 4em;">
-<br /><br /><br /><br />
-</div>
-<h2>
-CHAPTER XII. THE WELL HOLE.
-</h2>
-<p class="pfirst"><span class="dropcap" style="font-size: 4.00em">J</span>onathan Wild's first object, as soon as he had made good his retreat, was
-to ascertain what had become of his janizaries, and, if possible, to
-release them. With this view, he hurried to the spot where he had left the
-post-chaise, and found it drawn up at the road-side, the postilion
-dismounted, and in charge of a couple of farming-men. Advancing towards
-them, sword in hand, Jonathan so terrified the hinds by his fierce looks
-and determined manner, that, after a slight show of resistance, they took
-to their heels, leaving him master of the field. He then threw open the
-door of the vehicle, in which he found his janizaries with their arms
-pinioned, and, leaping into it, ordered the man to drive off. The
-postilion obeyed, and dashed off as hard as his horses could gallop along
-the beautiful road leading to Neasdon and Willesden, just as the
-serving-men made their appearance. Arrived at the latter place, Jonathan,
-who, meanwhile, had contrived to liberate his attendants from their bonds,
-drew up at the Six Bells, and hiring a couple of horses, despatched his
-attendants in search of Jack Sheppard, while he proceeded to town.
-Dismissing the post-chaise at the Old Bailey, he walked to Newgate to
-ascertain what had occurred since the escape. It was just upon the stroke
-of nine as he entered the Lodge, and Mr. Austin was dismissing a host of
-inquirers who had been attracted thither by the news,—for it had
-already been extensively noised abroad. Some of these persons were
-examining the spot where the spike had been cut off; others the spike
-itself, now considered a remarkable object; and all were marvelling how
-Jack could have possibly squeezed himself through such a narrow aperture,
-until it was explained to them by Mr. Austin that the renowned
-housebreaker was of slender bodily conformation, and therefore able to
-achieve a feat, which he, Mr. Austin, or any man of similar dimensions,
-would have found wholly impossible. Affixed to the wall, in a conspicuous
-situation, was a large placard, which, after minutely describing
-Sheppard's appearance and attire, concluded thus:—“<i>Whoever will
-discover or apprehend the above</i> JOHN SHEPPARD, <i>so that he be
-brought to justice, shall receive</i> ONE HUNDRED GUINEAS REWARD, <i>to be
-paid by</i> MR. PITT, <i>the keeper of Newgate</i>.”
- </p>
-<p>
-This placard attracted universal attention. While Jonathan was conversing
-with Austin, from whom he took care to conceal the fact of his having seen
-Sheppard since his escape, Ireton entered the Lodge.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Altogether unsuccessful, Sir,” said the chief turnkey, with a look of
-disappointment, not unmixed with apprehension, as he approached Wild.
-“I've been to all the flash cases in town, and can hear nothing of him or
-his wives. First, I went to Country Tom's, the Goat, in Long Lane. Tom
-swore he hadn't set eyes on him since the trial. I next proceeded to Jenny
-Bunch's, the Ship, in Trig Lane—there I got the same answer. Then to
-the Feathers, in Drury Lane. Then to the Golden Ball, in the same street.
-Then to Martin's brandy-shop, in Fleet Street. Then to Dan Ware's, in
-Hanging Sword Court. Then to the Dean's Head, in St. Martin's Le Grand.
-And, lastly, to the Seven Cities o' Refuge, in the New Mint. And nowhere
-could I obtain the slightest information.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Humph!” exclaimed Wild.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Have you been more successful, Sir?” ventured Ireton.
-</p>
-<p>
-Jonathan shook his head.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Mr. Shotbolt thinks he has a scheme that can't fail,” interposed Austin;
-“but he wishes to know whether you'll be as good as your word, in respect
-to the great reward you offered for Jack's capture.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Have I ever broken my word in such matters, that he dares put the
-question?” rejoined Jonathan sternly. “Tell Mr. Shotbolt that if he, or
-any other person, takes Jack Sheppard before to-morrow morning, I'll
-double it. Do you hear?”
- </p>
-<p>
-“I do, Sir,” replied Austin respectfully.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Two hundred pounds, if he's lodged in Newgate before to-morrow morning,”
- continued Wild. “Make it known among your friends.” And he strode out of
-the place.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Two hundred pounds!” exclaimed Ireton, “besides the governor's offer—that's
-three hundred. I must go to work again. Keep a sharp look out, Austin, and
-see that we lose no one else. I should be sorry if Shotbolt got the
-reward.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Devilish hard! I'm not allowed a chance,” grumbled Austin, as he was left
-alone. “However, some one <i>must</i> look after the jail; and they're all
-gone but me. It's fortunate we've no more Jack Sheppards, or I should
-stand but a poor chance. Well, I don't think they'll any of 'em nab him,
-that's one comfort.”
- </p>
-<p>
-On quitting the Lodge, Wild repaired to his own habitation. Telling the
-porter that he would attend to the house himself, he bade him go in search
-of Jack Sheppard. There was something in Jonathan's manner, as he issued
-this command, that struck the man as singular, and he afterwards recalled
-it. He, however, made no remark at the time, but instantly prepared to set
-out. As soon as he was gone, Jonathan went up stairs to the
-audience-chamber; and, sitting down, appeared for some time buried in
-reflection. The dark and desperate thoughts that were passing through his
-mind at this time will presently be shown. After a while, he raised his
-eyes; and, if their glance could have been witnessed at the moment, it
-could not have been easily forgotten. Muttering something to himself, he
-appeared to be telling upon his fingers the advantages and disadvantages
-of some scheme he had in contemplation. That he had resolved upon its
-execution, whatever it might be, was evident from his saying aloud,—
-</p>
-<p>
-“I will do it. So good an opportunity may never occur again.”
- </p>
-<p>
-Upon this he arose, and paced the room hastily backwards and forwards, as
-if further arranging his plans. He then unlocked a cabinet, opened a
-secret drawer, and, lifter ransacking its contents, discovered a paper he
-was in search of, and a glove. Laying these carefully aside, he restored
-the drawer to its place. His next occupation was to take out his pistols,
-examine the priming, and rub the flints. His sword then came in for his
-scrutiny: he felt at, and appeared satisfied with its edge. This
-employment seemed to afford him the highest satisfaction; for a diabolical
-grin—it cannot be called a smile—played upon his face all the
-time he was engaged in it. His sword done with, he took up the bludgeon;
-balanced it in his hand; upon the points of his fingers; and let it fall
-with a smash, intentionally, upon the table.
-</p>
-<p>
-“After all,” he said, “this is the safest weapon. No instrument I've ever
-used has done me such good service. It <i>shall</i> be the bludgeon.” So
-saying, he slung it upon his wrist.
-</p>
-<p>
-Taking up a link, which was blazing beside him, he walked across the room;
-and touching a spring in the wall, a secret door flew open. Beyond was a
-narrow bridge, crossing a circular building, at the bottom of which lay a
-deep well. It was a dark mysterious place, and what it was used for no one
-exactly knew; but it was called by those who had seen it the Well Hole.
-The bridge was protected on either side by a railing with bannisters
-placed at wide intervals. Steps to aid the descent, which was too steep to
-be safe without them, led to, a door on the opposite side. This door,
-which was open, Jonathan locked and took out the key. As he stood upon the
-bridge, he held down the light, and looked into the profound abyss. The
-red glare fell upon the slimy brick-work, and tinged the inky waters
-below. A slight cough uttered by Jonathan at the moment awakened the
-echoes of the place, and was returned in hollow reverberations. “There'll
-be a louder echo here presently,” thought Jonathan. Before leaving the
-place he looked upwards, and could just discern the blue vault and pale
-stars of Heaven through an iron grating at the top.
-</p>
-<p>
-On his return to the room, Jonathan purposely left the door of the Well
-Hole ajar. Unlocking a cupboard, he then took out some cold meat and other
-viands, with a flask of wine, and a bottle of brandy, and began to eat and
-drink voraciously. He had very nearly cleared the board, when a knock was
-heard below, and descending at the summons, he found his two janizaries.
-They had both been unsuccessful. As Jonathan scarcely expected a more
-satisfactory result, he made no comment; but, ordering Quilt to continue
-his search, and not to return until he had found the fugitive, called
-Abraham Mendez into the house, and shut the door.
-</p>
-<p>
-“I want you for the job I spoke of a short time ago, Nab,” he said. “I
-mean to have no one but yourself in it. Come up stairs, and take a glass
-of brandy.”
- </p>
-<p>
-Abraham grinned, and silently followed his master, who, as soon as they
-reached the audience-chamber, poured out a bumper of spirits, and
-presented it to him. The Jew swallowed it at a draught.
-</p>
-<p>
-“By my shoul!” he exclaimed, smacking his lips, “dat ish goot—very
-goot.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“You shall finish the bottle when the job's done,” replied Jonathan.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Vat ish it, Mishter Vild?” inquired Mendez. “Shir Rowland Trenchard's
-affair—eh?”
- </p>
-<p>
-“That's it,” rejoined Jonathan; “I expect him here every minute. When
-you've admitted him, steal into the room, hide yourself, and don't move
-till I utter the words, 'You've a long journey before you.' That's your
-signal.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“And a famoush goot shignal it ish,” laughed Abraham. “He hash a long
-journey before him—ha! ha!”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Peace!” cried Jonathan. “There's his knock. Go, and let him in. And mind
-you don't arouse his suspicions.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Never fear—never fear,” rejoined Abraham, as he took up the link,
-and left the room.
-</p>
-<p>
-Jonathan cast a hasty glance around, to see that all was properly arranged
-for his purpose; placed a chair with its back to the door; disposed the
-lights on the table so as to throw the entrance of the room more into
-shadow; and then flung himself into a seat to await Sir Rowland's arrival.
-</p>
-<p>
-He had not to wait long. Enveloped in a large cloak, Sir Rowland stalked
-into the room, and took the seat assigned him; while the Jew, who received
-a private signal from Jonathan, set down the link near the entrance of the
-Well Hole, and, having made fast the door, crept behind one of the cases.
-</p>
-<p>
-Fancying they were alone, Sir Rowland threw aside his cloak, and produced
-a heavy bag of money, which he flung upon the table; and, when Wild had
-feasted his greedy eyes sufficiently upon its golden contents, he handed
-him a pocket-book filled with notes.
-</p>
-<p>
-“You have behaved like a man of honour, Sir Rowland,” said Wild, after he
-had twice told over the money. “Right to a farthing.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Give me an acquittance,” said Trenchard.
-</p>
-<p>
-“It's scarcely necessary,” replied Wild; “however, if you require it,
-certainly. There it is. 'Received from Sir Rowland Trenchard, 15,000£.
-—Jonathan Wild: August 31st, 1724.' Will that do?”
- </p>
-<p>
-“It will,” replied Trenchard. “This is our last transaction together.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“I hope not,” replied Wild.
-</p>
-<p>
-“It is the last,” continued the knight, sternly; “and I trust we may never
-meet again, I have paid you this large sum—not because you are
-entitled to it, for you have failed in what you undertook to do, but
-because I desire to be troubled with you no further. I have now settled my
-affairs, and made every preparation for my departure to France, where I
-shall spend the remainder of my days. And I have made such arrangements
-that at my decease tardy justice will be done my injured nephew.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“You have made no such arrangements as will compromise me, I hope, Sir
-Rowland?” said Wild, hastily.
-</p>
-<p>
-“While I live you are safe,” rejoined Trenchard; “after my death I can
-answer for nothing.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“'Sblood!” exclaimed Wild, uneasily. “This alters the case materially.
-When were you last confessed, Sir Rowland?” he added abruptly.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Why do you ask?” rejoined the other haughtily.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Because—because I'm always distrustful of a priest,” rejoined
-Jonathan.
-</p>
-<p>
-“I have just parted from one,” said Trenchard.
-</p>
-<p>
-“So much the worse,” replied Jonathan, rising and taking a turn, as if
-uncertain what to do.
-</p>
-<p>
-“So much the better,” rejoined Sir Rowland. “He who stands on the verge of
-the grave, as I do, should never be unprepared.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“You're strangely superstitious, Sir Rowland,” said Jonathan, halting, and
-looking steadfastly at him.
-</p>
-<p>
-“If I were so, I should not be here,” returned Trenchard.
-</p>
-<p>
-“How so?” asked Wild, curiously.
-</p>
-<p>
-“I had a terrible dream last night. I thought my sister and her murdered
-husband dragged me hither, to this very room, and commanded you to slay
-me.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“A terrible dream, indeed,” said Jonathan thoughtfully. “But you mustn't
-indulge these gloomy thoughts. Let me recommend a glass of wine.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“My penance forbids it,” said Trenchard, waving his hand. “I cannot remain
-here long.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“You will remain longer than you anticipate,” muttered Wild.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Before I go,” continued Sir Rowland, “I must beg of you to disclose to me
-all you know relative to the parentage of Thames Darrell.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Willingly,” replied Wild. “Thinking it likely you might desire to have
-this information, I prepared accordingly. First, look at this glove. It
-belonged to his father, and was worn by him on the night he was murdered.
-You will observe that a coronet is embroidered on it.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Ha!” exclaimed Trenchard, starting, “is he so highly born?”
- </p>
-<p>
-“This letter will inform you,” replied Wild, placing a document in his
-hand.
-</p>
-<p>
-“What is this!” cried Sir Rowland. “I know the hand—ha! my friend!
-and I have murdered <i>him</i>! And my sister was thus nobly, thus
-illustriously wedded. O God! O God!”
- </p>
-<p>
-And he appeared convulsed with agony.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Oh! if I had known this,” he exclaimed, “what guilt, what remorse might
-have been spared me!”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Repentance comes too late when the deed's done,” returned Wild, bitterly.
-</p>
-<p>
-“It is not too late to repair the wrong I have done my nephew,” cried
-Trenchard. “I will set about it instantly. He shall have the estates. I
-will return to Manchester at once.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“You had better take some refreshment before you start,” rejoined Wild. “'<i>You've
-a long journey before you.</i>'”
- </p>
-<p>
-As the signal was given, the Jew, who had been some time in expectation of
-it, darted swiftly and silently behind Sir Rowland, and flung a cloth over
-his head, while Jonathan, rushing upon him in front, struck him several
-quick and violent blows in the face with the bludgeon. The white cloth was
-instantly dyed with crimson; but, regardless of this, Jonathan continued
-his murderous assault. The struggles of the wounded man were desperate—so
-desperate, that in his agony he overset the table, and, in the confusion,
-tore off the cloth, and disclosed a face horribly mutilated, and streaming
-with blood. So appalling was the sight, that even the murderers—familiar
-as they were with scenes of slaughter,—looked aghast at it.
-</p>
-<p>
-During this dreadful pause the wretched man felt for his sword. It had
-been removed from the scabbard by the Jew. He uttered a deep groan, but
-said nothing.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Despatch him!” roared Jonathan.
-</p>
-<p>
-Having no means of defence, Sir Rowland cleared the blood from his vision;
-and, turning to see whether there was any means of escape, he descried the
-open door behind him leading to the Well Hole, and instantly darted
-through it.
-</p>
-<p>
-“As I could wish!” cried Jonathan. “Bring the light, Nab.”
- </p>
-<p>
-The Jew snatched up the link, and followed him.
-</p>
-<p>
-A struggle of the most terrific kind now ensued. The wounded man had
-descended the bridge, and dashed himself against the door beyond it; but,
-finding it impossible to force his way further, he turned to confront his
-assailants. Jonathan aimed a blow at him, which, if it had taken place,
-must have instantly terminated the strife; but, avoiding this, he sprang
-at the thief-taker, and grappled with him. Firmly built, as it was, the
-bridge creaked in such a manner with their contending efforts, that
-Abraham durst not venture beyond the door, where he stood, holding the
-light, a horrified spectator of the scene. The contest, however, though
-desperate, was brief. Disengaging his right arm, Jonathan struck his
-victim a tremendous blow on the head with the bludgeon, that fractured his
-skull; and, exerting all his strength, threw him over the rails, to which
-he clung with the tenacity of despair.
-</p>
-<p>
-<br /><br />
-</p>
-<hr />
-<p>
-<a name="linkimage-0003" id="linkimage-0003"> </a>
-</p>
-<div class="fig" style="width:35%;">
-<img src="images/059s.jpg" alt="059s " width="100%" /><br />
-</div>
-<h4>
-<a href="images/059.jpg"><i>Original Size</i></a> -- <a
-href="images/059m.jpg"><i>Medium-Size</i></a>
-</h4>
-<p>
-“Spare me!” he groaned, looking upwards. “Spare me!”
- </p>
-<p>
-Jonathan, however, instead of answering him, searched for his knife, with
-the intention of severing his wrist. But not finding it, he had again
-recourse to the bludgeon, and began beating the hand fixed on the upper
-rail, until, by smashing the fingers, he forced it to relinquish its hold.
-He then stamped upon the hand on the lower bannister, until that also
-relaxed its gripe.
-</p>
-<p>
-Sir Rowland then fell.
-</p>
-<p>
-A hollow plunge, echoed and re-echoed by the walls, marked his descent
-into the water.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Give me the link,” cried Jonathan.
-</p>
-<p>
-Holding down the light, he perceived that the wounded man had risen to the
-surface, and was trying to clamber up the slippery sides of the well.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Shoot him! shoot him! Put him out of hish mishery,” cried the Jew.
-</p>
-<p>
-“What's the use of wasting a shot?” rejoined Jonathan, savagely. “He can't
-get out.”
- </p>
-<p>
-After making several ineffectual attempts to keep himself above water, Sir
-Rowland sunk, and his groans, which had become gradually fainter and
-fainter, were heard no more.
-</p>
-<p>
-“All's over,” muttered Jonathan.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Shall ve go back to de other room?” asked the Jew. “I shall breathe more
-freely dere. Oh! Christ! de door's shut! It musht have schwung to during
-de schuffle!”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Shut!” exclaimed Wild. “Then we're imprisoned. The spring can't be opened
-on this side.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Dere's de other door!” cried Mendez, in alarm.
-</p>
-<p>
-“It only leads to the fencing crib,” replied Wild. “There's no outlet that
-way.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Can't ve call for asshistanche?”
- </p>
-<p>
-“And who'll find us, if we do?” rejoined Wild, fiercely. “But they <i>will</i>
-find the evidences of slaughter in the other room,—the table upset,—the
-bloody cloth,—the dead man's sword,—the money,—and my
-memorandum, which I forgot to remove. Hell's curses! that after all my
-precautions I should be thus entrapped. It's all your fault, you shaking
-coward! and, but that I feel sure you'll swing for your carelessness, I'd
-throw you into the well, too.”
- </p>
-<p>
-<br /><br />
-</p>
-<hr />
-<p>
-<a name="link2HCH0003" id="link2HCH0003"> </a>
-</p>
-<div style="height: 4em;">
-<br /><br /><br /><br />
-</div>
-<h2>
-CHAPTER XIII. THE SUPPER AT MR. KNEEBONE'S.
-</h2>
-<p class="pfirst"><span class="dropcap" style="font-size: 4.00em">P</span>ersuaded that Jack Sheppard would keep his appointment with Mr. Kneebone,
-and feeling certain of capturing him if he did so, Shotbolt, on quitting
-Newgate, hurried to the New Prison to prepare for the enterprise. After
-debating with himself for some time whether he should employ an assistant,
-or make the attempt alone, his love of gain overcame his fears, and he
-decided upon the latter plan. Accordingly, having armed himself with
-various weapons, including a stout oaken staff then ordinarily borne by
-the watch, and put a coil of rope and a gag in his pocket, to be ready in
-case of need, he set out, about ten o'clock, on the expedition.
-</p>
-<p>
-Before proceeding to Wych Street, he called at the Lodge to see how
-matters were going on, and found Mrs. Spurling and Austin at their evening
-meal, with Caliban in attendance.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Well, Mr. Shotbolt,” cried the turnkey, “I've good news for you. Mr. Wild
-has doubled his offer, and the governor has likewise proclaimed a reward
-of one hundred guineas for Jack's apprehension.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“You don't say so!” exclaimed Shotbolt.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Read that,” rejoined Austin, pointing to the placard. “I ought to tell
-you that Mr. Wild's reward is conditional upon Jack's being taken before
-to-morrow morning. So I fear there's little chance of any one getting it.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“You think so, eh?” chuckled Shotbolt, who was eagerly perusing the
-reward, and congratulating himself upon his caution; “you think so—ha!
-ha! Well, don't go to bed, that's all.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“What for?” demanded the turnkey.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Because the prisoner's arrival might disturb you—ha! ha!”
- </p>
-<p>
-“I'll lay you twenty guineas you don't take him to-night,” rejoined
-Austin.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Done!” cried Shotbolt. “Mrs. Spurling, you're a witness to the bet.
-Twenty guineas, mind. I shan't let you off a farthing. Egad! I shall make
-a good thing of it.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Never count your chickens till they're hatched,” observed Mrs. Spurling,
-drily.
-</p>
-<p>
-“<i>My</i> chickens are hatched, or, at least, nearly so,” replied
-Shotbolt, with increased merriment. “Get ready your heaviest irons,
-Austin. I'll send you word when I catch him.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“You'd better send <i>him</i>,” jeered the turnkey.
-</p>
-<p>
-“So I will,” rejoined Shotbolt; “so I will. If I don't, you shall clap me
-in the Condemned Hold in his stead. Good-bye, for the present—ha!
-ha!” And, laughing loudly at his own facetiousness, he quitted the Lodge.
-</p>
-<p>
-“I'll lay my life he's gone on a fox-and-goose-chase to Mr. Kneebone's,”
- remarked Austin, rising to fasten the door.
-</p>
-<p>
-“I shouldn't wonder,” replied Mrs. Spurling, as if struck by a sudden
-idea. And, while the turnkey was busy with the keys, she whispered to the
-black, “Follow him, Caliban. Take care he don't see you,—and bring
-me word where he goes, and what he does.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Iss, missis,” grinned the black.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Be so good as to let Caliban out, Mr. Austin,” continued the tapstress;
-“he's only going on an errand.”
- </p>
-<p>
-Austin readily complied with her request. As he returned to the table, he
-put his finger to his nose; and, though he said nothing, he thought he had
-a much better chance of winning his wager.
-</p>
-<p>
-Unconscious that his movements were watched, Shotbolt, meanwhile, hastened
-towards Wych Street. On the way, he hired a chair with a couple of stout
-porters, and ordered them to follow him. Arrived within a short distance
-of his destination, he came to a halt, and pointing out a dark court
-nearly opposite the woollen-draper's abode, told the chairmen to wait
-there till they were summoned.
-</p>
-<p>
-“I'm a peace-officer,” he added, “about to arrest a notorious criminal.
-He'll be brought out at this door, and may probably make some resistance.
-But you must get him into the chair as fast as you can, and hurry off to
-Newgate.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“And what'll we get for the job, yer hon'r?” asked the foremost chairman,
-who, like most of his tribe at the time, was an Irishman.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Five guineas. Here's a couple in hand.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Faix, then we'll do it in style,” cried the fellow. “Once in this chair,
-yer hon'r, and I'll warrant he'll not get out so aisily as Jack Sheppard
-did from the New Pris'n.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Hold your tongue, sirrah,” rejoined Shotbolt, not over-pleased by the
-remark, “and mind what I tell you. Ah! what's that?” he exclaimed, as some
-one brushed hastily past him. “If I hadn't just left him, I could have
-sworn it was Mrs. Spurling's sooty imp, Caliban.”
- </p>
-<p>
-Having seen the chairmen concealed in the entry, Shotbolt proceeded to Mr.
-Kneebone's habitation, the shutters of which were closed, and knocked at
-the door. The summons was instantly answered by a shop-boy.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Is your master at home?” inquired the jailer.
-</p>
-<p>
-“He is,” replied a portly personage, arrayed in a gorgeous yellow brocade
-dressing-gown, lined with cherry-coloured satin, and having a crimson
-velvet cap, surmounted by a gold tassel, on his head. “My name is
-Kneebone,” added the portly personage, stepping forward. “What do you want
-with me?”
- </p>
-<p>
-“A word in private,” replied the other.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Stand aside, Tom,” commanded Kneebone. “Now Sir,” he added, glancing
-suspiciously at the applicant “your business?”
- </p>
-<p>
-“My business is to acquaint you that Jack Sheppard has escaped, Mr.
-Kneebone,” returned Shotbolt.
-</p>
-<p>
-“The deuce he has! Why, it's only a few hours since I beheld him chained
-down with half a hundred weight of iron, in the strongest ward at Newgate.
-It's almost incredible. Are you sure you're not misinformed, Sir?”
- </p>
-<p>
-“I was in the Lodge at the time,” replied the jailer.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Then, of course, you must know. Well, it's scarcely credible. When I gave
-him an invitation to supper, I little thought he'd accept it. But, egad! I
-believe he <i>will</i>.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“I'm convinced of it,” replied Shotbolt; “and it was on that very account
-I came here.” And he proceeded to unfold his scheme to the woollen-draper.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Well, Sir,” said Kneebone, when the other concluded, “I shall certainly
-not oppose his capture, but, at the same time, I'll lend you no
-assistance. If he keeps <i>his</i> word, I'll keep <i>mine</i>. You must
-wait till supper's over.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“As you please, Sir,—provided you don't let him off.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“That I'll engage not to do. I've another reason for supposing he'll pay
-me a visit. I refused to sign a petition in his behalf to the Recorder;
-not from any ill-will to him, but because it was prepared by a person whom
-I particularly dislike—Captain Darrell.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“A very sufficient reason,” answered the jailer.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Tom,” continued Kneebone, calling to the shop-boy, “don't go home. I may
-want you. Light the lantern. And, if you hear any odd noise in the
-parlour, don't mind it.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Not in the least, Sir,” replied Tom, in a drowsy tone, and with a look
-seeming to imply that he was too much accustomed to odd noises at night to
-heed them.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Now, step this way, Mr. What's-your-name?”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Shotbolt, Sir,” replied the jailer.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Very well, Mr. Slipshod; follow me.” And he led the way to an inner room,
-in the middle of which stood a table, covered with a large white cloth.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Jack Sheppard knows this house, I believe, Sir,” observed Shotbolt.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Every inch of it,” replied the woollen-draper. “He <i>ought</i> to do,
-seeing that he served his apprenticeship in it to Mr. Wood, by whom it was
-formerly occupied. His name is carved upon a beam up stairs.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Indeed!” said Shotbolt. “Where can I hide myself?” he added, glancing
-round the room in search of a closet.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Under the table. The cloth nearly touches the floor. Give me your staff.
-It'll be in your way.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Suppose he brings Blueskin, or some other ruffian with him,” hesitated
-the jailer.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Suppose he does. In that case I'll help you. We shall be equally matched.
-You're not afraid, Mr. Shoplatch.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Not in the least,” replied Shotbolt, creeping beneath the table; “there's
-my staff. Am I quite hidden?”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Not quite;—keep your feet in. Mind you don't stir till supper's
-over. I'll stamp twice when we've done.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“I forgot to mention there's a trifling reward for his capture,” cried
-Shotbolt, popping his head from under the cloth. “If we take him, I don't
-mind giving you a share—say a fourth—provided you lend a
-helping hand.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Curse your reward!” exclaimed Kneebone, angrily. “Do you take me for a
-thief-catcher, like Jonathan Wild, that you dare to affront me by such a
-proposal?”
- </p>
-<p>
-“No offence, Sir,” rejoined the jailer, humbly. “I didn't imagine for a
-moment that you'd accept it, but I thought it right to make you the
-offer.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Be silent, and conceal yourself. I'm about to ring for supper.”
- </p>
-<p>
-The woollen-draper's application to the bell was answered by a very pretty
-young woman, with dark Jewish features, roguish black eyes, sleek glossy
-hair, a trim waist, and a remarkably neat figure: the very model, in
-short, of a bachelor's housekeeper.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Rachel,” said Mr. Kneebone, addressing his comely attendant; “put a few
-more plates on the table, and bring up whatever there is in the larder. I
-expect company.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Company!” echoed Rachel; “at this time of night?”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Company, child,” repeated Kneebone. “I shall want a bottle or two of
-sack, and a flask of usquebaugh.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Anything else, Sir?”
- </p>
-<p>
-“No:—stay! you'd better not bring up any silver forks or spoons.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Why, surely you don't think your guests would steal them,” observed
-Rachel, archly.
-</p>
-<p>
-“They shan't have the opportunity,” replied Kneebone. And, by way of
-checking his housekeeper's familiarity, he pointed significantly to the
-table.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Who's there?” cried Rachel. “I'll see.” And before she could be
-prevented, she lifted up the cloth, and disclosed Shotbolt. “Oh, Gemini!”
- she exclaimed. “A man!”
- </p>
-<p>
-“At your service, my dear,” replied the jailer.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Now your curiosity's satisfied, child,” continued Kneebone, “perhaps,
-you'll attend to my orders.”
- </p>
-<p>
-Not a little perplexed by the mysterious object she had seen, Rachel left
-the room, and, shortly afterwards returned with the materials of a
-tolerably good supper;—to wit, a couple of cold fowls, a tongue, the
-best part of a sirloin of beef, a jar of pickles, and two small dishes of
-pastry. To these she added the wine and spirits directed, and when all was
-arranged looked inquisitively at her master.
-</p>
-<p>
-“I expect a very extraordinary person to supper, Rachel,” he remarked.
-</p>
-<p>
-“The gentleman under the table,” she answered. “He <i>does</i> seem a very
-extraordinary person.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“No; another still more extraordinary.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Indeed!—who is it?”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Jack Sheppard.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“What! the famous housebreaker. I thought he was in Newgate.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“He's let out for a few hours,” laughed Kneebone; “but he's going back
-again after supper.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Oh, dear! how I should like to see him. I'm told he's so handsome.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“I'm sorry I can't indulge you,” replied her master, a little piqued. “I
-shall want nothing more. You had better go to bed.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“It's no use going to bed,” answered Rachel. “I shan't sleep a wink while
-Jack Sheppard's in the house.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Keep in your own room, at all events,” rejoined Kneebone.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Very well,” said Rachel, with a toss of her pretty head, “very well. I'll
-have a peep at him, if I die for it,” she muttered, as she went out.
-</p>
-<p>
-Mr. Kneebone, then, sat down to await the arrival of his expected guest.
-Half an hour passed, but Jack did not make his appearance. The
-woollen-draper looked at his watch. It was eleven o'clock. Another long
-interval elapsed. The watch was again consulted. It was now a quarter past
-twelve. Mr. Kneebone, who began to feel sleepy, wound it up, and snuffed
-the candles.
-</p>
-<p>
-“I suspect our friend has thought better of it, and won't come,” he
-remarked.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Have a little patience, Sir,” rejoined the jailer.
-</p>
-<p>
-“How are you off there, Shoplatch?” inquired Kneebone. “Rather cramped,
-eh?”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Rather so, Sir,” replied the other, altering his position. “I shall be
-able to stretch my limbs presently—ha! ha!”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Hush!” cried Kneebone, “I hear a noise without. He's coming.”
- </p>
-<p>
-The caution was scarcely uttered, when the door opened, and Jack Sheppard
-presented himself. He was wrapped in a laced roquelaure, which he threw
-off on his entrance into the room. It has been already intimated that Jack
-had an excessive passion for finery; and it might have been added, that
-the chief part of his ill-gotten gains was devoted to the embellishment of
-his person. On the present occasion, he appeared to have bestowed more
-than ordinary attention on his toilette. His apparel was sumptuous in the
-extreme, and such as was only worn by persons of the highest distinction.
-It consisted of a full-dress coat of brown flowered velvet, laced with
-silver; a waistcoat of white satin, likewise richly embroidered; shoes
-with red heels, and large diamond buckles; pearl-coloured silk stockings
-with gold clocks; a muslin cravat, or steen-kirk, as it was termed, edged
-with the fine point lace; ruffles of the same material, and so ample as
-almost to hide the tips of his fingers; and a silver-hilted sword. This
-costume, though somewhat extravagant, displayed his slight, but
-perfectly-proportioned figure to the greatest advantage. The only
-departure which he made from the fashion of the period, was in respect to
-the peruke—an article he could never be induced to wear. In lieu of
-it, he still adhered to the sleek black crop, which, throughout life,
-formed a distinguishing feature in his appearance. Ever since the
-discovery of his relationship to the Trenchard family, a marked change had
-taken place in Jack's demeanour and looks, which were so much refined and
-improved that he could scarcely be recognised as the same person. Having
-only seen him in the gloom of a dungeon, and loaded with fetters, Kneebone
-had not noticed this alteration: but he was now greatly struck by it.
-Advancing towards him, he made him a formal salutation, which was coldly
-returned.
-</p>
-<p>
-“I am expected, I find,” observed Jack, glancing at the well-covered
-board.
-</p>
-<p>
-“You are,” replied Kneebone. “When I heard of your escape, I felt sure I
-should see you.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“You judged rightly,” rejoined Jack; “I never yet broke an engagement with
-friend or foe—and never will.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“A bold resolution,” said the woollen-draper. “You must have made some
-exertion to keep your present appointment. Few men could have done as
-much.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Perhaps not,” replied Jack, carelessly. “I would have done more, if
-necessary.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Well, take a chair,” rejoined Kneebone. “I've waited supper, you
-perceive.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“First, let me introduce my friends,” returned Jack, stepping to the door.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Friends!” echoed Kneebone, with a look of dismay. “My invitation did not
-extend to them.”
- </p>
-<p>
-Further remonstrance, however, was cut short by the sudden entrance of
-Mrs. Maggot and Edgeworth Bess. Behind them stalked Blueskin, enveloped in
-a rough great-coat, called—appropriately enough in this instance,—a
-wrap-rascal. Folding his arms, he placed his back against the door, and
-burst into a loud laugh. The ladies were, as usual, very gaily dressed;
-and as usual, also, had resorted to art to heighten their attractions—
-</p>
-<pre xml:space="preserve">
-From patches, justly placed, they borrow'd graces,
-And with vermilion lacquer'd o'er their faces.
-</pre>
-<p>
-Edgeworth Bess wore a scarlet tabby negligée,—a sort of undress, or
-sack, then much in vogue,—which suited her to admiration, and upon
-her head had what was called a fly-cap, with richly-laced lappets. Mrs.
-Maggot was equipped in a light blue riding-habit, trimmed with silver, a
-hunting-cap and a flaxen peruke, and, instead of a whip, carried a stout
-cudgel.
-</p>
-<p>
-For a moment, Kneebone had hesitated about giving the signal to Shotbolt,
-but, thinking a more favourable opportunity might occur, he determined not
-to hazard matters by undue precipitation. Placing chairs, therefore, he
-invited the ladies to be seated, and, paying a similar attention to Jack,
-began to help to the various dishes, and otherwise fulfil the duties of a
-host. While this was going on, Blueskin, seeing no notice whatever taken
-of him, coughed loudly and repeatedly. But finding his hints totally
-disregarded, he, at length, swaggered up to the table, and thrust in a
-chair.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Excuse me,” he said, plunging his fork into a fowl, and transferring it
-to his plate. “This tongue looks remarkably nice,” he added, slicing off
-an immense wedge, “excuse me—ho! ho!”
- </p>
-<p>
-“You make yourself at home, I perceive,” observed Kneebone, with a look of
-ineffable disgust.
-</p>
-<p>
-“I generally do,” replied Blueskin, pouring out a bumper of sack. “Your
-health, Kneebone.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Allow me to offer you a glass of usquebaugh, my dear,” said Kneebone,
-turning from him, and regarding Edgeworth Bess with a stare so
-impertinent, that even that not over-delicate young lady summoned up a
-blush.
-</p>
-<p>
-“With pleasure, Sir,” replied Edgeworth Bess. “Dear me!” she added, as she
-pledged the amorous woollen-draper, “what a beautiful ring that is.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Do you think so?” replied Kneebone, taking it off, and placing it on her
-finger, which he took the opportunity of kissing at the same time; “wear
-it for my sake.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Oh, dear!” simpered Edgeworth Bess, endeavouring to hide her confusion by
-looking steadfastly at her plate.
-</p>
-<p>
-“You don't eat,” continued Kneebone, addressing Jack, who had remained for
-some time thoughtful, and pre-occupied with his head upon his hand.
-</p>
-<p>
-“The Captain has seldom much appetite,” replied Blueskin, who, having
-disposed of the fowl, was commencing a vigorous attack upon the sirloin.
-“I eat for both.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“So it seems,” observed the woollen-draper, “and for every one else, too.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“I say, Kneebone,” rejoined Blueskin, as he washed down an immense
-mouthful with another bumper, “do you recollect how nearly Mr. Wild and I
-were nabbing you in this very room, some nine years ago?”
- </p>
-<p>
-“I do,” replied Kneebone; “and now,” he added, aside, “the case is
-altered. I'm nearly nabbing <i>you</i>.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“A good deal has occurred since then, eh, Captain!” said Blueskin, nudging
-Jack.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Much that I would willingly forget. Nothing that I desire to remember,”
- replied Sheppard, sternly. “On that night,—in this room,—in
-your presence, Blueskin,—in yours Mr. Kneebone, Mrs. Wood struck me
-a blow which made me a robber.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“She has paid dearly for it,” muttered Blueskin.
-</p>
-<p>
-“She has,” rejoined Sheppard. “But I wish her hand had been as deadly as
-yours. On that night,—that fatal night,—Winifred crushed all
-the hopes that were rising in my heart. On that night, I surrendered
-myself to Jonathan Wild, and became—what I am.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“On that night, you first met me, love,” said Edgeworth Bess, endeavouring
-to take his hand, which he coldly withdrew.
-</p>
-<p>
-“And me,” added Mrs. Maggot tenderly.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Would I had never seen either of you!” cried Jack, rising and pacing the
-apartment with a hurried step.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Well, I'm sure Winifred could never have loved you as well as I do,” said
-Mrs. Maggot.
-</p>
-<p>
-“<i>You</i>!” cried Jack, scornfully. “Do you compare <i>your</i> love—a
-love which all may purchase—with <i>hers</i>? No one has ever loved
-me.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Except me, dear,” insinuated Edgeworth Bess. “I've been always true to
-you.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Peace!” retorted Jack, with increased bitterness. “I'm your dupe no
-longer.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“What the devil's in the wind now, Captain?” cried Blueskin, in
-astonishment.
-</p>
-<p>
-“I'll tell you,” replied Jack, with forced calmness. “Within the last few
-minutes, all my guilty life has passed before me. Nine years ago, I was
-honest—was happy. Nine years ago, I worked in this very house—had
-a kind indulgent master, whom I robbed—twice robbed, at your
-instigation, villain; a mistress, whom you have murdered; a companion,
-whose friendship I have for ever forfeited; a mother, whose heart I have
-well-nigh broken. In this room was my ruin begun: in this room it should
-be ended.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Come, come, don't take on thus, Captain,” cried Blueskin, rising and
-walking towards him. “If any one's to blame, it's me. I'm ready to bear it
-all.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Can you make me honest?” cried Jack. “Can you make me other than a
-condemned felon? Can you make me not Jack Sheppard?”
- </p>
-<p>
-“No,” replied Blueskin; “and I wouldn't if I could.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Curse you!” cried Jack, furiously,—“curse you!—curse you!”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Swear away, Captain,” rejoined Blueskin, coolly. “It'll ease your mind.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Do you mock me?” cried Jack, levelling a pistol at him.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Not I,” replied Blueskin. “Take my life, if you're so disposed. You're
-welcome to it. And let's see if either of these women, who prate of their
-love for you, will do as much.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“This is folly,” cried Jack, controlling himself by a powerful effort.
-</p>
-<p>
-“The worst of folly,” replied Blueskin, returning to the table, and taking
-up a glass; “and, to put an end to it, I shall drink the health of Jack
-Sheppard, the housebreaker, and success to him in all his enterprises. And
-now, let's see who'll refuse the pledge.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“<i>I</i> will,” replied Sheppard, dashing the glass from his hand. “Sit
-down, fool!”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Jack,” said Kneebone, who had been considerably interested by the
-foregoing scene, “are these regrets for your past life sincere?”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Suppose them so,” rejoined Jack, “what then?”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Nothing—nothing,” stammered Kneebone, his prudence getting the
-better of his sympathy. “I'm glad to hear it, that's all,” he added,
-taking out his snuff-box, his never-failing resource in such emergencies.
-“It won't do to betray the officer,” he muttered.
-</p>
-<p>
-“O lud! what an exquisite box!” cried Edgeworth Bess. “Is it gold?”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Pure gold,” replied Kneebone. “It was given me by poor dear Mrs. Wood,
-whose loss I shall ever deplore.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Pray, let me have a pinch!” said Edgeworth Bess, with a captivating
-glance. “I am so excessively fond of snuff.”
- </p>
-<p>
-The woollen-draper replied by gallantly handing her the box, which was
-instantly snatched from her by Blueskin, who, after helping himself to as
-much of its contents as he could conveniently squeeze between his thumb
-and finger, put it very coolly in his pocket.
-</p>
-<p>
-The action did not pass unnoticed by Sheppard.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Restore it,” he cried, in an authoritative voice.
-</p>
-<p>
-“O'ons! Captain,” cried Blueskin, as he grumblingly obeyed the command;
-“if you've left off business yourself, you needn't interfere with other
-people.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“I should like a little of that plum-tart,” said Mrs. Maggot; “but I don't
-see a spoon.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“I'll ring for one,” replied Kneebone, rising accordingly; “but I fear my
-servants are gone to bed.”
- </p>
-<p>
-Blueskin, meanwhile, having drained and replenished his glass, commenced
-chaunting a snatch of a ballad:—
-</p>
-<pre xml:space="preserve">
-Once on a time, as I've heard tell.
-In Wych Street Owen Wood did dwell;
-A carpenter he was by trade,
-And money, I believe, he made.
-<i>With his foodle doo</i>!
-
-This carpenter he had a wife,
-The plague and torment of his life,
-Who, though she did her husband scold,
-Loved well a woollen-draper bold.
-<i>With her foodle doo</i>!
-</pre>
-<p>
-“I've a toast to propose,” cried Sheppard, filling a bumper. “You won't
-refuse it, Mr. Kneebone?”
- </p>
-<p>
-“He'd better not,” muttered Blueskin.
-</p>
-<p>
-“What is it?” demanded the woollen-draper, as he returned to the table,
-and took up a glass.
-</p>
-<p>
-“The speedy union of Thames Darrell with Winifred Wood,” replied Jack.
-</p>
-<p>
-Kneebone's cheeks glowed with rage, and he set down the wine untasted,
-while Blueskin resumed his song.
-</p>
-<pre xml:space="preserve">
-Now Owen Wood had one fair child,
-Unlike her mother, meek and mild;
-Her love the draper strove to gain,
-But she repaid him with disdain.
-<i>With his foodle doo</i>!
-</pre>
-<p>
-“Peace!” cried Jack.
-</p>
-<p>
-But Blueskin was not to be silenced. He continued his ditty, in spite of
-the angry glances of his leader.
-</p>
-<pre xml:space="preserve">
-In vain he fondly urged his suit,
-And, all in vain, the question put;
-She answered,—“Mr. William Kneebone,
-Of me, Sir, you shall never be bone.”
- <i>With your foodle doo</i>!
-
-“Thames Darrell has my heart alone,
-A noble youth, e'en <i>you</i> must own;
-And, if from him my love could stir,
-Jack Sheppard I should much prefer!”
- <i>With his foodle doo</i>!
-</pre>
-<p>
-“Do you refuse my toast?” cried Jack, impatiently.
-</p>
-<p>
-“I do,” replied Kneebone.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Drink this, then,” roared Blueskin. And pouring the contents of a small
-powder-flask into a bumper of brandy, he tendered him the mixture.
-</p>
-<p>
-At this juncture, the door was opened by Rachel.
-</p>
-<p>
-“What did you ring for, Sir?” she asked, eyeing the group with
-astonishment.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Your master wants a few table-spoons, child,” said Mrs. Maggot.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Leave the room,” interposed Kneebone, angrily.
-</p>
-<p>
-“No, I shan't,” replied Rachel, saucily. “I came to see Jack Sheppard, and
-I won't go till you point him out to me. You told me he was going back to
-Newgate after supper, so I mayn't have another opportunity.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Oh! he told you that, did he?” said Blueskin, marching up to her, and
-chucking her under the chin. “I'll show you Captain Sheppard, my dear.
-There he stands. I'm his lieutenant,—Lieutenant Blueskin. We're two
-good-looking fellows, ain't we?”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Very good-looking,” replied Rachel. “But, where's the strange gentleman I
-saw under the table?”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Under the table!” echoed Blueskin, winking at Jack. “When did you see
-him, my love?”
- </p>
-<p>
-“A short time ago,” replied the housekeeper, unsuspiciously.
-</p>
-<p>
-“The plot's out!” cried Jack. And, without another word, he seized the
-table with both hands, and upset it; scattering plates, dishes, bottles,
-jugs, and glasses far and wide. The crash was tremendous. The lights
-rolled over, and were extinguished. And, if Rachel had not carried a
-candle, the room would have been plunged in total darkness. Amid the
-confusion, Shotbolt sprang to his feet, and levelling a pistol at Jack's
-head, commanded him to surrender; but, before any reply could be made, the
-jailer's arm was struck up by Blueskin, who, throwing himself upon him,
-dragged him to the ground. In the struggle the pistol went off, but
-without damage to either party. The conflict was of short duration; for
-Shotbolt was no match for his athletic antagonist. He was speedily
-disarmed; and the rope and gag being found upon him, were exultingly
-turned against him by his conqueror, who, after pinioning his arms tightly
-behind his back, forced open his mouth with the iron, and effectually
-prevented the utterance of any further outcries. While the strife was
-raging, Edgeworth Bess walked up to Rachel, and advised her, if she valued
-her life, not to scream or stir from the spot; a caution which the
-housekeeper, whose curiosity far outweighed her fears, received in very
-good part.
-</p>
-<p>
-In the interim, Jack advanced to the woollen-draper, and regarding him
-sternly, thus addressed him:
-</p>
-<p>
-“You have violated the laws of hospitality, Mr. Kneebone, I came hither as
-your guest. You have betrayed me.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“What faith is to be kept with a felon?” replied the woollen-draper,
-disdainfully.
-</p>
-<p>
-“He who breaks faith with his benefactor may well justify himself thus,”
- answered Jack. “I have not trusted you. Others who have done, have found
-you false.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“I don't understand you,” replied Kneebone, in some confusion.
-</p>
-<p>
-“You soon shall,” rejoined Sheppard. “Where are the packets committed to
-your charge by Sir Rowland Trenchard?”
- </p>
-<p>
-“The packets!” exclaimed Kneebone, in alarm.
-</p>
-<p>
-“It is useless to deny it,” replied Jack. “You were watched to-night by
-Blueskin. You met Sir Rowland at the house of a Romisch priest, Father
-Spencer. Two packets were committed to your charge, which you undertook to
-deliver,—one to another priest, Sir Rowland's chaplain, at
-Manchester, the other to Mr. Wood. Produce them!”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Never!” replied Kneebone.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Then, by Heaven! you are a dead man!” replied Jack, cocking a pistol, and
-pointing it deliberately at his head. “I give you one minute for
-reflection. After that time nothing shall save you.”
- </p>
-<p>
-There was a brief, breathless pause. Even Blueskin looked on with anxiety.
-</p>
-<p>
-“It is past,” said Jack, placing his finger on the trigger.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Hold!” cried Kneebone, flinging down the packets; “they are nothing to
-me.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“But they are everything to me,” cried Jack, stooping to pick them up.
-“These packets will establish Thames Darrell's birth, win him his
-inheritance, and procure him the hand of Winifred Wood.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Don't be too sure of that,” rejoined Kneebone, snatching up the staff,
-and aiming a blow at his head, which was fortunately warded off by Mrs.
-Maggot, who promptly interposed her cudgel.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Defend yourself!” cried Jack, drawing his sword.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Leave his punishment to me, Jack,” said Mrs. Maggot. “I've the Bridewell
-account to settle.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Be it so,” replied Jack, putting up his blade. “I've a good deal to do.
-Show him no quarter, Poll. He deserves none.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“And shall find none,” replied the Amazon. “Now, Mr. Kneebone,” she added,
-drawing up her magnificent figure to its full height, and making the heavy
-cudgel whistle through the air, “look to yourself.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Stand off, Poll,” rejoined the woollen-draper; “I don't want to hurt you.
-It shall never be said that I raised my arm willingly against a woman.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“I'll forgive you all the harm you do me,” rejoined the Amazon. “What! you
-still hesitate! Will that rouse you, coward?” And she gave him a smart rap
-on the head.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Coward!” cried Kneebone. “Neither man nor woman shall apply that term to
-me. If you forget your sex, jade, I must forget mine.”
- </p>
-<p>
-With this, he attacked her vigorously in his turn.
-</p>
-<p>
-It was a curious sight to see how this extraordinary woman, who, it has
-been said, was not less remarkable for the extreme delicacy of her
-features, and the faultless symmetry of her figure, than for her wonderful
-strength and agility, conducted herself in the present encounter; with
-what dexterity she parried every blow aimed against her by her adversary,
-whose head and face, already marked by various ruddy streams, showed how
-successfully her own hits had been made;—how she drew him hither and
-thither, now leading him on, now driving him suddenly back; harassing and
-exhausting him in every possible way, and making it apparent that she
-could at any moment put an end to the fight, and only delayed the
-finishing stroke to make his punishment the more severe.
-</p>
-<p>
-Jack, meanwhile, with Blueskin's assistance, had set the table once more
-upon its legs, and placing writing materials, which he took from a shelf,
-upon it, made Shotbolt, who was still gagged, but whose arms were for the
-moment unbound, sit down before them.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Write as I dictate,” he cried, placing a pen in the jailer's hand and a
-pistol to his ear.
-</p>
-<p>
-Shotbolt nodded in token of acquiescence, and emitted an odd guttural
-sound.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Write as follows,” continued Jack. “'I have succeeded in capturing Jack
-Sheppard. The reward is mine. Get all ready for his reception. In a few
-minutes after the delivery of this note he will be in Newgate.' Sign it,”
- he added, as, after some further threats, the letter was indited according
-to his dictation, “and direct it to Mr. Austin. That's well. And, now, to
-find a messenger.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Mr. Kneebone's man is in the shop,” said Rachel; “he'll take it.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Can I trust him?” mused Jack. “Yes; he'll suspect nothing. Give him this
-letter, child, and bid him take it to the Lodge at Newgate without loss of
-time. Blueskin will go with you,—for fear of a mistake.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“You might trust me,” said Rachel, in an offended tone; “but never mind.”
- </p>
-<p>
-And she left the room with Blueskin, who very politely offered her his
-arm.
-</p>
-<p>
-Meanwhile, the combat between Kneebone and Mrs. Maggot had been brought to
-a termination. When the woollen-draper was nearly worn out, the Amazon
-watched her opportunity, and hitting him on the arm, disabled it.
-</p>
-<p>
-“That's for Mrs. Wood,” she cried, as the staff fell from his grasp.
-</p>
-<p>
-“I'm at your mercy, Poll,” rejoined Kneebone, abjectly.
-</p>
-<p>
-“That's for Winifred,” vociferated the Amazon, bringing the cudgel heavily
-upon his shoulder.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Damnation!” cried Kneebone.
-</p>
-<p>
-“That's for myself,” rejoined Mrs. Maggot, dealing him a blow, which
-stretched him senseless on the floor.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Bravo, Poll!” cried Jack, who having again pinioned Shotbolt, was now
-tracing a few hasty lines on a sheet of paper. “You've given him a broken
-head, I perceive.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“He'll scarcely need a plaister,” replied Mrs. Maggot, laughing. “Here,
-Bess, give me the cord, and I'll tie him to this chest of drawers. I don't
-think he'll come to himself too soon. But it's best to be on the safe
-side.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Decidedly so,” replied Edgeworth Bess; “and I'll take this opportunity,
-while Jack's back is turned,—for he's grown so strangely particular,—of
-easing him of his snuff-box. Perhaps,” she added, in a whisper, as she
-appropriated the before-named article, “he has a pocket-book.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Hush!” replied Mrs. Maggot; “Jack will hear you. We'll come back for that
-by and by, and the dressing-gown.”
- </p>
-<p>
-At this moment, Rachel and Blueskin returned. Their momentary absence
-seemed to have worked wonders; for now the most perfect understanding
-appeared to subsist between them.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Have you sent off the note?” inquired Jack.
-</p>
-<p>
-“We have, Captain,” replied Blueskin. “I say <i>we</i>, because Miss
-Rachel and I have struck up a match. Shall I bring off anything?” he
-added, looking eagerly round.
-</p>
-<p>
-“No,” replied Jack, peremptorily.
-</p>
-<p>
-Having now sealed his letter, Sheppard took a handkerchief, and tying it
-over Shotbolt's face, so as completely to conceal the features, clapped
-his hat upon his head, and pushed it over his brows. He, next, seized the
-unlucky jailer, and forced him along, while Blueskin expedited his
-movements by administering a few kicks behind.
-</p>
-<p>
-When they got to the door, Jack opened it, and, mimicking the voice of the
-jailer, shouted, “Now, my lads, all's ready?”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Here we are,” cried the chairmen, hurrying out of the court with their
-swinging vehicle, “where is he?”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Here,” replied Sheppard, dragging out Shotbolt by the collar, while
-Blueskin pushed him behind, and Mrs. Maggot held up a lantern, which she
-found in the shop. “In with him!”
- </p>
-<p>
-<br /><br />
-</p>
-<hr />
-<p>
-<a name="linkimage-0004" id="linkimage-0004"> </a>
-</p>
-<div class="fig" style="width:35%;">
-<img src="images/104s.jpg" alt="104s " width="100%" /><br />
-</div>
-<h4>
-<a href="images/104.jpg"><i>Original Size</i></a> -- <a
-href="images/104m.jpg"><i>Medium-Size</i></a>
-</h4>
-<p>
-“Ay—ay, yer hon'r,” cried the foremost chairman, lending a helping
-hand. “Get in wid ye, ye villin!”
- </p>
-<p>
-And, despite his resistance, Shotbolt was thrust into the chair, which was
-instantly fastened upon him.
-</p>
-<p>
-“There, he's as safe as Jack Sheppard in the Condemned Hould,” laughed the
-man.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Off with you to Newgate!” cried Jack, “and don't let him out till you get
-inside the Lodge. There's a letter for the head turnkey, Mr. Irreton. D'ye
-hear.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Yes, yer hon'r,” replied the chairman, taking the note.
-</p>
-<p>
-“What are you waiting for?” asked Jack, impatiently.
-</p>
-<p>
-“The gen'l'man as hired us,” replied the chairman.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Oh! he'll be after you directly. He's settling an account in the house.
-Lose no time. The letter will explain all.”
- </p>
-<p>
-The chair was then rapidly put in motion, and speedily disappeared.
-</p>
-<p>
-“What's to be done next?” cried Blueskin, returning to Rachel, who was
-standing with Edgeworth Bess near the door.
-</p>
-<p>
-“I shall go back and finish my supper,” said Mrs. Maggot.
-</p>
-<p>
-“And so shall I,” replied Edgeworth Bess.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Stop a minute,” cried Jack, detaining his mistresses. “Here we part,—perhaps
-for ever. I've already told you I'm about to take a long journey, and it's
-more than probable I shall never return.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Don't say so,” cried Mrs. Maggot. “I should be perfectly miserable if <i>I</i>
-thought you in earnest.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“The very idea is dreadful,” whimpered Edgeworth Bess.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Farewell!” cried Jack, embracing them. “Take this key to Baptist
-Kettleby. On seeing it, he'll deliver you a box, which it will unlock, and
-in which you'll find a matter of fifty guineas and a few trinkets. Divide
-the money between you, and wear the ornaments for my sake. But, if you've
-a spark of love for me, don't meddle with anything in that house.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Not for worlds!” exclaimed both ladies together.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Farewell!” cried Jack, breaking from them, and rushing down the street.
-</p>
-<p>
-“What shall we do, Poll?” hesitated Edgeworth Bess.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Go in, to be sure, simpleton,” replied Mrs. Maggot, “and bring off all we
-can. I know where everything valuable is kept. Since Jack has left us,
-what does it matter whether he's pleased or not?”
- </p>
-<p>
-At this moment, a whistle was heard.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Coming!” cried Blueskin, who was still lingering with Rachel. “The
-Captain's in such a desperate hurry, that there's no time for love-making.
-Adieu! my charmer. You'll find those young ladies extremely agreeable
-acquaintances. Adieu!”
- </p>
-<p>
-And, snatching a hasty kiss, he darted after Jack.
-</p>
-<p>
-The chair, meanwhile, with its unhappy load, was transported at a brisk
-pace to Newgate. Arrived there, the porter thundered at the massive door
-of the Lodge, which was instantly opened—Shotbolt's note having been
-received just before. All the turnkeys were assembled. Ireton and Langley
-had returned from a second unsuccessful search; Marvel had come thither to
-bid good-night to Mrs. Spurling; Austin had never quitted his post. The
-tapstress was full of curiosity; but she appeared more easy than the
-others. Behind her stood Caliban, chuckling to himself, and grinning from
-ear to ear.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Well, who'd have thought of Shotbolt beating us all in this way!” said
-Ireton. “I'm sorry for old Newgate that another jail should have it. It's
-infernally provoking.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Infernally provoking!” echoed Langley.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Nobody has so much cause for complaint as me,” growled Austin. “I've lost
-my wager.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Twenty pounds,” rejoined Mrs. Spurling. “I witnessed the bet.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Here he is!” cried Ireton, as the knocking was heard without. “Get ready
-the irons, Caliban.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Wait a bit, massa,” replied the grinning negro,—“lilly bit—see
-all right fust.”
- </p>
-<p>
-By this time, the chair had been brought into the Lodge.
-</p>
-<p>
-“You've got him?” demanded Ireton.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Safe inside,” replied the chairman, wiping the heat from his brow; “we've
-run all the way.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Where's Mr. Shotbolt?” asked Austin.
-</p>
-<p>
-“The gen'l'man'll be here directly. He was detained. T' other gen'l'man
-said the letter 'ud explain all.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Detained!” echoed Marvel. “That's odd. But, let's see the prisoner.”
- </p>
-<p>
-The chair was then opened.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Shotbolt! by—” cried Austin, as the captive was dragged forth.
-“I've won, after all.”
- </p>
-<p>
-Exclamations of wonder burst from all. Mrs. Spurling bit her lips to
-conceal her mirth. Caliban absolutely crowed with delight.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Hear the letter,” said Ireton, breaking the seal. “'<i>This is the way in
-which I will serve all who attempt to apprehend me</i>.' It is signed JACK
-SHEPPARD.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“And, so Jack Sheppard has sent back Shotbolt in this pickle,” said
-Langley.
-</p>
-<p>
-“So it appears,” replied Marvel. “Untie his arms, and take off that
-handkerchief. The poor fellow's half smothered.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“I guess what share you've had in this,” whispered Austin to Mrs.
-Spurling.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Never mind,” replied the tapstress. “You've won your wager.”
- </p>
-<p>
-Half an hour after this occurrence, when it had been sufficiently laughed
-at and discussed; when the wager had been settled, and the chairman
-dismissed with the remaining three guineas, which Shotbolt was compelled
-to pay; Ireton arose, and signified his intention of stepping across the
-street to inform Mr. Wild of the circumstance.
-</p>
-<p>
-“As it's getting late, and the porter may be gone to bed,” he observed;
-“I'll take the pass-key, and let myself in. Mr. Wild is sure to be up. He
-never retires to rest till daybreak—if at all. Come with me,
-Langley, and bring the lantern.”
- </p>
-<p>
-<br /><br />
-</p>
-<hr />
-<p>
-<a name="link2HCH0004" id="link2HCH0004"> </a>
-</p>
-<div style="height: 4em;">
-<br /><br /><br /><br />
-</div>
-<h2>
-CHAPTER XIV. HOW JACK SHEPPARD WAS AGAIN CAPTURED.
-</h2>
-<p class="pfirst"><span class="dropcap" style="font-size: 4.00em">J</span>ack Sheppard, after whistling to Blueskin, hurried down a short
-thoroughfare leading from Wych Street to the back of Saint Clement's
-Church, where he found Thames Darrell, who advanced to meet him.
-</p>
-<p>
-“I was just going,” said Thames. “When I parted from you at Mr. Kneebone's
-door, you begged me to await your return here, assuring me you would not
-detain me five minutes. Instead of which, more than half an hour has
-elapsed.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“You won't complain of the delay when I tell you what I've done,” answered
-Jack. “I've obtained two packets, containing letters from Sir Rowland
-Trenchard, which I've no doubt will establish your title to the estates.
-Take them, and may they prove as serviceable to you as I desire.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Jack,” replied Thames, greatly moved, “I wish I could devise any means of
-brightening your own dark prospects.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“That's impossible,” replied Jack. “I am utterly lost.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Not utterly,” rejoined the other.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Utterly,” reiterated Jack, gloomily,—“as regards all I hold dear.
-Listen to me, Thames. I'm about to leave this country for ever. Having
-ascertained that a vessel sails for France from the river at daybreak
-to-morrow morning, I have secured a passage in her, and have already had
-the few effects I possess, conveyed on board. Blueskin goes with me. The
-faithful fellow will never leave me.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Never, while I've breath in my body, Captain,” rejoined Blueskin, who had
-joined them. “England or France, London or Paris, it's all one to me, so
-I've you to command me.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Stand out of earshot,” rejoined his leader. “I'll call you when you're
-wanted.”
- </p>
-<p>
-And Blueskin withdrew.
-</p>
-<p>
-“I cannot but approve the course you are about to take, Jack,” said
-Thames, “though on some accounts I regret it. In after years you can
-return to your own country—to your friends.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Never,” replied Sheppard bitterly. “My friends need not fear my return.
-They shall hear of me no more. Under another name,—not my own
-hateful one,—I will strive to distinguish myself in some foreign
-service, and win myself a reputation, or perish honourably. But I will
-never—never return.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“I will not attempt to combat your resolution, Jack,” returned Thames,
-after a pause. “But I dread the effect your departure may have upon your
-poor mother. Her life hangs upon a thread, and this may snap it.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“I wish you hadn't mentioned her,” said Jack, in a broken voice, while his
-whole frame shook with emotion. “What I do is for the best, and I can only
-hope she may have strength to bear the separation. You must say farewell
-to her, for I cannot. I don't ask you to supply my place—for that
-is, perhaps, impossible. But, be like a son to her.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Do not doubt me,” replied Thames, warmly pressing his hand.
-</p>
-<p>
-“And now, I've one further request,” faltered Jack; “though I scarcely
-know how to make it. It is to set me right with Winifred. Do not let her
-think worse of me than I deserve,—or even so ill. Tell her, that
-more than once, when about to commit some desperate offence, I have been
-restrained by her gentle image. If hopeless love for her made me a robber,
-it has also saved me many a crime. Will you tell her that?”
- </p>
-<p>
-“I will,” replied Thames, earnestly.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Enough,” said Jack, recovering his composure. “And now, to your own
-concerns. Blueskin, who has been on the watch all night, has dogged Sir
-Rowland Trenchard to Jonathan Wild's house; and, from the mysterious
-manner in which he was admitted by the thief-taker's confidential servant,
-Abraham Mendez, and not by the regular porter, there is little doubt but
-they are alone, and probably making some arrangements prior to our uncle's
-departure from England.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Is he leaving England?” demanded Thames, in astonishment.
-</p>
-<p>
-“He sails to-morrow morning in the very vessel by which I start,” replied
-Jack. “Now, if as I suspect,—from the documents just placed in your
-possession,—Sir Rowland meditates doing you justice after his
-departure, it is possible his intentions may be frustrated by the
-machinations of Wild, whose interest is obviously to prevent such an
-occurrence, unless we can surprise them together, and, by proving to Sir
-Rowland that we possess the power of compelling a restitution of your
-rights, force the other treacherous villain into compliance. Jonathan, in
-all probability, knows nothing of these packets; and their production may
-serve to intimidate him. Will you venture?”
- </p>
-<p>
-“It is a hazardous experiment,” said Thames, after a moment's reflection;
-“but I will make it. You must not, however, accompany me, Jack. The risk I
-run is nothing to yours.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“I care for no risk, provided I can serve you,” rejoined Sheppard.
-“Besides, you'll not be able to get in without me. It won't do to knock at
-the door, and Jonathan Wild's house is not quite so easy of entrance as
-Mr. Wood's.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“I understand,” replied Thames; “be it as you will.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Then, we'll lose no more time,” returned Jack. “Come along, Blueskin.”
- </p>
-<p>
-Starting at a rapid pace in the direction of the Old Bailey, and crossing
-Fleet Bridge, “for oyster tubs renowned,” the trio skirted the right bank
-of the muddy stream until they reached Fleet Lane, up which they hurried.
-Turning off again on the left, down Seacoal Lane, they arrived at the
-mouth of a dark, narrow alley, into which they plunged; and, at the
-farther extremity found a small yard, overlooked by the blank walls of a
-large gloomy habitation. A door in this house opened upon the yard. Jack
-tried it, and found it locked.
-</p>
-<p>
-“If I had my old tools with me, we'd soon master this obstacle,” he
-muttered. “We shall be obliged to force it.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Try the cellar, Captain,” said Blueskin, stamping upon a large board in
-the ground. “Here's the door. This is the way the old thief brings in all
-his heavy plunder, which he stows in out-of-the-way holes in his infernal
-dwelling. I've seen him often do it.”
- </p>
-<p>
-While making these remarks, Blueskin contrived, by means of a chisel which
-he chanced to have about him, to lift up the board, and, introducing his
-fingers beneath it, with Jack's assistance speedily opened it altogether,
-disclosing a dark hole, into which he leapt.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Follow me, Thames,” cried Jack, dropping into the chasm.
-</p>
-<p>
-They were now in a sort of cellar, at one end of which was a door. It was
-fastened inside. But, taking the chisel from Blueskin, Jack quickly forced
-back the bolt.
-</p>
-<p>
-As they entered the room beyond, a fierce growl was heard.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Let me go first,” said Blueskin; “the dogs know me. Soho! boys.” And,
-walking up to the animals, which were chained to the wall, they instantly
-recognised him, and suffered the others to pass without barking.
-</p>
-<p>
-Groping their way through one or two dark and mouldy-smelling vaults, the
-party ascended a flight of steps, which brought them to the hall. As Jack
-conjectured, no one was there, and, though a lamp was burning on a stand,
-they decided upon proceeding without it. They then swiftly mounted the
-stairs, and stopped before the audience-chamber. Applying his ear to the
-keyhole, Jack listened, but could detect no sound. He, next cautiously
-tried the door, but found it fastened inside.
-</p>
-<p>
-“I fear we're too late,” he whispered to Thames. “But, we'll soon see.
-Give me the chisel, Blueskin.” And, dexterously applying the implement, he
-forced open the lock.
-</p>
-<p>
-They then entered the room, which was perfectly dark.
-</p>
-<p>
-“This is strange,” said Jack, under his breath. “Sir Rowland must be gone.
-And, yet, I don't know. The key's in the lock, on the inner side. Be on
-your guard.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“I am so,” replied Thames, who had followed him closely.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Shall I fetch the light, Captain?” whispered Blueskin.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Yes,” replied Jack. “I don't know how it is,” he added in a low voice to
-Thames, as they were left alone, “but I've a strange foreboding of ill. My
-heart fails me. I almost wish we hadn't come.”
- </p>
-<p>
-As he said this, he moved forward a few paces, when, finding his feet
-glued to the ground by some adhesive substance, he stooped to feel what it
-was, but instantly withdrew his hand, with an exclamation of horror.
-</p>
-<p>
-“God in Heaven!” he cried, “the floor is covered with blood. Some foul
-murder has been committed. The light!—the light!”
- </p>
-<p>
-Astounded at his cries, Thames sprang towards him. At this moment,
-Blueskin appeared with the lamp, and revealed a horrible spectacle,—the
-floor deluged with blood,—various articles of furniture upset,—papers
-scattered about,—the murdered man's cloak, trampled upon, and
-smeared with gore,—his hat, crushed and similarly stained,—his
-sword,—the ensanguined cloth,—with several other ghastly
-evidences of the slaughterous deed. Further on, there were impressions of
-bloody footsteps along the floor.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Sir Rowland is murdered!” cried Jack, as soon as he could find a tongue.
-</p>
-<p>
-“It is plain he has been destroyed by his perfidious accomplice,” rejoined
-Thames. “Oh God! how fearfully my father is avenged!”
- </p>
-<p>
-“True,” replied Jack, sternly; “but we have our uncle to avenge. What's
-this?” he added, stooping to pick up a piece of paper lying at his feet—it
-was Jonathan's memorandum. “This is the explanation of the bloody deed.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Here's a pocket-book full of notes, and a heavy bag of gold,” said
-Blueskin, examining the articles on the floor.
-</p>
-<p>
-“The sum which incited the villain to the murder,” replied Jack. “But he
-can't be far off. He must be gone to dispose of the body. We shall have
-him on his return.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“I'll see where these footsteps lead to,” said Blueskin, holding the light
-to the floor. “Here are some more papers, Captain.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Give them to me,” replied Jack. “Ah!” he exclaimed, “a letter, beginning
-'dearest Aliva,'—that's your mother's name, Thames.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Let me see it,” cried Thames, snatching it from him. “It <i>is</i>
-addressed to my mother,” he added, as his eye glanced rapidly over it,
-“and by my father. At length, I shall ascertain my name. Bring the light
-this way—quick! I cannot decipher the signature.”
- </p>
-<p>
-Jack was about to comply with the request, when an unlooked-for
-interruption occurred. Having traced the footsteps to the wall, and
-perceiving no outlet, Blueskin elevated the lamp, and discovered marks of
-bloody fingers on the boards.
-</p>
-<p>
-“He must have gone this way,” muttered Blueskin. “I've often heard of a
-secret door in this room, though I never saw it. It must be somewhere
-hereabouts. Ah!” he exclaimed, as his eye fell upon a small knob in the
-wall, “there's the spring!”
- </p>
-<p>
-He touched it, and the door flew open.
-</p>
-<p>
-The next moment, he was felled to the ground by Jonathan Wild, who sprang
-into the room, followed by Abraham bearing the link. A single glance
-served to show the thief-taker how matters stood. From the slight sounds
-that had reached him in his place of confinement, he was aware that some
-persons had found their way to the scene of slaughter, and in a state of
-the most intense anxiety awaited the result of their investigation,
-prepared for the worst. Hearing the spring touched, he dashed through on
-the instant, and struck down the person who presented himself, with his
-bludgeon. On beholding the intruders, his fears changed to exultation, and
-he uttered a roar of satisfaction as he glared at them, which could only
-be likened to the cry of some savage denizen of the plains.
-</p>
-<p>
-On his appearance, Jack levelled a pistol at his head. But his hand was
-withheld by Thames.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Don't fire,” cried the latter. “It is important not to slay him. He shall
-expiate his offences on the gibbet. You are my prisoner, murderer.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“<i>Your</i> prisoner!” echoed Jonathan, derisively. “You mistake,—you
-are mine. And so is your companion,—the convict Sheppard.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Waste not another word with him, Thames,” cried Jack. “Upon him!”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Yield, villain, or die!” shouted Thames, drawing his sword and springing
-towards him.
-</p>
-<p>
-“There's my answer!” rejoined Wild, hurling the bludgeon at him, with such
-fatal effect, that striking him on the head it brought him instantly to
-the ground.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Ah! traitor!” cried Jack, pulling the trigger of his pistol.
-</p>
-<p>
-Anticipating this, Wild avoided the shot by suddenly, ducking his head. He
-had a narrow escape, however; for, passing within an inch of him, the
-bullet burried itself deeply in the wall.
-</p>
-<p>
-Before he could fire a second shot, Jack had to defend himself from the
-thief-taker, who, with his drawn hanger, furiously assaulted him. Eluding
-the blow, Jack plucked his sword from the scabbard, and a desperate
-conflict began.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Pick up that blade, Nab,” vociferated Wild, finding himself hotly
-pressed, “and stab him. I won't give him a chance.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Cowardly villain!” cried Jack, as the Jew, obeying the orders of his
-principal, snatched up the weapon of the murdered man, and assailed him.
-“But I'll yet disappoint you.”
- </p>
-<p>
-And springing backwards, he darted suddenly through the door.
-</p>
-<p>
-“After him,” cried Wild; “he mustn't escape. Dead or alive, I'll have him.
-Bring the link.”
- </p>
-<p>
-And, followed by Abraham, he rushed out of the room.
-</p>
-<p>
-Just as Jack got half way down the stairs, and Wild and the Jew reached
-the upper landing, the street-door was opened by Langley and Ireton, the
-latter of whom carried a lantern.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Stop him!” shouted Jonathan from the stair-head, “stop him! It's Jack
-Sheppard!”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Give way!” cried Jack fiercely. “I'll cut down him who opposes me.”
- </p>
-<p>
-The head turnkey, in all probability, would have obeyed. But, being pushed
-forward by his subordinate officer, he was compelled to make a stand.
-</p>
-<p>
-“You'd better surrender quietly, Jack,” he cried; “you've no chance.”'
-</p>
-<p>
-Instead of regarding him, Jack glanced over the iron bannisters, and
-measured the distance. But the fall was too great, and he abandoned the
-attempt.
-</p>
-<p>
-“We have him!” cried Jonathan, hurrying down the steps. “He can't escape.”
- </p>
-<p>
-As this was said, Jack turned with the swiftness of thought, and
-shortening his sword, prepared to plunge it into the thief-taker's heart.
-Before he could make the thrust, however, he was seized behind by Ireton,
-who flung himself upon him.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Caught!” shouted the head-turnkey. “I give you joy of the capture, Mr.
-Wild,” he added, as Jonathan came up, and assisted him to secure and
-disarm the prisoner. “I was coming to give you intelligence of a comical
-trick played by this rascal, when I find him here—the last place, I
-own, where I should have expected to find him.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“You've arrived in the very nick of time,” rejoined Jonathan; “and I'll
-take care your services are not overlooked.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Mr. Ireton,” cried Jack, in accents of the most urgent entreaty, “before
-you take me hence, I implore you—if you would further the ends of
-justice—search this house. One of the most barbarous murders ever
-committed has just been perpetrated by the monster Wild. You will find
-proofs of the bloody deed in his room. But go thither at once, I beseech
-you, before he has time to remove them.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Mr. Ireton is welcome to search every room in my house if he pleases,”
- said Jonathan, in a tone of bravado. “As soon as we've conveyed you to
-Newgate, I'll accompany him.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Mr. Ireton will do no such thing,” replied the head-turnkey. “Bless your
-soul! d'ye think I'm to be gammoned by such nonsense. Not I. I'm not quite
-such a greenhorn as Shotbolt, Jack, whatever you may think.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“For mercy's sake go up stairs,” implored Sheppard. “I have not told you
-half. There's a man dying—Captain Darrell. Take me with you. Place a
-pistol at my ear, and shoot me, if I've told you false.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“And, what good would that do?” replied Ireton, sarcastically. “To shoot
-you would be to lose the reward. You act your part capitally, but it won't
-do.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Won't you go?” cried Jack passionately. “Mr. Langley, I appeal to you.
-Murder, I say, has been done! Another murder will be committed if you
-don't prevent it. The blood will rest on your head. Do you hear me, Sir?
-Won't you stir!”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Not a step,” replied Langley, gruffly.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Off with him to Newgate!” cried Jonathan. “Ireton, as you captured him,
-the reward is yours. But I request that a third may be given to Langley.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“It shall be, Sir,” replied Ireton, bowing. “Now come along, Jack.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Miscreants!” cried Sheppard, almost driven frantic by the violence of his
-emotions; “you're all in league with him.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Away with him!” cried Jonathan. “I'll see him fettered myself. Remain at
-the door, Nab,” he added, loitering for a moment behind the others, “and
-let no one in, or out.”
- </p>
-<p>
-Jack, meanwhile, was carried to Newgate. Austin could scarcely credit his
-senses when he beheld him. Shotbolt, who had in some degree recovered from
-the effects of his previous mortification, was thrown into an ecstacy of
-delight, and could not sufficiently exult over the prisoner. Mrs. Spurling
-had retired for the night. Jack appealed to the new auditors, and again
-detailed his story, but with no better success than heretofore. His
-statement was treated with derision. Having seen him heavily ironed, and
-placed in the Condemned Hold, Jonathan recrossed the street.
-</p>
-<p>
-He found Abraham on guard as he had left him.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Has any one been here?” he asked.
-</p>
-<p>
-“No von,” replied the Jew.
-</p>
-<p>
-“That's well,” replied Wild, entering the house, and fastening the door.
-“And now to dispose of our dead. Why, Nab, you shake as if you'd got an
-ague?” he added, turning to the Jew, whose teeth chattered audibly.
-</p>
-<p>
-“I haven't quite recovered the fright I got in the Vell-Hole,” replied
-Abraham.
-</p>
-<p>
-On returning to the audience-chamber, Jonathan found the inanimate body of
-Thames Darrell lying where he had left it; but, on examining it, he
-remarked that the pockets were turned inside out, and had evidently been
-rifled. Startled by this circumstance, he looked around, and perceived
-that the trap-door,—which has been mentioned as communicating with a
-secret staircase,—was open. He, next, discovered that Blueskin was
-gone; and, pursuing his scrutiny, found that he had carried off all the
-banknotes, gold, and letters,—including, what Jonathan himself was
-not aware of,—the two packets which he had abstracted from the
-person of Thames. Uttering a terrible imprecation, Jonathan snatched up
-the link, and hastily descended the stairs, leaving the Jew behind him.
-After a careful search below, he could detect no trace of Blueskin. But,
-finding the cellar-door open, concluded he had got out that way.
-</p>
-<p>
-Returning to the audience-chamber in a by-no-means enviable state of mind,
-he commanded the Jew to throw the body of Thames into the Well Hole.
-</p>
-<p>
-“You musht do dat shob yourself, Mishter Vild,” rejoined Abraham, shaking
-his head. “No prize shall indushe me to enter dat horrid plashe again.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Fool!” cried Wild, taking up the body, “what are you afraid of? After
-all,” he added, pausing, “he may be of more use to me alive than dead.”
- </p>
-<p>
-Adhering to this change of plan, he ordered Abraham to follow him, and,
-descending the secret stairs once more, carried the wounded man into the
-lower part of the premises. Unlocking several doors, he came to a dark
-vault, that would have rivalled the gloomiest cell in Newgate, into which
-he thrust Thames, and fastened the door.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Go to the pump, Nab,” he said, when this was done, “and fill a pail with
-water. We must wash out those stains up stairs, and burn the cloth. Blood,
-they say, won't come out. But I never found any truth in the saying. When
-I've had an hour's rest, I'll be after Blueskin.”
- </p>
-<p>
-<br /><br />
-</p>
-<hr />
-<p>
-<a name="link2HCH0005" id="link2HCH0005"> </a>
-</p>
-<div style="height: 4em;">
-<br /><br /><br /><br />
-</div>
-<h2>
-CHAPTER XV. HOW BLUESKIN UNDERWENT THE PEINE FORTE ET DURE.
-</h2>
-<p class="pfirst"><span class="dropcap" style="font-size: 4.00em">A</span>s soon as it became known, through the medium of the public prints on the
-following day, that Jack Sheppard had broken out of prison, and had been
-again captured during the night, fresh curiosity was excited, and larger
-crowds than ever flocked to Newgate, in the hope of obtaining admission to
-his cell; but by the governor's express commands, Wild having privately
-counselled the step, no one was allowed to see him. A question next arose
-whether the prisoner could be executed under the existing warrant,—some
-inclining to one opinion, some to another. To settle the point, the
-governor started to Windsor, delegating his trust in the interim to Wild,
-who took advantage of his brief rule to adopt the harshest measures
-towards the prisoner. He had him removed from the Condemned Hold, stripped
-of his fine apparel, clothed in the most sordid rags, loaded with
-additional fetters, and thrust into the Stone Hold,—already
-described as the most noisome cell in the whole prison. Here, without a
-glimpse of daylight; visited by no one except Austin at stated intervals,
-who neither answered a question nor addressed a word to him; fed upon the
-worst diet, literally mouldy bread and ditch-water; surrounded by stone
-walls; with a flagged floor for his pillow, and without so much as a
-blanket to protect him from the death-like cold that pierced his frame,—Jack's
-stout heart was subdued, and he fell into the deepest dejection, ardently
-longing for the time when even a violent death should terminate his
-sufferings. But it was not so ordered. Mr. Pitt returned with intelligence
-that the warrant was delayed, and, on taking the opinion of two eminent
-lawyers of the day, Sir William Thomson and Mr. Serjeant Raby, it was
-decided that it must be proved in a regular and judicial manner that
-Sheppard was the identical person who had been convicted and had escaped,
-before a fresh order could be made for his execution; and that the matter
-must, therefore, stand over until the next sessions, to be held at the Old
-Bailey in October, when it could be brought before the court.
-</p>
-<p>
-The unfortunate prisoner, meanwhile, who was not informed of the respite,
-languished in his horrible dungeon, and, at the expiration of three weeks,
-became so seriously indisposed that it was feared he could not long
-survive. He refused his food,—and even when better provisions were
-offered him, rejected them. As his death was by no means what Jonathan
-desired, he resolved to remove him to a more airy ward, and afford him
-such slight comforts as might tend to his restoration, or at least keep
-him alive until the period of execution. With this view, Jack was carried—for
-he was no longer able to move without assistance—to a ward called
-the Castle, situated over the gateway on the western side, in what was
-considered the strongest part of the jail. The walls were of immense
-thickness; the small windows double-grated and unglazed; the fire-place
-was without a grate; and a barrack-bed, divided into two compartments,
-occupied one corner. It was about twelve feet high, nine wide, and
-fourteen long; and was approached by double doors each six inches thick.
-As Jack appeared to be sinking fast, his fetters were removed, his own
-clothes were returned to him, and he was allowed a mattress and a scanty
-supply of bed-linen. Mrs. Spurling attended him as his nurse, and, under
-her care, he speedily revived. As soon as he became convalescent, and all
-fears of his premature dissolution were at an end, Wild recommenced his
-rigorous treatment. The bedding was removed; Mrs. Spurling was no longer
-allowed to visit him; he was again loaded with irons; fastened by an
-enormous horse-padlock to a staple in the floor; and only allowed to take
-repose in a chair. A single blanket constituted his sole covering at
-night. In spite of all this, he grew daily better and stronger, and his
-spirits revived. Hitherto, no visitors had been permitted to see him. As
-the time when his identity had to be proved approached, this rigour was,
-in a trifling degree, relaxed, and a few persons were occasionally
-admitted to the ward, but only in the presence of Austin. From none of
-these could Jack ascertain what had become of Thames, or learn any
-particulars concerning the family at Dollis Hill, or of his mother.
-Austin, who had been evidently schooled by Wild, maintained a profound
-silence on this head. In this way, more than a month passed over. October
-arrived; and in another week the court would be sitting at the Old Bailey.
-</p>
-<p>
-One night, about this time, just as Austin was about to lock the great
-gate, Jonathan Wild and his two janizaries entered the Lodge with a
-prisoner bound hand and foot. It was Blueskin. On the cords being removed,
-he made a desperate spring at Wild, bore him to the ground, clutched at
-his throat, and would, infallibly, have strangled him, if the keepers had
-not all thrown themselves upon him, and by main force torn him off. His
-struggles were so violent, that, being a man of tremendous strength, it
-was some time before they could master him, and it required the combined
-efforts of all the four partners to put him into irons. It appeared from
-what he said that he had been captured when asleep,—that his liquor
-had been drugged,—otherwise, he would never have allowed himself to
-be taken alive. Wild, he asserted, had robbed him of a large sum of money,
-and till it was restored he would never plead.
-</p>
-<p>
-“We'll see that,” replied Jonathan. “Take him to the bilbowes. Put him in
-the stocks, and there let him sleep off his drunken fit. Whether he pleads
-or not, he shall swing with his confederate, Jack Sheppard.”
- </p>
-<p>
-At this allusion to his leader, a shudder passed through Blueskin's
-athletic frame.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Where is he?” he cried. “Let me see him. Let me have a word with him, and
-you may take all the money.”
- </p>
-<p>
-Jonathan made no answer, but motioned the partners to take him away.
-</p>
-<p>
-As soon as Blueskin was removed, Wild intimated his intention of visiting
-the Castle. He was accompanied by Ireton and Austin. The massive door was
-unlocked, and they entered the cell. What was their surprise to find it
-vacant, and the prisoner gone! Jonathan, could scarcely believe his eyes.
-He looked fiercely and inquiringly from one to the other of his
-companions; but, though both of them were excessively frightened, neither
-appeared guilty. Before a word could be said, however, a slight noise was
-heard in the chimney, and Jack with his irons on descended from it.
-Without betraying the slightest confusion, or making a single remark, he
-quietly resumed his seat.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Amazement!” cried Wild. “How has he unfastened his padlock? Austin, it
-must be owing to your negligence.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“My negligence, Mr. Wild,” said the turnkey, trembling in every joint. “I
-assure you, Sir, when I left him an hour ago, it was locked. I tried it
-myself, Sir. I'm as much astonished as you. But I can't account for it!”
- </p>
-<p>
-“At all events, you shall answer for it,” thundered Wild, with a bitter
-imprecation.
-</p>
-<p>
-“He's not to blame,” said Jack, rising. “I opened the padlock with this
-crooked nail, which I found in the floor. If you had arrived ten minutes
-later, or if there hadn't been an iron bar in the chimney, that hindered
-my progress, I should have been beyond your reach.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“You talk boldly,” replied Wild. “Go to the Iron Hold, Austin, and tell
-two of the partners to bring another padlock of the largest size, and the
-heaviest handcuffs they can find. We'll try whether he'll get loose
-again.”
- </p>
-<p>
-Sheppard said nothing, but a disdainful smile curled his lips.
-</p>
-<p>
-Austin departed, and presently afterwards returned with the two
-subordinate officers, each of whom wore a leathern apron round his waist,
-and carried a large hammer. As soon as the manacles were slipped over the
-prisoner's wrists, and the new padlock secured to the staple, they
-withdrew.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Leave me alone with him a moment,” said Jonathan. And the jailers also
-retired.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Jack,” said Wild, with a glance of malignant triumph, “I will now tell
-you what I have done. All my plans have succeeded. Before a month has
-elapsed, your mother will be mine. The Trenchard estates will likewise be
-mine, for Sir Rowland is no more, and the youth, Thames, will never again
-see daylight. Blueskin, who had evaded me with the papers and the money,
-is a prisoner here, and will perish on the same gallows as yourself. My
-vengeance is completely gratified.”
- </p>
-<p>
-Without waiting for a reply, but darting a malevolent look at the
-prisoner, he quitted the cell, the door of which was instantly
-double-locked and bolted.
-</p>
-<p>
-“I've not quite done yet,” said Jonathan, as he joined the turnkeys. “I
-should like to see whether Blueskin is a little more composed. I've a
-question to ask him. Give me the keys and the light. I'll go alone.”
- </p>
-<p>
-So saying, he descended a short spiral staircase, and, entering a long
-stone gallery, from which several other passages branched, took one of
-them, and after various turnings—for he was familiar with all the
-intricacies of the prison—arrived at the cell of which he was in
-search. Selecting a key from the heavy bunch committed to him by Austin,
-he threw open the door, and beheld Blueskin seated at the back of the
-small chamber, handcuffed, and with his feet confined in a heavy pair of
-stocks. He was asleep when Jonathan entered, and growled at being
-disturbed. But, as soon as he perceived who it was, he roused himself, and
-glared fiercely at the intruder from under his bent brows.
-</p>
-<p>
-“What do you want?” he asked, in a gruff voice.
-</p>
-<p>
-“I want to know what you've done with the rest of the notes—with the
-gold—and the papers you took away from my room!” rejoined Wild.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Then you'll never know more than this,” retorted Blueskin, with a grin of
-satisfaction;—“they're in a place of safety, where <i>you</i>'ll
-never find 'em, but where somebody else <i>will</i>, and that before
-long.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Hear me, Blueskin,” said Jonathan, restraining his choler. “If you'll
-tell me where to look for these things, and I <i>do</i> find them, I'll
-set you free. And you shall have a share of the gold for yourself.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“I'll tell you what I'll do,” rejoined the other. “Set Captain Sheppard
-free, and when I hear he's safe,—not before,—I'll put the
-money and papers into your possession, and some other matters, too, that
-you know nothing about.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Impracticable dolt!” exclaimed Jonathan, furiously. “Do you think I'd
-part with the sweetest morsel of revenge on those terms? No! But I'll have
-the secret out of you by other means.”
- </p>
-<p>
-So saying, he violently shut and locked the door.
-</p>
-<p>
-About ten days after this interview, Blueskin, having been indicted by
-Wild for several robberies, and true bills found against him, was placed
-at the bar of the Old Bailey to be arraigned; when he declared that he
-would not plead to the indictment, unless the sum of five hundred pounds,
-taken from him by Jonathan Wild, was first restored to him. This sum,
-claimed by Wild under the statute 4th and 5th of William and Mary,
-entitled “<i>An act for encouraging the apprehending of Highwaymen</i>,”
- was granted to him by the court.
-</p>
-<p>
-As Blueskin still continued obstinate, the judgment appointed to be
-executed upon such prisoners as stood mute, was then read. It was as
-follows, and, when uttered, produced a strong effect upon all who heard
-it, except the prisoner, who, in no respect, altered his sullen and dogged
-demeanour.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Prisoner at the bar,” thus ran the sentence, “you shall be taken to the
-prison from whence you came, and put into a mean room, stopped from the
-light; and shall there be laid on the bare ground, without any litter,
-straw, or other covering, and without any garment. You shall lie upon your
-back; your head shall be covered; and your feet shall be bare. One of your
-arms shall be drawn to one side of the room, and the other arm to the
-other side, and your legs shall be served in the like manner. Then, there
-shall be laid upon your body as much iron, or stone as you can bear, and
-more. And the first day, you shall have three morsels of barley bread,
-without any drink; and the second day, you shall be allowed to drink as
-much as you can, at three times, of the water that is next to the
-prison-door, except running-water, without any bread. And this shall be
-your diet till you die.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Prisoner at the bar,” continued the clerk of the court, “he against whom
-this judgment is given, forfeits his goods to the king.”
- </p>
-<p>
-An awful silence prevailed throughout the court. Every eye was fixed upon
-the prisoner. But, as he made no answer, he was removed.
-</p>
-<p>
-Before the full sentence was carried into execution, he was taken into a
-small room adjoining the court. Here Marvel, the executioner, who was in
-attendance, was commanded by Wild to tie his thumbs together, which he did
-with whipcord so tightly, that the string cut to the bone. But, as this
-produced no effect, and did not even elicit a groan, the prisoner was
-carried back to Newgate.
-</p>
-<p>
-The Press Room, to which Blueskin was conveyed on his arrival at the jail,
-was a small square chamber, walled and paved with stone. In each corner
-stood a stout square post reaching to the ceiling. To these a heavy wooden
-apparatus was attached, which could be raised or lowered at pleasure by
-pullies. In the floor were set four ring-bolts, about nine feet apart.
-When the prisoner was brought into this room, he was again questioned;
-but, continuing contumacious, preparations were made for inflicting the
-torture. His great personal strength being so well known, it was deemed
-prudent by Marvel to have all the four partners, together with Caliban, in
-attendance. The prisoner, however, submitted more quietly than was
-anticipated. He allowed his irons and clothes to be taken off without
-resistance. But just as they were about to place him on the ground, he
-burst from their hold, and made a desperate spring at Jonathan, who was
-standing with his arms folded near the door watching the scene. The
-attempt was unsuccessful. He was instantly overpowered, and stretched upon
-the ground. The four men fell upon him, holding his arms and legs, while
-Caliban forced back his head. In this state, he contrived to get the poor
-black's hand into his mouth, and nearly bit off one of his fingers before
-the sufferer could be rescued. Meanwhile, the executioner had attached
-strong cords to his ankles and wrists, and fastened them tightly to the
-iron rings. This done, he unloosed the pulley, and the ponderous machine,
-which resembled a trough, slowly descended upon the prisoner's breast.
-Marvel, then, took two iron weights, each of a hundred pounds, and placed
-them in the press. As this seemed insufficient, after a lapse of five
-minutes, he added another hundred weight. The prisoner breathed with
-difficulty. Still, his robust frame enabled him to hold out. After he had
-endured this torture for an hour, at a sign from Wild another hundred
-weight was added. In a few minutes, an appalling change was perceptible.
-The veins in his throat and forehead swelled and blackened; his eyes
-protruded from their sockets, and stared wildly; a thick damp gathered on
-his brow: and blood gushed from his mouth, nostrils, and ears.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Water!” he gasped.
-</p>
-<p>
-The executioner shook his head.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Do you submit?” interrogated Wild.
-</p>
-<p>
-Blueskin answered by dashing his head violently against the flagged floor.
-His efforts at self-destruction were, however, prevented.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Try fifty pounds more,” said Jonathan.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Stop!” groaned Blueskin.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Will you plead?” demanded Wild, harshly.
-</p>
-<p>
-“I will,” answered the prisoner.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Release him,” said Jonathan. “We have cured his obstinacy, you perceive,”
- he added to Marvel.
-</p>
-<p>
-“I <i>will</i> live,” cried Blueskin, with a look of the deadliest hatred
-at Wild, “to be revenged on you.”
- </p>
-<p>
-And, as the weights were removed, he fainted.
-</p>
-<p>
-<br /><br />
-</p>
-<hr />
-<p>
-<a name="link2HCH0006" id="link2HCH0006"> </a>
-</p>
-<div style="height: 4em;">
-<br /><br /><br /><br />
-</div>
-<h2>
-CHAPTER XVI. HOW JACK SHEPPARD'S PORTRAIT WAS PAINTED.
-</h2>
-<p class="pfirst"><span class="dropcap" style="font-size: 4.00em">E</span>arly in the morning of Thursday, the 15th of October, 1724, the door of
-the Castle was opened by Austin, who, with a look of unusual importance,
-announced to the prisoner that four gentlemen were shortly coming up with
-the governor to see him,—“four <i>such</i> gentlemen,” he added, in
-a tone meant to impress his auditor with a due sense of the honour
-intended him, “as you don't meet every day.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Is Mr. Wood among them?” asked Jack, eagerly.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Mr. Wood!—no,” replied the turnkey. “Do you think I'd take the
-trouble to announce <i>him</i>? These are persons of consequence, I tell
-you.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Who are they?” inquired Sheppard.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Why, first,” rejoined Austin, “there's Sir James Thornhill, historical
-painter to his Majesty, and the greatest artist of the day. Those grand
-designs in the dome of St. Paul's are his work. So is the roof of the
-state-room at Hampton Court Palace, occupied by Queen Anne, and the Prince
-of Denmark. So is the chapel of All Souls at Oxford, and the great hall at
-Blenheim, and I don't know how many halls and chapels besides. He's now
-engaged on the hall at Greenwich Hospital.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“I've heard of him,” replied Jack, impatiently. “Who are the others?”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Let me see. There's a friend of Sir James—a young man, an engraver
-of masquerade tickets and caricatures,—his name I believe is
-Hogarth. Then, there's Mr. Gay, the poet, who wrote the 'Captives,' which
-was lately acted at Drury Lane, and was so much admired by the Princess of
-Wales. And, lastly, there's Mr. Figg, the noted prize-fighter, from the
-New Amphitheatre in Marylebone Fields.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Figg's an old friend of mine,” rejoined Jack; “he was my instructor in
-the small sword and back sword exercise. I'm glad he's come to see me.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“You don't inquire what brings Sir James Thornhill here?” said Austin.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Curiosity, I suppose,” returned Jack, carelessly.
-</p>
-<p>
-“No such thing,” rejoined the jailer; “he's coming on business.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“On what business, in the name of wonder?” asked Sheppard.
-</p>
-<p>
-“To paint your portrait,” answered the jailer.
-</p>
-<p>
-“My portrait!” echoed Jack.
-</p>
-<p>
-“By desire of his Majesty,” said the jailer, consequentially. “He has
-heard of your wonderful escapes, and wishes to see what you're like.
-There's a feather in your cap! No house-breaker was ever so highly
-honoured before.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“And have my escapes really made so much noise as to reach the ear of
-royalty?” mused Jack. “I have done nothing—nothing to what I <i>could</i>
-do—to what I <i>will</i> do!”
- </p>
-<p>
-“You've done quite enough,” rejoined Austin; “more than you'll ever do
-again.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“And then to be taken thus, in these disgraceful bonds!” continued Jack,
-“to be held up as a sight for ever!”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Why, how else would you be taken?” exclaimed the jailer, with a coarse
-laugh. “It's very well Mr. Wild allowed you to have your fine clothes
-again, or you might have been taken in a still more disgraceful garb. For
-my part, I think those shackles extremely becoming. But, here they are.”
- </p>
-<p>
-Voices being heard at the door, Austin flew to open it, and admitted Mr.
-Pitt, the governor, a tall pompous personage, who, in his turn, ushered in
-four other individuals. The first of these, whom he addressed as Mr. Gay,
-was a stout, good-looking, good-humoured man, about thirty-six, with a
-dark complexion, an oval face, fine black eyes, full of fire and
-sensibility, and twinkling with roguish humour—an expression fully
-borne out by the mouth, which had a very shrewd and sarcastic curl. The
-poet's appearance altogether was highly prepossessing. With a strong
-tendency to satire, but without a particle of malice or ill-nature in its
-display. Gay, by his strokes of pleasantry, whether in his writings or
-conversation, never lost a friend. On the contrary, he was a universal
-favourite, and numbered amongst his intimate acquaintances the choicest
-spirits of the time,—Pope, Swift, Arbuthnot, and “all the better
-brothers.” His demeanour was polished; his manners singularly affable and
-gentle; and he was remarkable, for the generosity of his temper. In
-worldly matters Gay was not fortunate. Possessed, at one time, of a share
-in the South Sea stock, he conceived himself worth twenty thousand pounds.
-But, on the bursting of that bubble, his hopes vanished with it. Neither
-did his interest,—which was by no means inconsiderable,—nor
-his general popularity, procure him the preferment he desired. A constant
-attendant at court, he had the mortification to see every one promoted but
-himself, and thus bewails his ill-luck.
-</p>
-<pre xml:space="preserve">
-Places, I found, were daily given away,
-And yet no friendly gazette mentioned Gay.
-</pre>
-<p>
-The prodigious success of the “Beggars' Opera,” which was produced about
-four years after the date of this history, rewarded him for all his
-previous disappointments, though it did not fully justify the well-known
-epigram, alluding to himself and the manager, and “make Gay <i>rich</i>,
-and Rich <i>gay</i>.” At the time of his present introduction, his play of
-“The Captives,” had just been produced at Drury Lane, and he was
-meditating his “Fables,” which were published two years afterwards.
-</p>
-<p>
-Behind the poet came Sir James Thornhill. The eminent painter had
-handsome, expressive features, an aquiline nose, and a good deal of
-dignity in his manner. His age was not far from fifty. He was accompanied
-by a young man of about seven-and-twenty, who carried his easel, set it in
-its place, laid the canvass upon it, opened the paint box, took out the
-brushes and palette, and, in short, paid him the most assiduous attention.
-This young man, whose features, though rather plain and coarse, bore the
-strongest impress of genius, and who had a dark gray, penetrating eye, so
-quick in its glances that it seemed to survey twenty objects at once, and
-yet only to fasten upon one, bore the honoured name of William Hogarth.
-Why he paid so much attention to Sir James Thornhill may be explained
-anon.
-</p>
-<p>
-The rear of the party was brought up by a large, powerfully-built man,
-with a bluff, honest, but rugged countenance, slashed with many a cut and
-scar, and stamped with that surly, sturdy, bull-dog-like look, which an
-Englishman always delights to contemplate, because he conceives it to be
-characteristic of his countrymen. This formidable person, who was no other
-than the renowned Figg, the “Atlas of the sword,” as he is termed by
-Captain Godfrey, had removed his hat and “skull covering,” and was wiping
-the heat from his bepatched and close-shaven pate. His shirt also was
-unbuttoned, and disclosed a neck like that of an ox, and a chest which
-might have served as a model for a Hercules. He had a flattish, perhaps,
-it should be called, a <i>flattened</i> nose, and a brown,
-leathern-looking hide, that seemed as if it had not unfrequently undergone
-the process of tanning. Under his arm he carried a thick, knotted
-crab-stick. The above description of
-</p>
-<pre xml:space="preserve">
-—the great Figg, by the prize-fighting swains
-Sole monarch acknowledged of Mary'bone plains—
-</pre>
-<p>
-may sound somewhat tame by the side of the glowing account given of him by
-his gallant biographer, who asserts that “there was a majesty shone in his
-countenance, and blazed in his actions, beyond all I ever saw;” but it
-may, possibly, convey a more accurate notion of his personal appearance.
-James Figg was the most perfect master of self-defence of his day.
-Seconded by his strength and temper, his skill rendered him invincible and
-he is reputed never to have lost a battle. His imperturbable demeanour in
-the fight has been well portrayed by Captain Godfrey, who here condescends
-to lay aside his stilts. “His right leg bold and firm, and his left, which
-could hardly ever be disturbed, gave him a surprising advantage, and
-struck his adversary with despair and panic. He had a peculiar way of
-stepping in, in a parry; knew his arm, and its just time of moving; put a
-firm faith in that, and never let his opponent escape. He was just as much
-a greater master than any other I ever saw, as he was a greater judge of
-time and measure.” Figg's prowess in a combat with Button has been
-celebrated by Dr. Byrom,—a poet of whom his native town, Manchester,
-may be justly proud; and his features and figure have been preserved by
-the most illustrious of his companions on the present occasion,—Hogarth,—in
-the levée in the “Rake's Progress,” and in “Southwark Fair.”
- </p>
-<p>
-On the appearance of his visitors, Sheppard arose,—his gyves
-clanking heavily as he made the movement,—and folding his arms, so
-far as his manacles would permit him, upon his breast, steadily returned
-the glances fixed upon him.
-</p>
-<p>
-“This is the noted house-breaker and prison-breaker, gentlemen,” said Mr.
-Pitt, pointing to the prisoner.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Odd's life!” cried Gay, in astonishment; “is this slight-made stripling
-Jack Sheppard? Why, I expected to see a man six foot high at the least,
-and as broad across the shoulders as our friend Figg. This is a mere boy.
-Are you sure you haven't mistaken the ward, Mr. Pitt?”
- </p>
-<p>
-“There is no mistake, Sir,” rejoined the prisoner, drawing himself up, “I
-am Jack Sheppard.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Well, I never was more surprised in my life,” said the poet,—“never!”
- </p>
-<p>
-“He's just the man <i>I</i> expected to see,” observed Hogarth, who,
-having arranged everything to Thornhill's satisfaction, had turned to look
-at the prisoner, and was now with his chin upon his wrist, and his elbow
-supported by the other hand, bending his keen gray eyes upon him, “just
-the man! Look at that light, lithe figure,—all muscle and activity,
-with not an ounce of superfluous flesh upon it. In my search after strange
-characters, Mr. Gay, I've been in many odd quarters of our city—have
-visited haunts frequented only by thieves—the Old Mint, the New
-Mint, the worst part of St. Giles's, and other places—but I've
-nowhere seen any one who came up so completely to my notion of a
-first-rate housebreaker as the individual before us. Wherever I saw him, I
-should pick him out as a man designed by nature to plan and accomplish the
-wonderful escapes he has effected.”
- </p>
-<p>
-As he spoke, a smile crossed Sheppard's countenance.
-</p>
-<p>
-“He understands me, you perceive,” said Hogarth.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Well, I won't dispute your judgment in such matters, Mr. Hogarth,”
- replied Gay. “But I appeal to you, Sir James, whether it isn't
-extraordinary that so very slight a person should be such a desperate
-robber as he is represented—so young, too, for such an <i>old</i>
-offender. Why, he can scarcely be twenty.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“I am one-and-twenty,” observed Jack.
-</p>
-<p>
-“One-and-twenty, ah!” repeated Gay. “Well, I'm not far from the mark.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“He is certainly extremely youthful-looking and very slightly made,” said
-Thornhill, who had been attentively studying Sheppard's countenance. “But
-I agree with Hogarth, that he is precisely the person to do what he has
-done. Like a thorough-bred racer, he would sustain twice as much fatigue
-as a person of heavier mould. Can I be accommodated with a seat, Mr.
-Pitt?”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Certainly, Sir James, certainly,” replied the governor. “Get a chair,
-Austin.”
- </p>
-<p>
-While this order was obeyed, Figg, who had been standing near the door,
-made his way to the prisoner, and offered him his huge hand, which Jack
-warmly grasped.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Well, Jack,” said the prize-fighter, in a rough, but friendly voice, and
-with a cut-and-thrust abrupt manner peculiar to himself; “how are you,
-lad, eh? Sorry to see you here. Wouldn't take my advice. Told you how it
-would be. One mistress enough to ruin a man,—two, the devil. Laughed
-at me, then. Laugh on the wrong side of your mouth, now.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“You're not come here to insult me, Mr. Figg?” said Jack, peevishly.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Insult you! not I;” returned Figg. “Heard of your escapes. Everybody
-talking of you. Wished to see you. Old pupil. Capital swordsman. Shortly
-to be executed. Come to take leave. Trifle useful?” he added, slipping a
-few gold pieces into Jack's hand.
-</p>
-<p>
-“You are very kind,” said Jack, returning the money; “but I don't require
-assistance.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Too proud, eh?” rejoined the prize-fighter. “Won't be under an
-obligation.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“There you're wrong, Mr. Figg,” replied Jack, smiling; “for, before I'm
-taken to Tyburn, I mean to borrow a shirt for the occasion from you.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Have it, and welcome,” rejoined Figg. “Always plenty to spare. Never
-bought a shirt in my life, Mr. Gay,” he added, turning to the poet. “Sold
-a good many, though.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“How do you manage that, Mr. Figg?” asked Gay.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Thus,” replied the prize-fighter. “Proclaim a public fight. Challenge
-accepted. Fifty pupils. Day before, send round to each to borrow a shirt.
-Fifty sent home. All superfine holland. Wear one on the stage on the
-following day. Cut to pieces—slashed—bloodied. Each of my
-scholars thinks it his own shirt. Offer to return it to each in private.
-All make the same answer—'d—n you, keep it.'”
- </p>
-<p>
-“An ingenious device,” laughed Gay.
-</p>
-<p>
-Sir James Thornhill's preparations being completed, Mr. Pitt desired to
-know if he wanted anything further, and being answered in the negative, he
-excused himself on the plea that his attendance was required in the court
-at the Old Bailey, which was then sitting, and withdrew.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Do me the favour to seat yourself, Jack,” said Sir James. “Gentlemen, a
-little further off, if you please.”
- </p>
-<p>
-Sheppard immediately complied with the painter's request; while Gay and
-Figg drew back on one side, and Hogarth on the other. The latter took from
-his pocket a small note-book and pencil.
-</p>
-<p>
-“I'll make a sketch, too,” he said. “Jack Sheppard's face is well worth
-preserving.”
- </p>
-<p>
-After narrowly examining the countenance of the sitter, and motioning him
-with his pencil into a particular attitude, Sir James Thornhill commenced
-operations; and, while he rapidly transferred his lineaments to the
-canvass, engaged him in conversation, in the course of which he artfully
-contrived to draw him into a recital of his adventures. The <i>ruse</i>
-succeeded almost beyond his expectation. During the narration Jack's
-features lighted up, and an expression, which would have been in vain
-looked for in repose, was instantly caught and depicted by the skilful
-artist. All the party were greatly interested by Sheppard's history—especially
-Figg, who laughed loud and long at the escape from the Condemned Hold.
-When Jack came to speak of Jonathan Wild, his countenance fell.
-</p>
-<p>
-“We must change the subject,” remarked Thornhill, pausing in his task;
-“this will never do.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Quite right, Sir James,” said Austin. “We never suffer him to mention Mr.
-Wild's name. He never appears to so little advantage as when speaking of
-him.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“I don't wonder at it,” rejoined Gay.
-</p>
-<p>
-Here Hogarth received a private signal from Thornhill to attract
-Sheppard's attention.
-</p>
-<p>
-“And so you've given up all hope of escaping, eh, Jack?” remarked Hogarth.
-</p>
-<p>
-“That's scarcely a fair question, Mr. Hogarth, before the jailer,” replied
-Jack. “But I tell you frankly, and Mr. Austin, may repeat it if he pleases
-to his master, Jonathan Wild,—I have <i>not</i>.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Well said, Jack,” cried Figg. “Never give in.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Well,” observed Hogarth, “if, fettered as you are, you contrive to break
-out of this dungeon, you'll do what no man ever did before.”
- </p>
-<p>
-A peculiar smile illuminated Jack's features.
-</p>
-<p>
-“There it is!” cried Sir James, eagerly. “There's the exact expression I
-want. For the love of Heaven, Jack, don't move!—Don't alter a
-muscle, if you can help it.”
- </p>
-<p>
-And, with a few magical touches, he stamped the fleeting expression on the
-canvass.
-</p>
-<p>
-“I have it too!” exclaimed Hogarth, busily plying his pencil. “Gad! it's a
-devilish fine face when lit up.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“As like as life, Sir,” observed Austin, peeping over Thornhill's shoulder
-at the portrait. “As like as life.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“The very face,” exclaimed Gay, advancing to look at it;—“with all
-the escapes written in it.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“You flatter me,” smiled Sir James. “But, I own, I think it <i>is</i>
-like.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“What do you think of <i>my</i> sketch, Jack?” said Hogarth, handing him
-the drawing.
-</p>
-<p>
-“It's like enough, I dare say,” rejoined Sheppard. “But it wants something
-<i>here</i>.” And he pointed significantly to the hand.
-</p>
-<p>
-“I see,” rejoined Hogarth, rapidly sketching a file, which he placed in
-the hands of the picture. “Will that do?” he added, returning it.
-</p>
-<p>
-“It's better,” observed Sheppard, meaningly. “But you've given me what I
-don't possess.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Hum!” said Hogarth, looking fixedly at him. “I don't see how I can
-improve it.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“May I look at it, Sir!” said Austin, stepping towards him.
-</p>
-<p>
-“No,” replied Hogarth, hastily effacing the sketch. “I'm never satisfied
-with a first attempt.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Egad, Jack,” said Gay, “you should write your adventures. They would be
-quite as entertaining as the histories of Guzman D'Alfarache, Lazarillo de
-Tormes, Estevanillo Gonzalez, Meriton Latroon, or any of my favourite
-rogues,—and far more instructive.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“You had better write them for me, Mr. Gay,” rejoined Jack.
-</p>
-<p>
-“If you'll write them, I'll illustrate them,” observed Hogarth.
-</p>
-<p>
-“An idea has just occurred to me,” said Gay, “which Jack's narrative has
-suggested. I'll write an opera the scene of which shall be laid altogether
-in Newgate, and the principal character shall be a highmaywan. I'll not
-forget your two mistresses, Jack.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Nor Jonathan Wild, I hope,” interposed Sheppard.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Certainly not,” replied Gay. “I'll gibbet the rascal. But I forget,” he
-added, glancing at Austin; “it's high treason to speak disrespectfully of
-Mr. Wild in his own domain.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“I hear nothing, Sir,” laughed Austin.
-</p>
-<p>
-“I was about to add,” continued Gay, “that my opera shall have no music
-except the good old ballad tunes. And we'll see whether it won't put the
-Italian opera out of fashion, with Cutzoni, Senesino, and the 'divine'
-Farinelli at its head.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“You'll do a national service, then,” said Hogarth. “The sums lavished
-upon those people are perfectly disgraceful, and I should be enchanted to
-see them hooted from the stage. But I've an idea as well as you, grounded
-in some measure upon Sheppard's story. I'll take two apprentices, and
-depict their career. One, by perseverance and industry shall obtain
-fortune, credit, and the highest honours; while the other by an opposite
-course, and dissolute habits, shall eventually arrive at Tyburn.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Your's will be nearer the truth, and have a deeper moral, Mr. Hogarth,”
- remarked Jack, dejectedly. “But if my career were truly exhibited, it must
-be as one long struggle against destiny in the shape of—”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Jonathan Wild,” interposed Gay. “I knew it. By the by, Mr. Hogarth,
-didn't I see you last night at the ridotto with Lady Thornhill and her
-pretty daughter?”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Me!—no, Sir,” stammered Hogarth, colouring. And he hazarded a wink
-at the poet over the paper on which he was sketching. Luckily, Sir James
-was so much engrossed by his own task, that both the remark and gesture
-escaped him.
-</p>
-<p>
-“I suppose I was mistaken,” returned Gay. “You've been quizzing my friend
-Kent, I perceive, in your Burlington Gate.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“A capital caricature that,” remarked Thornhill, laughing. “What does Mr.
-Kent say to it?”
- </p>
-<p>
-“He thinks so highly of it, that he says if he had a daughter he would
-give her to the artist,” answered Gay, a little maliciously.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Ah!” exclaimed Sir James.
-</p>
-<p>
-“'Sdeath!” cried Hogarth, aside to the poet. “You've ruined my hopes.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Advanced them rather,” replied Gay, in the same tone. “Miss Thornhill's a
-charming girl. <i>I</i> think a wife a needless incumbrance, and mean to
-die a bachelor. But, if I were in your place, I know what I'd do—”
- </p>
-<p>
-“What—what would you do?” asked Hogarth, eagerly.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Run away with her,” replied Gay.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Pish!” exclaimed Hogarth. But he afterwards acted upon the suggestion.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Good-b'ye, Jack,” said Figg, putting on his hat. “Rather in the way. Send
-you the shirt. Here, turnkey. Couple of guineas to drink Captain
-Sheppard's speedy escape. Thank him, not me, man. Give this fellow the
-slip, if you can, Jack. If not, keep up your spirits. Die game.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Never fear,” replied Jack. “If I get free, I'll have a bout with you at
-all weapons. If not, I'll take a cheerful glass with you at the City of
-Oxford, on my way to Tyburn.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Give you the best I have in either case,” replied Figg. “Good-b'ye!” And
-with a cordial shake of the hand he took his departure.
-</p>
-<p>
-Sir James Thornhill, then, rose.
-</p>
-<p>
-“I won't trouble you further, Jack,” he remarked. “I've done all I can to
-the portrait here. I must finish it at home.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Permit me to see it, Sir James!” requested Jack. “Ah!” he exclaimed, as
-the painting was turned towards him. “What would my poor mother say to
-it?”
- </p>
-<p>
-“I was sorry to see that about your mother, Jack,” observed Hogarth.
-</p>
-<p>
-“What of her?” exclaimed Jack, starting up. “Is she dead?”
- </p>
-<p>
-“No—no,” answered Hogarth. “Don't alarm yourself. I saw it this
-morning in the Daily Journal—an advertisement, offering a reward—”
- </p>
-<p>
-“A reward!” echoed Jack. “For what?”
- </p>
-<p>
-“I had the paper with me. 'Sdeath! what can I have done with it? Oh! here
-it is,” cried Hogarth, picking it from the ground. “I must have dropped it
-when I took out my note-book. There's the paragraph. '<i>Mrs. Sheppard
-left Mr. Wood's house at Dollis Hill on Tuesday</i>'—that's two days
-ago,—'<i>hasn't been heard of since</i>.'”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Let me see,” cried Jack, snatching the paper, and eagerly perusing the
-advertisement. “Ah!” he exclaimed, in a tone of anguish. “She has fallen
-into the villain's hands.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“What villain?” cried Hogarth.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Jonathan Wild, I'll be sworn,” said Gay.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Right!—right!” cried Jack, striking his fettered hands against his
-breast. “She is in his power, and I am here, chained hand and foot, unable
-to assist her.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“I could make a fine sketch of him now,” whispered Hogarth to Gay.
-</p>
-<p>
-“I told you how it was, Sir James,” said Austin, addressing the knight,
-who was preparing for his departure, “he attributes every misfortune that
-befals him to Mr. Wild.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“And with some justice,” replied Thornhill, drily.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Allow me to assist you, Sir James,” said Hogarth.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Many thanks, Sir,” replied Thornhill, with freezing politeness; “but Id
-not require assistance.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“I tell you what, Jack,” said Gay, “I've several urgent engagements this
-morning; but I'll return to-morrow, and hear the rest of your story. And,
-if I can render you any service, you may command me.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“To-morrow will be too late,” said Sheppard, moodily.
-</p>
-<p>
-The easel and palette having been packed up, and the canvass carefully
-removed by Austin, the party took leave of the prisoner, who was so much
-abstracted that he scarcely noticed their departure. Just as Hogarth got
-to the door, the turnkey stopped him.
-</p>
-<p>
-“You have forgotten your knife, Mr. Hogarth,” he observed, significantly.
-</p>
-<p>
-“So I have,” replied Hogarth, glancing at Sheppard.
-</p>
-<p>
-“I can do without it,” muttered Jack.
-</p>
-<p>
-The door was then locked, and he was left alone.
-</p>
-<p>
-At three o'clock, on the same day, Austin brought up Jack's provisions,
-and, after carefully examining his fetters, and finding all secure, told
-him if he wanted anything further he must mention it, as he should not be
-able to return in the evening, his presence being required elsewhere. Jack
-replied in the negative, and it required all his mastery over himself to
-prevent the satisfaction which this announcement afforded him from being
-noticed by the jailer.
-</p>
-<p>
-With the usual precautions, Austin then departed.
-</p>
-<p>
-“And now,” cried Jack, leaping up, “for an achievement, compared with
-which all I have yet done shall be as nothing!”
- </p>
-<p>
-<br /><br />
-</p>
-<hr />
-<p>
-<a name="link2HCH0007" id="link2HCH0007"> </a>
-</p>
-<div style="height: 4em;">
-<br /><br /><br /><br />
-</div>
-<h2>
-CHAPTER XVII. THE IRON BAR.
-</h2>
-<p class="pfirst"><span class="dropcap" style="font-size: 4.00em">J</span>ack Sheppard's first object was to free himself from his handcuffs. This
-he accomplished by holding the chain that connected them firmly between
-his teeth, and squeezing his fingers as closely together as possible,
-succeeded in drawing his wrists through the manacles. He next twisted the
-heavy gyves round and round, and partly by main strength, partly by a
-dexterous and well-applied jerk, sapped asunder the central link by which
-they were attached to the padlock. Taking off his stockings, he then drew
-up the basils as far as he was able, and tied the fragments of the broken
-chain to his legs, to prevent them from clanking, and impeding his future
-exertions.
-</p>
-<p>
-Jack's former attempt to pass up the chimney, it may be remembered, was
-obstructed by an iron bar. To remove this obstacle it was necessary make
-an extensive breach in the wall. With the broken links of the chain, which
-served him in lieu of more efficient implements, he commenced operations
-just above the chimney-piece, and soon contrived to pick a hole in the
-plaster.
-</p>
-<p>
-He found the wall, as he suspected, solidly constructed of brick and
-stone; and with the slight and inadequate tools which he possessed, it was
-a work of infinite labour and skill to get out a single brick. That done,
-however, he was well aware the rest would be comparatively easy, and as he
-threw the brick to the ground, he exclaimed triumphantly, “The first step
-is taken—the main difficulty is overcome.”
- </p>
-<p>
-Animated by this trifling success, he proceeded with fresh ardour, and the
-rapidity of his progress was proclaimed by the heap of bricks, stones, and
-mortar which before long covered the floor. At the expiration of an hour,
-by dint of unremitting exertion, he had made so large a breach in the
-chimney, that he could stand upright in it. He was now within a foot of
-the bar, and introducing himself into the hole, speedily worked his way to
-it.
-</p>
-<p>
-Regardless of the risk he incurred from some heavy stone dropping on his
-head or feet,—regardless also of the noise made by the falling
-rubbish, and of the imminent danger which he consequently ran of being
-interrupted by some of the jailers, should the sound reach their ears, he
-continued to pull down large masses of the wall, which he flung upon the
-floor of the cell.
-</p>
-<p>
-Having worked thus for another quarter of an hour without being sensible
-of fatigue, though he was half stifled by the clouds of dust which his
-exertions raised, he had made a hole about three feet wide, and six high,
-and uncovered the iron bar. Grasping it firmly with both hands, he quickly
-wrenched if from the stones in which it was mortised, and leapt to the
-ground. On examination it proved to be a flat bar of iron, nearly a yard
-in length, and more than an inch square. “A capital instrument for my
-purpose,” thought Jack, shouldering it, “and worth all the trouble I have
-had in procuring it.”
- </p>
-<p>
-While he was thus musing, he fancied he heard the lock tried. A chill ran
-through his frame, and, grasping the heavy weapon with which chance had
-provided him, prepared to strike down the first person who should enter
-the cell. After listening attentively for a short time without drawing
-breath, he became convinced that his apprehensions were groundless, and,
-greatly relieved, sat down upon the chair to rest himself and prepare for
-further efforts.
-</p>
-<p>
-Acquainted with every part of the jail, Jack well knew that his only
-chance of effecting an escape must be by the roof. To reach it would be a
-most difficult undertaking. Still it was possible, and the difficulty was
-only a fresh incitement.
-</p>
-<p>
-The mere enumeration of the obstacles that existed would have deterred any
-spirit less daring than Sheppard's from even hazarding the attempt.
-Independently of other risks, and of the chance of breaking his neck in
-the descent, he was aware that to reach the leads he should have to break
-open six of the strongest doors of the prison. Armed, however, with the
-implement he had so fortunately obtained, he did not despair of success.
-</p>
-<p>
-“My name will only be remembered as that of a robber,” he mused; “but it
-shall be remembered as that of a bold one: and this night's achievement,
-if it does nothing else, shall prevent me from being classed with the
-common herd of depredators.”
- </p>
-<p>
-Roused by this reflection, filled with the deepest anxiety for his mother,
-and burning to be avenged upon Jonathan Wild, he grasped the iron bar,
-which, when he sat down, he had laid upon his knees, and stepped quickly
-across the room. In doing so, he had to clamber up the immense heap of
-bricks and rubbish which now littered the floor, amounting almost to a
-car-load, and reaching up nearly to the top of the chimney-piece.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Austin will stare,” thought Jack, “when he comes here in the morning. It
-will cost them something to repair their stronghold, and take them more
-time to build it up again than I have taken to pull it down.”
- </p>
-<p>
-Before proceeding with his task, he considered whether it would be
-possible to barricade the door; but, reflecting that the bar would be an
-indispensable assistant in his further efforts, he abandoned the idea, and
-determined to rely implicitly on that good fortune which had hitherto
-attended him on similar occasions.
-</p>
-<p>
-Having once more got into the chimney, he climbed to a level with the ward
-above, and recommenced operations as vigorously as before. He was now
-aided with a powerful implement, with which he soon contrived to make a
-hole in the wall.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Every brick I take out,” cried Jack, as fresh rubbish clattered down the
-chimney, “brings me nearer my mother.”
- </p>
-<p>
-<br /><br />
-</p>
-<hr />
-<p>
-<a name="link2HCH0008" id="link2HCH0008"> </a>
-</p>
-<div style="height: 4em;">
-<br /><br /><br /><br />
-</div>
-<h2>
-CHAPTER XVIII. THE RED ROOM.
-</h2>
-<p class="pfirst"><span class="dropcap" style="font-size: 4.00em">T</span>he ward into which Jack was endeavouring to break was called the Red
-Room, from the circumstance of its walls having once been painted in that
-colour; all traces of which had, however, long since disappeared. Like the
-Castle, which it resembled in all respects except that it was destitute
-even of a barrack-bedstead, the Red Room was reserved for state-prisoners,
-and had not been occupied since the year 1716, when the jail, as has
-before been mentioned, was crowded by the Preston rebels.
-</p>
-<p>
-Having made a hole in the wall sufficiently large to pass through, Jack
-first tossed the bar into the room and then crept after it. As soon as he
-had gained his feet, he glanced round the bare blank walls of the cell,
-and, oppressed by the musty, close atmosphere, exclaimed, “I'll let a
-little fresh air into this dungeon. They say it hasn't been opened for
-eight years—but I won't be eight years in getting out of it.”
- </p>
-<p>
-In stepping across the room, some sharp point in the floor pierced his
-foot, and stooping to examine it, he found that the wound had been
-inflicted by a long rusty nail, which projected from the boards. Totally
-disregarding the pain, he picked up the nail, and reserved it for future
-use. Nor was he long in making it available.
-</p>
-<p>
-On examining the door, he found it secured by a large rusty lock, which he
-endeavoured to pick with the nail he had just acquired; but all his
-efforts proving ineffectual, he removed the plate that covered it with the
-bar, and with his fingers contrived to draw back the bolt.
-</p>
-<p>
-Opening the door he then stepped into a dark narrow passage leading, as he
-was well aware, to the chapel. On the left there were doors communicating
-with the King's Bench Ward and the Stone Ward, two large holds on the
-Master Debtors' side. But Jack was too well versed in the geography of the
-place to attempt either of them. Indeed, if he had been ignorant of it,
-the sound of voices which he could faintly distinguish, would have served
-as a caution to him.
-</p>
-<p>
-<br /><br />
-</p>
-<hr />
-<p>
-<a name="linkimage-0005" id="linkimage-0005"> </a>
-</p>
-<div class="fig" style="width:35%;">
-<img src="images/183s.jpg" alt="183s " width="100%" /><br />
-</div>
-<h4>
-<a href="images/183.jpg"><i>Original Size</i></a> -- <a
-href="images/183m.jpg"><i>Medium-Size</i></a>
-</h4>
-<p>
-Hurrying on, his progress was soon checked by a strong door, several
-inches in thickness, and nearly as wide as the passage. Running his hand
-carefully over it in search of the lock, he perceived to his dismay that
-it was fastened on the other side. After several vain attempts to burst it
-open, he resolved, as a last alternative, to break through the wall in the
-part nearest to the lock. This was a much more serious task than he
-anticipated. The wall was of considerable thickness, and built altogether
-of stone; and the noise he was compelled to make in using the heavy bar,
-which brought sparks with every splinter he struck off, was so great, that
-he feared it must be heard by the prisoners on the Debtors' side.
-Heedless, however, of the consequences, he pursued his task.
-</p>
-<p>
-Half an hour's labour, during which he was obliged more than once to pause
-to regain breath, sufficed to make a hole wide enough to allow a passage
-for his arm up to the elbow. In this way he was able to force back a
-ponderous bolt from its socket; and to his unspeakable joy, found that the
-door instantly yielded.
-</p>
-<p>
-Once more cheered by daylight, he hastened forward, and entered the
-chapel.
-</p>
-<p>
-<br /><br />
-</p>
-<hr />
-<p>
-<a name="link2HCH0009" id="link2HCH0009"> </a>
-</p>
-<div style="height: 4em;">
-<br /><br /><br /><br />
-</div>
-<h2>
-CHAPTER XIX. THE CHAPEL.
-</h2>
-<p class="pfirst"><span class="dropcap" style="font-size: 4.00em">S</span>ituated at the upper part of the south-east angle of the jail, the chapel
-of Old Newgate was divided on the north side into three grated
-compartments, or pens as they were termed, allotted to the common debtors
-and felons. In the north-west angle, there was a small pen for female
-offenders, and, on the south, a more commodious enclosure appropriated to
-the master-debtors and strangers. Immediately beneath the pulpit stood a
-large circular pew where malefactors under sentence of death sat to hear
-the condemned sermon delivered to them, and where they formed a public
-spectacle to the crowds, which curiosity generally attracted on those
-occasions.
-</p>
-<p>
-To return. Jack had got into one of the pens at the north side of the
-chapel. The enclosure by which it was surrounded was about twelve feet
-high; the under part being composed of taken planks, the upper of a strong
-iron grating, surmounted by sharp iron spikes. In the middle there was a
-gate. It was locked. But Jack speedily burst it open with the iron bar.
-</p>
-<p>
-Clearing the few impediments in his way, he soon reached the condemned
-pew, where it had once been his fate to sit; and extending himself on the
-seat endeavoured to snatch a moment's repose. It was denied him, for as he
-closed his eyes—though but for an instant—the whole scene of
-his former visit to the place rose before him. There he sat as before,
-with the heavy fetters on his limbs, and beside him sat his three
-companions, who had since expiated their offences on the gibbet. The
-chapel was again crowded with visitors, and every eye—even that of
-Jonathan Wild who had come thither to deride him,—was fixed upon
-him. So perfect was the illusion, that he could almost fancy he heard the
-solemn voice of the ordinary warning him that his race was nearly run, and
-imploring him to prepare for eternity. From this perturbed state he was
-roused by thoughts of his mother, and fancying he heard her gentle voice
-urging him on to fresh exertion, he started up.
-</p>
-<p>
-On one side of the chapel there was a large grated window, but, as it
-looked upon the interior of the jail, Jack preferred following the course
-he had originally decided upon to making any attempt in this quarter.
-</p>
-<p>
-Accordingly, he proceeded to a gate which stood upon the south, and
-guarded the passage communicating with the leads. It was grated and
-crested with spikes, like that he had just burst open, and thinking it a
-needless waste of time to force it, he broke off one of the spikes, which
-he carried with him for further purposes, and then climbed over it.
-</p>
-<p>
-A short flight of steps brought him to a dark passage, into which he
-plunged. Here he found another strong door, making the fifth he had
-encountered. Well aware that the doors in this passage were much stronger
-than those in the entry he had just quitted he was neither surprised nor
-dismayed to find it fastened by a lock of unusual size. After repeatedly
-trying to remove the plate, which was so firmly screwed down that it
-resisted all his efforts, and vainly attempting to pick it with the spike
-and nail; he, at length, after half an hour's ineffectual labour, wrenched
-off the box by means of the iron bar, and the door, as he laughingly
-expressed it, “became his humble servant.”
- </p>
-<p>
-But this difficulty was only overcome to be succeeded by one still
-greater. Hastening along the passage he came to the sixth door. For this
-he was prepared; but he was not prepared for the almost insurmountable
-obstacles which it presented. Running his hand hastily over it, he was
-startled to find it one complicated mass of bolts and bars. It seemed as
-if all the precautions previously taken were here accumulated. Any one
-less courageous than himself would have abandoned the attempt from a
-conviction of its utter hopelessness; but, though it might for a moment
-damp his ardour, it could not deter him.
-</p>
-<p>
-Once again, he passed his hand over the surface and carefully noted all
-the obstacles. There was a lock, apparently more than a foot wide,
-strongly plated, and girded to the door with thick iron hoops. Below it a
-prodigiously large bolt was shot into the socket, and, in order to keep it
-there, was fastened by a hasp, and further protected by an immense
-padlock. Besides this, the door was crossed and recrossed by iron bars,
-clenched by broad-headed nails. An iron fillet secured the socket of the
-bolt and the box of the lock to the main post of the doorway.
-</p>
-<p>
-Nothing disheartened by this survey, Jack set to work upon the lock, which
-he attacked with all his implements;—now attempting to pick it with
-the nail;—now to wrench it off with the bar: but all without effect.
-He not only failed in making any impression, but seemed to increase the
-difficulties, for after an hour's toil he had broken the nail and slightly
-bent the iron bar.
-</p>
-<p>
-Completely overcome by fatigue, with strained muscles, and bruised hands;
-streaming with perspiration, and with lips so parched that he would gladly
-have parted with a treasure if he had possessed it for a draught of water;
-he sank against the wall, and while in this state was seized with, a
-sudden and strange alarm. He fancied that the turnkeys had discovered his
-flight and were in pursuit of him,—that they had climbed up the
-chimney,—entered the Red Room,—tracked him from door to door,
-and were now only detained by the gate which he had left unbroken in the
-chapel. He even thought he could detect the voice of Jonathan, urging and
-directing them.
-</p>
-<p>
-<br /><br />
-</p>
-<hr />
-<p>
-<a name="linkimage-0006" id="linkimage-0006"> </a>
-</p>
-<div class="fig" style="width:35%;">
-<img src="images/195s.jpg" alt="195s " width="100%" /><br />
-</div>
-<h4>
-<a href="images/195.jpg"><i>Original Size</i></a> -- <a
-href="images/195m.jpg"><i>Medium-Size</i></a>
-</h4>
-<p>
-So strongly was he impressed with this idea, that grasping the iron bar
-with both hands, he dashed it furiously against the door, making the
-passage echo with the blows.
-</p>
-<p>
-By degrees, his fears vanished, and hearing nothing, he grew calmer. His
-spirits revived, and encouraging himself with the idea that the present
-impediment, though the greatest, was the last, he set himself seriously to
-consider how it might best be overcome.
-</p>
-<p>
-On reflection, it occurred to him that he might, perhaps, be able to
-loosen the iron fillet; a notion no sooner conceived than executed. With
-incredible labour, and by the aid of both spike and nail, he succeeded in
-getting the point of the bar beneath the fillet. Exerting all his
-energies, and using the bar as a lever, he forced off the iron band, which
-was full seven feet high, seven inches wide, and two thick, and which
-brought with it in its fall the box of the lock and the socket of the
-bolt, leaving no further hinderance.
-</p>
-<p>
-Overjoyed beyond measure at having vanquished this
-apparently-insurmountable obstacle, Jack darted through the door.
-</p>
-<p>
-<br /><br />
-</p>
-<hr />
-<p>
-<a name="link2HCH0010" id="link2HCH0010"> </a>
-</p>
-<div style="height: 4em;">
-<br /><br /><br /><br />
-</div>
-<h2>
-CHAPTER XX. THE LEADS.
-</h2>
-<p class="pfirst"><span class="dropcap" style="font-size: 4.00em">A</span>scending a short flight of steps, Jack found at the summit a door, which
-being bolted in the inside he speedily opened.
-</p>
-<p>
-The fresh air, which blew in his face, greatly revived him. He had now
-reached what was called the Lower Leads,—a flat, covering a part of
-the prison contiguous to the gateway, and surrounded on all sides by walls
-about fourteen feet high. On the north stood the battlements of one of the
-towers of the gate. On this side a flight of wooden steps, protected by a
-hand-rail, led to a door opening upon the summit of the prison. This door
-was crested with spikes, and guarded on the right by a bristling
-semicircle of spikes. Hastily ascending these steps, Jack found the door,
-as he anticipated, locked. He could have easily forced it, but preferred a
-more expeditious mode of reaching the roof which suggested itself to him.
-Mounting the door he had last opened, he placed his hands on the wall
-above, and quickly drew himself up.
-</p>
-<p>
-Just as he got on the roof of the prison, St. Sepulchre's clock struck
-eight. It was instantly answered by the deep note of St. Paul's; and the
-concert was prolonged by other neighbouring churches. Jack had thus been
-six hours in accomplishing his arduous task.
-</p>
-<p>
-Though nearly dark, there was still light enough left to enable him to
-discern surrounding objects. Through the gloom he distinctly perceived the
-dome of St. Paul's, hanging like a black cloud in the air; and nearer to
-him he remarked the golden ball on the summit of the College of
-Physicians, compared by Garth to a “gilded pill.” Other towers and spires—St.
-Martin's on Ludgate-hill, and Christchurch in Newgate Street, were also
-distinguishable. As he gazed down into the courts of the prison, he could
-not help shuddering, lest a false step might precipitate him below.
-</p>
-<p>
-To prevent the recurrence of any such escape as that just described, it
-was deemed expedient, in more recent times, to keep a watchman at the top
-of Newgate. Not many years ago, two men, employed on this duty, quarrelled
-during the night, and in the morning their bodies were found stretched
-upon the pavement of the yard beneath.
-</p>
-<p>
-Proceeding along the wall, Jack reached the southern tower, over the
-battlements of which he clambered, and crossing it, dropped upon the roof
-of the gate. He then scaled the northern tower, and made his way to the
-summit of that part of the prison which fronted Giltspur Street. Arrived
-at the extremity of the building, he found that it overlooked the
-flat-roof of a house which, as far as he could judge in the darkness, lay
-at a depth of about twenty feet below.
-</p>
-<p>
-Not choosing to hazard so great a fall, Jack turned to examine the
-building, to see whether any more favourable point of descent presented
-itself, but could discover nothing but steep walls, without a single
-available projection. As he looked around, he beheld an incessant stream
-of passengers hurrying on below. Lights glimmered in the windows of the
-different houses; and a lamp-lighter was running from post to post on his
-way to Snow Hill.
-</p>
-<p>
-Finding it impossible to descend on any side, without incurring serious
-risk, Jack resolved to return for his blanket, by the help of which he
-felt certain of accomplishing a safe landing on the roof of the house in
-Giltspur Street.
-</p>
-<p>
-Accordingly, he began to retrace his steps, and pursuing the course he had
-recently taken, scaling the two towers, and passing along the wall of the
-prison, he descended by means of the door upon the Lower Leads. Before he
-re-entered the prison, he hesitated from a doubt whether he was not
-fearfully increasing his risk of capture; but, convinced that he had no
-other alternative, he went on.
-</p>
-<p>
-During all this time, he had never quitted the iron bar, and he now
-grasped it with the firm determination of selling his life dearly, if he
-met with any opposition. A few seconds sufficed to clear the passage,
-through which it had previously cost him more than two hours to force his
-way. The floor was strewn with screws, nails, fragments of wood and stone,
-and across the passage lay the heavy iron fillet. He did not disturb any
-of this litter, but left it as a mark of his prowess.
-</p>
-<p>
-He was now at the entrance of the chapel, and striking the door over which
-he had previously climbed a violent blow with the bar, it flew open. To
-vault over the pews was the work of a moment; and having gained the entry
-leading to the Red Room he passed through the first door; his progress
-being only impeded by the pile of broken stones, which he himself had
-raised.
-</p>
-<p>
-Listening at one of the doors leading to the Master Debtors' side, he
-heard a loud voice chanting a Bacchanalian melody, and the boisterous
-laughter that accompanied the song, convinced him that no suspicion was
-entertained in this quarter. Entering the Red Room, he crept through the
-hole in the wall, descended the chimney, and arrived once more in his old
-place of captivity.
-</p>
-<p>
-How different were his present feelings compared with those he had
-experienced on quitting it. <i>Then</i>, though full of confidence, he
-half doubted his power of accomplishing his designs. <i>Now</i>, he <i>had</i>
-achieved them, and felt assured of success. The vast heap of rubbish on
-the floor had been so materially increased by the bricks and plaster
-thrown down in his attack upon the wall of the Red Room, that it was with
-some difficulty he could find the blanket which was almost buried beneath
-the pile. He next searched for his stockings and shoes, and when found,
-put them on.
-</p>
-<p>
-While he was thus employed, his nerves underwent a severe shock. A few
-bricks, dislodged probably by his last descent, came clattering down the
-chimney, and as it was perfectly dark, gave him the notion that some one
-was endeavouring to force an entrance into the room.
-</p>
-<p>
-But these fears, like those he had recently experienced, speedily
-vanished, and he prepared to return to the roof, congratulating himself
-that owing to the opportune falling of the bricks, he had in all
-probability escaped serious injury.
-</p>
-<p>
-Throwing the blanket over his left arm and shouldering the iron bar, he
-again clambered up the chimney; regained the Red Room; hurried along the
-first passage; crossed the Chapel; threaded the entry to the Lower Leads;
-and, in less than ten minutes after quitting the Castle, had reached the
-northern extremity of the prison.
-</p>
-<p>
-<br /><br />
-</p>
-<hr />
-<p>
-<a name="linkimage-0007" id="linkimage-0007"> </a>
-</p>
-<div class="fig" style="width:35%;">
-<img src="images/206s.jpg" alt="206s " width="100%" /><br />
-</div>
-<h4>
-<a href="images/206.jpg"><i>Original Size</i></a> -- <a
-href="images/206m.jpg"><i>Medium-Size</i></a>
-</h4>
-<p>
-Previously to his descent he had left the nail and spike on the wall, and
-with these he fastened the blanket to the stone coping. This done, he let
-himself carefully down by it, and having only a few feet to drop, alighted
-in safety.
-</p>
-<p>
-Having now fairly got out of Newgate for the second time, with a heart
-throbbing with exultation, he hastened to make good his escape. To his
-great joy he found a small garret-door in the roof of the opposite house
-open. He entered it; crossed the room, in which there was only a small
-truckle-bed, over which he stumbled; opened another door and gained the
-stair-head. As he was about to descend his chains slightly rattled. “Oh,
-lud! what's that?” exclaimed a female voice, from an adjoining room. “Only
-the dog,” replied the rough tones of a man.
-</p>
-<p>
-Securing the chain in the best way he could, Jack then hurried down two
-pair of stairs, and had nearly reached the lobby, when a door suddenly
-opened, and two persons appeared, one of whom held a light. Retreating as
-quickly as he could, Jack opened the first door he came to, entered a
-room, and searching in the dark for some place of concealment, fortunately
-discovered a skreen, behind which he crept.
-</p>
-<p>
-<br /><br />
-</p>
-<hr />
-<p>
-<a name="link2HCH0011" id="link2HCH0011"> </a>
-</p>
-<div style="height: 4em;">
-<br /><br /><br /><br />
-</div>
-<h2>
-CHAPTER XXI. WHAT BEFELL JACK SHEPPARD IN THE TURNER'S HOUSE.
-</h2>
-<p class="pfirst"><span class="dropcap" style="font-size: 4.00em">J</span>ack was scarcely concealed when the door opened, and the two persons of
-whom he had caught a glimpse below entered the room. What was his
-astonishment to recognise in the few words they uttered the voices of
-Kneebone and Winifred! The latter was apparently in great distress, and
-the former seemed to be using his best efforts to relieve her anxiety.
-</p>
-<p>
-“How very fortunate it is,” he observed, “that I happened to call upon Mr.
-Bird, the turner, to give him an order this evening. It was quite an
-unexpected pleasure to meet you and your worthy father.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Pray cease these compliments,” returned Winifred, “and, if you have any
-communication to make, do not delay it. You told me just now that you
-wished to speak a few words to me in private, concerning Thames Darrell,
-and for that purpose I have left my father below with Mr. Bird and have
-come hither. What have you got to say?”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Too much,” replied Kneebone, shaking his head; “sadly too much.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Do not needlessly alarm me, I beseech you,” replied Winifred. “Whatever
-your intelligence may be I will strive to bear it. But do not awaken my
-apprehension, unless you have good cause for so doing.—What do you
-know of Thames?—Where is he?”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Don't agitate yourself, dearest girl,” rejoined the woollen-draper; “or I
-shall never be able to commence my relation.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“I am calm—perfectly calm,” replied Winifred. “Pray, make no further
-mystery; but tell me all without reserve.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Since you require it, I must obey,” replied Kneebone; “but prepare
-yourself for a terrible shock.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“For mercy's sake, go on!” cried Winifred.
-</p>
-<p>
-“At all hazards then then you shall know the truth,” replied the
-woollen-draper, in a tone of affected solicitude,—“but are you
-really prepared?”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Quite—quite!” replied Winifred. “This suspense is worse than
-torture.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“I am almost afraid to utter it,” said Kneebone; “but Thames Darrell is
-murdered.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Murdered!” ejaculated Winifred.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Basely and inhumanly murdered, by Jack Sheppard and Blueskin,” continued
-Kneebone.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Oh! no—no—no,” cried Winifred, “I cannot believe it. You must
-be misinformed, Mr. Kneebone. Jack may be capable of much that is wicked,
-but he would never lift his hand against his friend,—of that I am
-assured.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Generous girl!” cried Jack from behind the skreen.
-</p>
-<p>
-“I have proofs to the contrary,” replied Kneebone. “The murder was
-committed after the robbery of my house by Sheppard and his accomplices. I
-did not choose to mention my knowledge of this fact to your worthy father;
-but you may rely on its correctness.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“You were right not to mention it to him,” rejoined Winifred, “for he is
-in such a state of distress at the mysterious disappearance of Mrs.
-Sheppard, that I fear any further anxiety might prove fatal to him. And
-yet I know not—for the object of his visit here to-night was to
-serve Jack, who, if your statement is correct, which I cannot however for
-a moment believe, does not deserve his assistance.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“You may rest assured he does not,” rejoined Kneebone, emphatically, “but
-I am at a loss to understand in what way your father proposes to assist
-him.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Mr. Bird, the turner, who is an old friend of our's, has some
-acquaintance with the turnkeys of Newgate,” replied Winifred, “and by his
-means my father hoped to convey some implements to Jack, by which he might
-effect another escape.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“I see,” remarked Kneebone. “This must be prevented,” he added to himself.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Heaven grant you may have been wrongly informed with respect to Thames!”
- exclaimed Winifred; “but, I beseech you, on no account to mention what you
-have told me to my poor father. He is not in a state of mind to bear it.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Rely on me,” rejoined Kneebone. “One word before we part, adorable girl—only
-one,” he continued, detaining her. “I would not venture to renew my suit
-while Thames lived, because I well knew your affections were fixed upon
-him. But now that this bar is removed, I trust I may, without impropriety,
-urge it.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“No more of this,” said Winifred, angrily. “Is this a season to speak on
-such a subject?”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Perhaps not,” rejoined the woollen-draper; “but the uncontrollable
-violence of my passion must plead my excuse. My whole life shall be
-devoted to you, beloved girl. And when you reflect how much at heart your
-poor mother, whose loss we must ever deplore, had our union, you will, I
-am persuaded, no longer refuse me.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Sir!” exclaimed Winifred.
-</p>
-<p>
-“You will make me the happiest of mankind,” cried the woollen-draper,
-falling on his knees, and seizing her hand, which he devoured with kisses.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Let me go,” cried Winifred. “I disbelieve the whole story you have told
-me.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“By Heaven!” cried Kneebone, with increasing fervour, “it is true—as
-true as my affection for you.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“I do not doubt it,” retorted Winifred, scornfully; “because I attach
-credit neither to one nor the other. If Thames <i>is</i> murdered, you are
-his assassin. Let me go, Sir.”
- </p>
-<p>
-The woollen-draper made no answer, but hastily starting up, bolted the
-door.
-</p>
-<p>
-“What do you mean?” cried Winifred in alarm.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Nothing more than to obtain a favourable answer to my suit,” replied
-Kneebone.
-</p>
-<p>
-“This is not the way to obtain it,” said Winifred, endeavouring to reach
-the door.
-</p>
-<p>
-“You shall not go, adorable girl,” cried Kneebone, catching her in his
-arms, “till you have answered me. You must—you shall be mine.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Never,” replied Winifred. “Release me instantly, or I will call my
-father.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Do so,” replied Kneebone; “but remember the door is locked.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Monster!” cried Winifred. “Help! help!”
- </p>
-<p>
-“You call in vain,” returned Kneebone.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Not so,” replied Jack, throwing down the skreen. “Release her instantly,
-villain!”
- </p>
-<p>
-Both Winifred and her suitor started at this sudden apparition. Jack,
-whose clothes were covered with dust, and whose face was deathly pale from
-his recent exertion, looked more like a phantom than a living person.
-</p>
-<p>
-“In the devil's name, is that you, Jack!” ejaculated Kneebone.
-</p>
-<p>
-“It is,” replied Sheppard. “You have uttered a wilful and deliberate
-falsehood in asserting that I have murdered Thames, for whom you well know
-I would lay down my life. Retract your words instantly, or take the
-consequences.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“What should I retract, villain?” cried the woollen-draper, who at the
-sound of Jack's voice had regained his confidence. “To the best of my
-belief, Thames Darrell has been murdered by you.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“A lie!” exclaimed Jack in a terrible tone. And before Kneebone could draw
-his sword, he felled him to the ground with the iron bar.
-</p>
-<p>
-“You have killed him,” cried Winifred in alarm.
-</p>
-<p>
-“No,” answered Jack, approaching her, “though, if I had done so, he would
-have merited his fate. You do not believe his statement?”
- </p>
-<p>
-“I do not,” replied Winifred. “I could not believe you capable of so foul
-a deed. But oh! by what wonderful chance have you come hither so
-seasonably?”
- </p>
-<p>
-“I have just escaped from Newgate,” replied Jack; “and am more than repaid
-for the severe toil I have undergone, in being able to save you. But tell
-me,” he added with much anxiety, “has nothing been heard of Thames since
-the night of my former escape?”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Nothing whatever,” answered Winifred. “He left Dollis Hill at ten o'clock
-on that night, and has not since returned. My father has made every
-possible inquiry, and offered large rewards; but has not been able to
-discover the slightest trace of him. His suspicions at first fell upon
-you. But he has since acquitted you of any share in it.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Oh, Heaven!” exclaimed Jack.
-</p>
-<p>
-“He has been indefatigable in his search,” continued Winifred, “and has
-even journeyed to Manchester. But though he visited Sir Rowland
-Trenchard's seat, Ashton Hall, he could gain no tidings of him, or of his
-uncle, Sir Rowland, who, it seems, has left the country.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Never to return,” remarked Jack, gloomily. “Before to-morrow morning I
-will ascertain what has become of Thames, or perish in the attempt. And
-now tell me what has happened to my poor mother?”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Ever since your last capture, and Thames's mysterious disappearance, she
-has been dreadfully ill,” replied Winifred; “so ill, that each day was
-expected to be her last. She has also been afflicted with occasional
-returns of her terrible malady. On Tuesday night, she was rather better,
-and I had left her for a short time, as I thought, asleep on the sofa in
-the little parlour of which she is so fond—”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Well,” exclaimed Jack.
-</p>
-<p>
-“On my return, I found the window open, and the room vacant. She was
-gone.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Did you discover any trace of footsteps?” inquired Jack eagerly.
-</p>
-<p>
-“There were some marks near the window; but whether recently made or not
-could not be ascertained,” replied Winifred.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Oh God!” exclaimed Jack, in a tone of the bitterest anguish. “My worst
-fears are realized. She is in Wild's power.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“I ought to add,” continued Winifred, “that one of her shoes was picked up
-in the garden, and that prints of her feet were discovered along the soft
-mould; whether made in flying from any one, or from rushing forth in
-distracted terror, it is impossible to say. My father thought the latter.
-He has had the whole country searched; but hitherto without success.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“I know <i>where</i> she will be found, and <i>how</i>,” rejoined Jack
-with a shudder.
-</p>
-<p>
-“I have something further to tell you,” pursued Winifred. “Shortly after
-your last visit to Dollis Hill, my father was one evening waylaid by a
-man, who informed him that he had something to communicate respecting
-Thames, and had a large sum of money, and some important documents to
-deliver to him, which would be given up, provided he would undertake to
-procure your liberation.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“It was Blueskin,” observed Jack.
-</p>
-<p>
-“So my father thought,” replied Winifred; “and he therefore instantly
-fired upon him. But though the shot took effect, as was evident from the
-stains on the ground, the villain escaped.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Your father did right,” replied Jack, with some bitterness. “But if he
-had not fired that shot, he might have saved Thames, and possessed himself
-of papers which would have established his birth, and his right to the
-estates of the Trenchard family.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Would you have had him spare my mother's murderer?” cried Winifred.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Ho, no,” replied Jack. “And yet—but it is only part of the chain of
-ill-luck that seems wound around me. Listen to me, Winifred.”
- </p>
-<p>
-And he hastily related the occurrences in Jonathan Wild's house.
-</p>
-<p>
-The account of the discovery of Sir Rowland's murder filled Winifred with
-alarm; but when she learnt what had befallen Thames—how he had been
-stricken down by the thief-taker's bludgeon, and left for dead, she
-uttered a piercing scream, fainted, and would have fallen, if Jack had not
-caught her in his arms.
-</p>
-<p>
-Jack had well-nigh fallen too. The idea that he held in his arms the girl
-whom he had once so passionately loved, and for whom he still retained an
-ardent but hopeless attachment, almost overcame him. Gazing at her with
-eyes blinded with tears, he imprinted one brotherly kiss upon her lips. It
-was the first—and the last!
-</p>
-<p>
-At this juncture, the handle of the door was tried, and the voice of Mr.
-Wood was heard without, angrily demanding admittance.
-</p>
-<p>
-“What's the matter?” he cried. “I thought I heard a scream. Why is the
-door fastened? Open it directly!”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Are you alone?” asked Jack, mimicking the voice of Kneebone.
-</p>
-<p>
-“What for?” demanded Wood. “Open the door, I say, or I'll burst it open.”
- </p>
-<p>
-Carefully depositing Winifred on a sofa, Jack then extinguished the light,
-and, as he unfastened the door, crept behind it. In rushed Mr. Wood, with
-a candle in his hand, which Jack instantly blew out, and darted down
-stairs. He upset some one—probably Mr. Bird,—who was rushing
-up stairs, alarmed by Mr. Wood's cries: but, regardless of this, he darted
-along a passage, gained the shop, and passed through an open door into the
-street.
-</p>
-<p>
-And thus he was once more free, having effected one of the most wonderful
-escapes ever planned or accomplished.
-</p>
-<p>
-<br /><br />
-</p>
-<hr />
-<p>
-<a name="link2HCH0012" id="link2HCH0012"> </a>
-</p>
-<div style="height: 4em;">
-<br /><br /><br /><br />
-</div>
-<h2>
-CHAPTER XXII. FAST AND LOOSE.
-</h2>
-<p class="pfirst"><span class="dropcap" style="font-size: 4.00em">A</span>bout seven o'clock on the same night, Jonathan Wild's two janizaries, who
-had been for some time in attendance in the hall of his dwelling at the
-Old Bailey, were summoned to the audience-chamber. A long and secret
-conference then took place between the thief-taker and his myrmidons,
-after which they were severally dismissed.
-</p>
-<p>
-Left alone, Jonathan lighted a lamp, and, opening the trap-door, descended
-the secret stairs. Taking the opposite course from that which he had
-hitherto pursued when it has been necessary to attend him in his visits to
-the lower part of his premises, he struck into a narrow passage on the
-right, which he tracked till he came to a small door, like the approach to
-a vault. Unlocking it, he entered the chamber, which by no means belied
-its external appearance.
-</p>
-<p>
-On a pallet in one corner lay a pale emaciated female. Holding the lamp
-over her rigid but beautiful features, Jonathan, with some anxiety, placed
-his hand upon her breast to ascertain whether the heart still beat.
-Satisfied with his scrutiny, he produced a pocket-flask, and taking off
-the silver cup with which it was mounted, filled it with the contents of
-the flask, and then seizing the thin arm of the sleeper, rudely shook it.
-Opening her large black eyes, she fixed them upon him for a moment with a
-mixture of terror and loathing, and then averted her gaze.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Drink this,” cried Jonathan, handing her the cup. “You'll feel better
-after it.”
- </p>
-<p>
-Mechanically raising the potion to her lips, the poor creature swallowed
-it without hesitation.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Is it poison?” she asked.
-</p>
-<p>
-“No,” replied Jonathan, with a brutal laugh. “I'm not going to get rid of
-you just yet. It's gin—a liquor you used to like. You'll find the
-benefit of it by and by. You've a good deal to go through to-night.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Ah!” exclaimed Mrs. Sheppard, “are you come to renew your terrible
-proposals?”
- </p>
-<p>
-“I'm come to execute my threats,” replied Wild. “To-night you shall be my
-wedded wife.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“I will die first,” replied Mrs. Sheppard.
-</p>
-<p>
-“You may die <i>afterwards</i> as soon as you please,” retorted Jonathan;
-“but live till then you <i>shall</i>. I've sent for the priest.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Mercy!” cried Mrs. Sheppard, vainly trying to discover a gleam of
-compassion in the thief-taker's inexorable countenance,—“Mercy!
-mercy!”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Pshaw!” rejoined Jonathan. “You should be glad to be made an honest
-woman.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Oh! let me die,” groaned the widow. “I have not many days,—perhaps,
-not many hours to live. But kill me rather than commit this outrage.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“That wouldn't answer my purpose,” replied Jonathan, savagely. “I didn't
-carry you off from old Wood to kill you, but to wed you.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“What motive can you have for so vile a deed?” asked Mrs. Sheppard.
-</p>
-<p>
-“You know my motive well enough,” answered Jonathan. “However, I'll
-refresh your memory. I once might have married you for your beauty,—now
-I marry you for your wealth.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“My wealth,” replied Mrs. Sheppard. “I have nothing.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“You are heiress to the Trenchard property,” rejoined Jonathan, “one of
-the largest estates in Lancashire.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Not while Thames Darrell and Sir Rowland live.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Sir Rowland is dead,” replied Jonathan, gloomily. “Thames Darrell only
-waits my mandate to follow him. Before our marriage there will be no life
-between you and the estates.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Ah!” exclaimed Mrs. Sheppard.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Look here,” cried Jonathan, stooping down and taking hold of a ring in
-the floor, with which by a great effort he raised up a flag. “In this
-pit,” he added, pointing to the chasm below, “your brother is buried. Here
-your nephew will speedily be thrown.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Horrible!” cried Mrs. Sheppard, shuddering violently. “But your dreadful
-projects will recoil on your own head. Heaven will not permit the
-continuance of such wickedness as you practise.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“I'll take my chance,” replied Jonathan, with a sinister smile. “My
-schemes have succeeded tolerably well hitherto.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“A day of retribution will assuredly arrive,” rejoined Mrs. Sheppard.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Till then, I shall remain content,” returned Wild. “And now, Mrs.
-Sheppard, attend to what I'm about to say to you. Years ago, when you were
-a girl and in the bloom of your beauty, I loved you.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Loved me! <i>You</i>!”
- </p>
-<p>
-“I loved you,” continued Jonathan, “and struck by your appearance, which
-seemed above your station, inquired your history, and found you had been
-stolen by a gipsy in Lancashire. I proceeded to Manchester, to investigate
-the matter further, and when there ascertained, beyond a doubt, that you
-were the eldest daughter of Sir Montacute Trenchard. This discovery made,
-I hastened back to London to offer you my hand, but found you had married
-in the mean time a smock-faced, smooth-tongued carpenter named Sheppard.
-The important secret remained locked in my breast, but I resolved to be
-avenged. I swore I would bring your husband to the gallows,—would
-plunge you in such want, such distress, that you should have no
-alternative but the last frightful resource of misery,—and I also
-swore, that if you had a son he should share the same fate as his father.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“And terribly you have kept your vow,” replied Mrs. Sheppard.
-</p>
-<p>
-“I have,” replied Jonathan. “But I am now coming to the point which most
-concerns you. Consent to become my wife, and do not compel me to have
-recourse to violence to effect my purpose, and I will spare your son.”
- </p>
-<p>
-Mrs. Sheppard looked fixedly at him, as if she would penetrate the gloomy
-depth of his soul.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Swear that you will do this,” she cried.
-</p>
-<p>
-“I swear it,” rejoined Jonathan, readily.
-</p>
-<p>
-“But what is an oath to you!” cried the widow, distrustfully. “You will
-not hesitate to break it, if it suits your purpose. I have suffered too
-much from your treachery. I will not trust you.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“As you please,” replied Jonathan, sternly. “Recollect you are in my
-power. Jack's life hangs on your determination.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“What shall I do?” cried Mrs. Sheppard, in a voice of agony.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Save him,” replied Jonathan. “You <i>can</i> do so.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Bring him here,—let me see him—let me embrace him—let
-me be assured that he is safe, and I am yours. I swear it.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Hum!” exclaimed Jonathan.
-</p>
-<p>
-“You hesitate—you are deceiving me.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“By my soul, no,” replied Jonathan, with affected sincerity. “You shall
-see him to-morrow.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Delay the marriage till then. I will never consent till I see him.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“You ask impossibilities,” replied Jonathan, sullenly. “All is prepared.
-The marriage cannot—shall not be delayed. You must be mine
-to-night.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Force shall not make me yours till Jack is free,” replied the widow,
-resolutely.
-</p>
-<p>
-“An hour hence, I shall return with the priest,” replied Jonathan,
-striding towards the door.
-</p>
-<p>
-And, with a glance of malignant exultation, he quitted the vault, and
-locked the door.
-</p>
-<p>
-“An hour hence, I shall be beyond your malice,” said Mrs. Sheppard,
-sinking backwards upon the pallet.
-</p>
-<p>
-<br /><br />
-</p>
-<hr />
-<p>
-<a name="link2HCH0013" id="link2HCH0013"> </a>
-</p>
-<div style="height: 4em;">
-<br /><br /><br /><br />
-</div>
-<h2>
-CHAPTER XXIII. THE LAST MEETING BETWEEN JACK SHEPPARD AND HIS MOTHER.
-</h2>
-<p class="pfirst"><span class="dropcap" style="font-size: 4.00em">A</span>fter escaping from the turner's house, Jack Sheppard skirted St.
-Sepulchre's church, and hurrying down Snow Hill, darted into the first
-turning on the left. Traversing Angel Court, and Green Arbour Court,—celebrated
-as one of Goldsmith's retreats,—he speedily reached Seacoal Lane,
-and pursuing the same course, which he and Thames had formerly taken,
-arrived at the yard at the back of Jonathan's habitation.
-</p>
-<p>
-A door, it may be remembered, opened from Wild's dwelling into this yard.
-Before he forced an entrance, Jack tried it, and, to his great surprise
-and delight, found it unfastened. Entering the house, he found himself in
-a narrow passage leading to the back stairs. He had not taken many steps
-when he perceived Quilt Arnold in the upper gallery, with a lamp in his
-hand. Hearing a noise below, Quilt called out, supposing it occasioned by
-the Jew. Jack hastily retreated, and taking the first means of concealment
-that occurred to him, descended the cellar steps.
-</p>
-<p>
-Quilt, meanwhile, came down, examined the door, and finding it unfastened,
-locked it with a bitter imprecation on his brother-janizary's
-carelessness. This done, he followed the course which Jack had just taken.
-As he crossed the cellar, he passed so near to Jack who had concealed
-himself behind a piece of furniture that he almost touched him. It was
-Jack's intention to have knocked him down with the iron bar; but he was so
-struck with the janizary's looks, that he determined to spare him till he
-had ascertained his purpose. With this view, he suffered him to pass on.
-</p>
-<p>
-Quilt's manner, indeed, was that of a man endeavouring to muster up
-sufficient resolution for the commission of some desperate crime. He
-halted,—looked fearfully around,—stopped again, and exclaimed
-aloud, “I don't like the job; and yet it must be done, or Mr. Wild will
-hang me.” With this, he appeared to pluck up his courage, and stepped
-forward more boldly.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Some dreadful deed is about to be committed, which I may perhaps
-prevent,” muttered Jack to himself. “Heaven grant I may not be too late!”
- </p>
-<p>
-Followed by Jack Sheppard, who kept sufficiently near him to watch his
-proceedings, and yet not expose himself, Quilt unlocked one or two doors
-which he left open, and after winding his way along a gloomy passage,
-arrived at the door of a vault. Here he set down the lamp, and took out a
-key, and as he did so the expression of his countenance was so atrocious,
-that Jack felt assured he was not wrong in his suspicions.
-</p>
-<p>
-By this time, the door was unlocked, and drawing his sword, Quilt entered
-the cell. The next moment, an exclamation was heard in the voice of
-Thames. Darting forward at this sound, Jack threw open the door, and
-beheld Quilt kneeling over Thames, who'se hands and feet were bound with
-cords, and about to plunge his sword into his breast. A blow from the iron
-bar instantly stretched the ruffian on the floor. Jack then proceeded to
-liberate the captive from his bondage.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Jack!” exclaimed Thames. “Is it you?”
- </p>
-<p>
-“It is,” replied Sheppard, as he untied the cords. “I might return the
-question. Were it not for your voice, I don't think I should know you. You
-are greatly altered.”
- </p>
-<p>
-Captivity had, indeed, produced a striking alteration in Thames. He looked
-like the shadow of himself—thin, feeble, hollow-eyed—his beard
-unshorn—nothing could be more miserable.
-</p>
-<p>
-“I have never been out of this horrible dungeon since we last met,” he
-said; “though how long ago that is, I scarcely know. Night and day have
-been alike to me.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Six weeks have elapsed since that fatal night,” replied Jack. “During the
-whole of that time I have been a close prisoner in Newgate, whence I have
-only just escaped.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Six weeks!” exclaimed Thames, in a melancholy tone. “It seems like six
-long months to me.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“I do not doubt it,” returned Jack; “none but those who have experienced
-it can understand the miseries of imprisonment.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Do not speak of it,” rejoined Thames, with a look of horror. “Let us fly
-from this frightful place.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“I will conduct you to the outlet,” replied Jack; “but I cannot leave it
-till I have ascertained whether my mother also is a prisoner here.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“I can answer that,” replied Thames. “She is. The monster, Wild, when he
-visited my dungeon last night, told me, to add to my misery, that she
-occupied a cell near me.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Arm yourself with that ruffian's weapons,” replied Jack, “and let us
-search for her.”
- </p>
-<p>
-Thames complied. But he was so feeble, that it seemed scarcely possible he
-could offer any effectual resistance in case of an attack.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Lean on me,” said Jack.
-</p>
-<p>
-Taking the light, they then proceeded along the passage. There was no
-other door in it, and Jack therefore struck into another entry which
-branched off to the right. They had not proceeded far when a low moan was
-heard.
-</p>
-<p>
-“She is here,” cried Jack, darting forward.
-</p>
-<p>
-A few steps brought him to the door of the vault in which his mother was
-immured. It was locked. Jack had brought away the bunch of keys which he
-had taken from Quilt Arnold, but, none of them would open it. He was
-therefore obliged to use the iron bar, which he did with as much caution
-as circumstances would permit. At the first blow, Mrs. Sheppard uttered a
-piercing scream.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Wretch!” she cried, “you shall not force me to your hateful purpose. I
-will never wed you. I have a weapon—a knife—and if you attempt
-to open the door, will plunge it to my heart.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Oh God!” exclaimed Jack, paralysed by her cries. “What shall I do? If I
-persist, I shall destroy her.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Get hence,” continued Mrs. Sheppard, with a frenzied laugh. “You shall
-never behold me alive.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Mother!” cried Jack, in a broken voice. “It is your son.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“It is false,” cried Mrs. Sheppard. “Think not to deceive me, monster. I
-know my son's voice too well. He is in Newgate. Hence!”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Mother! dear mother!” cried Jack, in a voice, the tones of which were
-altered by his very anxiety to make them distinct, “listen to me. I have
-broken from prison, and am come to save you.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“It is <i>not</i> Jack's voice,” rejoined Mrs. Sheppard. “I am not to be
-deceived. The knife is at my breast. Stir a foot, and I strike.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Oh Heavens!” cried Jack, driven to his wits' end. “Mother—dear
-mother! Once again, I beseech you to listen to me. I am come to rescue you
-from Wild's violence. I must break open the door. Hold your hand for a
-moment.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“You have heard my fixed determination, villain,” cried Mrs. Sheppard. “I
-know my life is valuable to you, or you would not spare it. But I will
-disappoint you. Get you gone. Your purposes are defeated.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Footsteps are approaching,” cried Thames. “Heed her not. It is but a wild
-threat.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“I know not how to act,” exclaimed Jack, almost driven to desperation.
-</p>
-<p>
-“I hear you plotting with your wicked associates,” cried Mrs. Sheppard. “I
-have baffled you.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Force the door,” said Thames, “or you will be too late.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Better she die by her own hand, than by that monster's,” cried Jack,
-brandishing the bar. “Mother, I come to you.”
- </p>
-<p>
-With this, he struck the door a heavy blow.
-</p>
-<p>
-He listened. There was a deep groan, and the sound of a fall within.
-</p>
-<p>
-“I have killed her,” exclaimed Jack, dropping the bar,—“by your
-advice, Thames. Oh God! pardon me.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Do not delay,” cried Thames. “She may yet be saved. I am too weak to aid
-you.”
- </p>
-<p>
-Jack again seized the bar, and, dashing it furiously against the door,
-speedily burst it open.
-</p>
-<p>
-The unfortunate woman was stretched upon the floor, with a bloody knife in
-her hand.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Mother!” cried Jack, springing towards her.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Jack!” she cried, raising her head. “Is it you?”
- </p>
-<p>
-“It is,” replied her son, “Oh! why would you not listen to me?”
- </p>
-<p>
-“I was distracted,” replied Mrs. Sheppard, faintly.
-</p>
-<p>
-“I have killed you,” cried Jack, endeavouring to staunch the effusion of
-blood from her breast. “Forgive—forgive me!”
- </p>
-<p>
-“I have nothing to forgive,” replied Mrs. Sheppard. “I alone am to blame.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Can I not carry you where you can obtain help?” cried Jack in a agony of
-distress.
-</p>
-<p>
-“It is useless,” replied Mrs. Sheppard: “nothing can save me. I die happy—quite
-happy in beholding you. Do not remain with me. You may fall into the hands
-of your enemy. Fly! fly!”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Do not think of me, mother, but of yourself,” cried Jack, in an agony of
-tears.
-</p>
-<p>
-“You have always been, far dearer to me than myself,” replied Mrs.
-Sheppard. “But I have one last request to make. Let me lie in Willesden
-churchyard.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“You shall—you shall,” answered Jack.
-</p>
-<p>
-“We shall meet again ere long, my son,” cried Mrs. Sheppard, fixing her
-glazing eyes upon him.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Oh God! she is dying,” exclaimed Jack in a voice suffocated by emotion.
-“Forgive me—oh, forgive me!”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Forgive you—bless you!” she gasped.
-</p>
-<p>
-A cold shiver ran through her frame, and her gentle spirit passed away for
-ever.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Oh, God! that I might die too,” cried Jack, falling on his knees beside
-her.
-</p>
-<p>
-After the first violent outbreak of grief had in some degree subsided,
-Thames addressed him.
-</p>
-<p>
-“You must not remain here,” he said. “You can render no further service to
-your poor mother.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“I can avenge her,” cried Jack in a terrible tone.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Be ruled by me,” returned Thames. “You will act most in accordance with
-her wishes, could she dictate them, by compliance. Do not waste time in
-vain regrets, but let us remove the body, that we may fulfil her last
-injunctions.”
- </p>
-<p>
-After some further arguments, Jack assented to this proposal.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Go on first with the light,” he said. “I will bear the body.” And he
-raised it in his arms.
-</p>
-<p>
-Just as they reached the end of the passage, they heard the voices of
-Jonathan and the Jew in Thames's late place of confinement. Wild had
-evidently discovered the body of Quilt Arnold, and was loudly expressing
-his anger and astonishment.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Extinguish the light,” cried Jack; “turn to the left. Quick! Quick!”
- </p>
-<p>
-The order was only just given in time. They had scarcely gained the
-adjoining cellar when Jonathan and the Jew rushed past in the direction of
-the vault.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Not a moment is to be lost,” cried Jack: “follow me.”
- </p>
-<p>
-So saying, he hurried up stairs, opened the back door, and was quickly in
-the yard. Having ascertained that Thames was at his heels, he hurried with
-his ghastly burthen down Seacoal Lane.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Where are you going?” cried Thames, who, though wholly disencumbered, was
-scarcely able to keep up with him.
-</p>
-<p>
-“I know not—and care not,” replied Jack.
-</p>
-<p>
-At this moment, a coach passed them, and was instantly hailed by Thames.
-</p>
-<p>
-“You had better let me convey her to Dollis Hill,” he said.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Be it so,” replied Jack.
-</p>
-<p>
-Luckily it was so dark, and there was no lamp near, that the man did not
-notice the condition of the body, which was placed in the vehicle by the
-two young men.
-</p>
-<p>
-“What will you do?” asked Thames.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Leave me to my fate,” rejoined Jack. “Take care of your charge.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Doubt me not,” replied Thames.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Bury her in Willesden churchyard, as she requested, on Sunday,” said
-Jack. “I will be there at the time.”
- </p>
-<p>
-So saying, he closed the door.
-</p>
-<p>
-The coachman having received his order, and being offered an extra fare if
-he drove quickly, set off at full speed.
-</p>
-<p>
-As Jack departed, a dark figure, emerging from behind a wall, rushed after
-him.
-</p>
-<p>
-<br /><br />
-</p>
-<hr />
-<p>
-<a name="link2HCH0014" id="link2HCH0014"> </a>
-</p>
-<div style="height: 4em;">
-<br /><br /><br /><br />
-</div>
-<h2>
-CHAPTER XXIV. THE PURSUIT.
-</h2>
-<p class="pfirst"><span class="dropcap" style="font-size: 4.00em">A</span>fter running to some distance down Seacoal Lane, Jack stopped to give a
-last look at the vehicle which was bearing away the remains of his beloved
-and ill-fated mother. It was scarcely out of sight, when two persons,
-whom, he instantly recognised as Jonathan and Abraham Mendez, turned the
-corner of the street, and made it evident from their shouts, that they
-likewise perceived him.
-</p>
-<p>
-Starting off at a rapid pace, Jack dashed down Turnagain-lane, skirted the
-eastern bank of Fleet-ditch, crossed Holborn Bridge, and began to ascend
-the neighbouring hill. By the time he had reached St. Andrew's Church, his
-pursuers had gained the bridge, and the attention of such passengers as
-crowded the streets was attracted towards him by their vociferations.
-Amongst others, the watchman whose box was placed against the churchyard
-wall, near the entrance to Shoe-lane, rushed out and sprung his rattle,
-which was immediately answered by another rattle from Holborn-bars.
-</p>
-<p>
-Darting down Field-lane, Jack struck into a labyrinth of streets on the
-left; but though he ran as swiftly as he could, he was not unperceived.
-His course had been observed by the watchman, who directed Wild which way
-to take.
-</p>
-<p>
-“It is Jack Sheppard, the noted housebreaker,” cried Jonathan, at the top
-of his sonorous voice. “He has just broken out of Newgate. After him! A
-hundred pounds to the man who takes him.”
- </p>
-<p>
-Sheppard's name operated like magic on the crowd. The cry was echoed by
-twenty different voices. People ran out of their shops to join the
-pursuit; and, by the time Wild had got into Field-lane, he had a troop of
-fifty persons at his heels—all eager to assist in the capture.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Stop thief!” roared Jonathan, who perceived the fugitive hurrying along a
-street towards Hatton Garden. “It is Sheppard—Jack Sheppard—stop
-him!” And his shouts were reiterated by the pack of bloodhounds at his
-heels.
-</p>
-<p>
-Jack, meanwhile, heard, the shouts, and, though alarmed by them, held on a
-steady course. By various twistings and turnings, during all which time
-his pursuers, who were greatly increased in numbers, kept him in view, he
-reached Gray's-Inn-lane. Here he was hotly pursued. Fatigued by his
-previous exertions, and incumbered by his fetters, he was by no means—though
-ordinarily remarkably swift of foot—a match for his foes, who were
-fast gaining upon him.
-</p>
-<p>
-At the corner of Liquorpond Street stood the old Hampstead coach-office;
-and, on the night in question, a knot of hostlers, waggoners, drivers, and
-stable-boys was collected in the yard. Hearing the distant shouts, these
-fellows rushed down to the entrance of the court, and arrived there just
-as Jack passed it. “Stop thief!” roared Jonathan. “Stop thief!” clamoured
-the rabble behind.
-</p>
-<p>
-At no loss to comprehend that Jack was the individual pointed out by these
-outcries, two of the nearest of the group made a dash at him. But Jack
-eluded their grasp. A large dog was then set at him by a stable-boy; but,
-striking the animal with his faithful iron-bar, he speedily sent him
-yelping back. The two hostlers, however, kept close at his heels; and
-Jack, whose strength began to flag, feared he could not hold much longer.
-Determined, however, not be taken with life, he held on.
-</p>
-<p>
-Still keeping ahead of his pursuers, he ran along the direct road, till
-the houses disappeared and he got into the open country. Here he was
-preparing to leap over the hedge into the fields on the left, when he was
-intercepted by two horsemen, who, hearing the shouts, rode up and struck
-at him with the butt-ends of their heavy riding-whips. Warding off the
-blows as well as he could with the bar, Jack struck both the horses on the
-head, and the animals plunged so violently, that they not only prevented
-their riders from assailing him, but also kept off the hostlers; and, in
-the confusion that ensued, Jack managed to spring over the fence, and
-shaped his course across the field in the direction of Sir John
-Oldcastle's.
-</p>
-<p>
-The stoppage had materially lessened the distance between him and his
-pursuers, who now amounted to more than a hundred persons, many of whom
-carried lanterns and links. Ascertaining that it was Sheppard of whom this
-concourse was in pursuit, the two horsemen leapt the hedge, and were
-presently close upon him. Like a hare closely pressed, Jack attempted to
-double, but the device only brought him nearer his foes, who were crossing
-the field in every direction, and rending the air with their shouts. The
-uproar was tremendous—men yelling—dogs barking,—but
-above all was heard the stentorian voice of Jonathan, urging them on. Jack
-was so harrassed that he felt half inclined to stand at bay.
-</p>
-<p>
-While he was straining every sinew, his foot slipped, and he fell, head
-foremost, into a deep trench, which he had not observed in the dark. This
-fall saved him, for the horsemen passed over him. Creeping along quickly
-on his hands and knees, he found the entrance to a covered drain, into
-which he crept. He was scarcely concealed when he heard the horsemen, who
-perceived they had overshot their mark, ride back.
-</p>
-<p>
-By this time, Jonathan and the vast mob attending him, had come up, and
-the place was rendered almost as light as day by the links.
-</p>
-<p>
-“He must be somewhere hereabouts,” cried one of the horsemen, dismounting.
-“We were close upon him when he suddenly disappeared.”
- </p>
-<p>
-Jonathan made no answer, but snatching a torch from a bystander, jumped
-into the trench and commenced a diligent search. Just as he had arrived at
-the mouth of the drain, and Jack felt certain he must be discovered, a
-loud shout was raised from the further end of the field that the fugitive
-was caught. All the assemblage, accompanied by Jonathan, set off in this
-direction, when it turned out that the supposed housebreaker was a
-harmless beggar, who had been found asleep under a hedge.
-</p>
-<p>
-Jonathan's vexation at the disappointment was expressed in the bitterest
-imprecations, and he returned as speedily as he could to the trench. But
-he had now lost the precise spot; and thinking he had examined the drain,
-turned his attention to another quarter.
-</p>
-<p>
-Meanwhile, the excitement of the chase had in some degree subsided. The
-crowd dispersed in different directions, and most fortunately a heavy
-shower coming on, put them altogether to flight. Jonathan, however, still
-lingered. He seemed wholly insensible to the rain, though it presently
-descended in torrents, and continued his search as ardently as before.
-</p>
-<p>
-After occupying himself thus for the best part of an hour, he thought Jack
-must have given him the slip. Still, his suspicions were so strong, that
-he ordered Mendez to remain on guard near the spot all night, and, by the
-promise of a large reward induced two other men to keep him company.
-</p>
-<p>
-As he took his departure, he whispered to the Jew: “Take him dead or
-alive; but if we fail now, and you heard him aright in Seacoal Lane, we
-are sure of him at his mother's funeral on Sunday.”
- </p>
-<p>
-<br /><br />
-</p>
-<hr />
-<p>
-<a name="link2HCH0015" id="link2HCH0015"> </a>
-</p>
-<div style="height: 4em;">
-<br /><br /><br /><br />
-</div>
-<h2>
-CHAPTER XXV. HOW JACK SHEPPARD GOT RID OF HIS IRONS.
-</h2>
-<p class="pfirst"><span class="dropcap" style="font-size: 4.00em">A</span>bout an hour after this, Jack ventured to emerge from his place of
-concealment. It was still raining heavily, and profoundly dark. Drenched
-to the skin,—in fact, he had been lying in a bed of muddy water,—and
-chilled to the very bone, he felt so stiff, that he could scarcely move.
-</p>
-<p>
-Listening attentively, he fancied he heard the breathing of some one near
-him, and moved cautiously in the opposite direction. In spite of his care,
-he came in contact with a man, who, endeavouring to grasp him, cried, in
-the voice of Mendez, “Who goes dere? Shpeak! or I fire!”
- </p>
-<p>
-No answer being returned, the Jew instantly discharged his pistol, and
-though the shot did no damage, the flash discovered Sheppard. But as the
-next moment all was profound darkness, Jack easily managed to break away
-from them.
-</p>
-<p>
-Without an idea where he was going, Jack pursued his way through the
-fields; and, as he proceeded, the numbness of his limbs in some degree
-wore off, and his confidence returned. He had need of all the
-inexhaustible energy of his character to support him through his toilsome
-walk over the wet grass, or along the slippery ploughed land. At last, he
-got into a lane, but had not proceeded far when he was again alarmed by
-the sound of a horse's tread.
-</p>
-<p>
-Once more breaking through the hedge he took to the fields. He was now
-almost driven to despair. Wet as he was, he felt if he lay down in the
-grass, he should perish with cold; while, if he sought a night's lodging
-in any asylum, his dress, stained with blood and covered with dirt, would
-infallibly cause him to be secured and delivered into the hands of
-justice. And then the fetters, which were still upon his legs:—how
-was he to get rid of them?
-</p>
-<p>
-Tired and dispirited, he still wandered on. Again returning to the main
-road, he passed through Clapton; and turning off on the left, arrived at
-the foot of Stamford Hill. He walked on for an hour longer, till he could
-scarcely drag one leg after another. At length, he fell down on the road,
-fully expecting each moment would prove his last.
-</p>
-<p>
-How long he continued thus he scarcely knew; but just before dawn, he
-managed to regain his legs, and, crawling up a bank, perceived he was
-within a quarter of a mile of Tottenham. A short way off in the fields he
-descried a sort of shed or cow-house, and thither he contrived to drag his
-weary limbs. Opening the door, he found it littered with straw, on which
-he threw himself, and instantly fell asleep.
-</p>
-<p>
-When he awoke it was late in the day, and raining heavily. For some time
-he could not stir, but felt sick and exhausted. His legs were dreadfully
-swelled; his hands bruised; and his fetters occasioned him intolerable
-pain. His bodily suffering, however, was nothing compared with his mental
-anguish. All the events of the previous day rushed to his recollection;
-and though he had been unintentionally the cause of his mother's death, he
-reproached himself as severely as if he had been her actual murderer.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Had I not been the guilty wretch I am,” he cried, bursting into an agony
-of tears, “she would never have died thus.”
- </p>
-<p>
-This strong feeling of remorse having found a natural vent, in some degree
-subsided, and he addressed himself to his present situation. Rousing
-himself, he went to the door. It had ceased raining, but the atmosphere
-was moist and chill, and the ground deluged by the recent showers. Taking
-up a couple of large stones which lay near, Jack tried to beat the round
-basils of the fetters into an oval form, so as to enable him to slip his
-heels through them.
-</p>
-<p>
-While he was thus employed a farming man came into the barn. Jack
-instantly started to his feet, and the man, alarmed at his appearance, ran
-off to a neighbouring house. Before he could return, Jack had made good
-his retreat; and, wandering about the lanes and hedges, kept out of sight
-as much as possible.
-</p>
-<p>
-On examining his pockets, he found about twenty guineas in gold, and some
-silver. But how to avail himself of it was the question, for in his
-present garb he was sure to be recognised. When night fell, he crept into
-the town of Tottenham. As he passed along the main thoroughfare, he heard
-his own name pronounced, and found that it was a hawker, crying a penny
-history of his escapes. A crowd was collected round the fellow, who was
-rapidly disposing of his stock.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Here's the full, true, and particular account of Jack Sheppard's last
-astonishing and never-to-be-forgotten escape from the Castle of Newgate,”
- bawled the hawker, “with a print of him taken from the life, showing the
-manner, how he was shackled and handcuffed. Only one penny—two
-copies—two pence—thank you, Sir. Here's the——”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Let me have one,” cried a servant maid, running across the street, and in
-her haste forgetting to shut the door,—“here's the money. Master and
-missis have been talking all day long about Jack Sheppard, and I'm dying
-to read his life.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Here you have it, my dear,” returned the hawker. “Sold again!”
- </p>
-<p>
-“If you don't get back quickly, Lucy,” observed a bystander, “Jack
-Sheppard will be in the house before you.”
- </p>
-<p>
-This sally occasioned a general laugh.
-</p>
-<p>
-“If Jack would come to my house, I'd contrive to hide him,” remarked a
-buxom dame. “Poor fellow! I'm glad he has escaped.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Jack seems to be a great favourite with the fair sex,” observed a
-smirking grocer's apprentice.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Of course,” rejoined the bystander, who had just spoken, and who was of a
-cynical turn,—“the greater the rascal, the better they like him.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Here's a particular account of Jack's many robberies and escapes,” roared
-the hawker,—“how he broke into the house of his master, Mr. Wood, at
-Dollis Hill—”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Let me have one,” said a carpenter, who was passing by at the moment,—“Mr.
-Wood was an old friend of mine—and I recollect seeing Jack when he
-was bound 'prentice to him.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“A penny, if you please, Sir,” said the hawker.—“Sold again! Here
-you have the full, true, and particular account of the barbarous murder
-committed by Jack Sheppard and his associate, Joseph Blake, <i>alias</i>
-Blueskin, upon the body of Mrs. Wood—”
- </p>
-<p>
-“That's false!” cried a voice behind him.
-</p>
-<p>
-The man turned at the exclamation, and so did several of the bystanders;
-but they could not make out who had uttered it.
-</p>
-<p>
-Jack, who had been lingering near the group, now walked on.
-</p>
-<p>
-In the middle of the little town stood the shop of a Jew dealer in old
-clothes. The owner was at the door unhooking a few articles of wearing
-apparel which he had exposed outside for sale. Amongst other things, he
-had just brought down an old laced bavaroy, a species of surtout much worn
-at the period.
-</p>
-<p>
-“What do you want for that coat, friend?” asked Jack, as he came up.
-</p>
-<p>
-“More than you'll pay for it, friend,” snuffled the Jew.
-</p>
-<p>
-“How do you know that?” rejoined Jack. “Will you take a guinea for it?”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Double that sum might tempt me,” replied the Jew; “it's a nobleman's
-coat, upon my shoul!”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Here's the money,” replied Jack, taking the coat.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Shall I help you on with it, Sir?” replied the Jew, becoming suddenly
-respectful.
-</p>
-<p>
-“No,” replied Jack.
-</p>
-<p>
-“I half suspect this is a highwayman,” thought the Jew; “he's so ready
-with his cash. I've some other things inside, Sir, which you might wish to
-buy,—some pistols.”
- </p>
-<p>
-Jack was about to comply; but not liking the man's manner, he walked on.
-</p>
-<p>
-Further on, there was a small chandler's shop, where Jack observed an old
-woman seated at the counter, attended by a little girl. Seeing provisions
-in the window, Jack ventured in and bought a loaf. Having secured this,—for
-he was almost famished,—he said that he had lost a hammer and wished
-to purchase one. The old woman told him she had no such article to dispose
-of, but recommended him to a neighbouring blacksmith.
-</p>
-<p>
-Guided by the glare of the forge, which threw a stream of ruddy light
-across the road, Jack soon found the place of which he was in search.
-Entering the workshop, he found the blacksmith occupied in heating the
-tire of a cart wheel. Suspending his labour on Jack's appearance, the man
-demanded his business. Making up a similar story to that which he had told
-the old woman, he said he wanted to purchase a hammer and a file.
-</p>
-<p>
-The man looked hard at him.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Answer me one question first?” he said; “I half suspect you're Jack
-Sheppard.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“I am,” replied Jack, without hesitation; for he felt assured from the
-man's manner that he might confide in him.
-</p>
-<p>
-“You're a bold fellow, Jack,” rejoined the blacksmith. “But you've done
-well to trust me. I'll take off your irons—for I guess that's the
-reason why you want the hammer and file—on one condition.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“What is it?”
- </p>
-<p>
-“That you give 'em to me.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Readily.”
- </p>
-<p>
-Taking Jack into a shed behind the workshop the smith in a short time
-freed him from his fetters. He not only did this, but supplied him with an
-ointment which allayed the swelling of his limbs, and crowned all by
-furnishing him with a jug of excellent ale.
-</p>
-<p>
-“I'm afraid, Jack, you'll come to the gallows,” observed the smith; “buth
-if you do, I'll go to Tyburn to see you. But I'll never part with your
-irons.”
- </p>
-<p>
-Noticing the draggled condition Jack was in, he then fetched him a bucket
-of water, with which Jack cleansed himself as well as he could, and
-thanking the honest smith, who would take nothing for his trouble, left
-the shop.
-</p>
-<p>
-Having made a tolerably good meal upon the loaf, overcome by fatigue, Jack
-turned into a barn in Stoke Newington, and slept till late in the day,
-when he awakened much refreshed. The swelling in his limbs had also
-subsided. It rained heavily all day, so he did not stir forth.
-</p>
-<p>
-Towards night, however, he ventured out, and walked on towards London.
-When he arrived at Hoxton, he found the walls covered with placards
-offering a reward for his apprehension, and he everywhere appeared to be
-the general subject of conversation. Prom a knot of idlers at a
-public-house, he learnt that Jonathan Wild had just ridden past, and that
-his setters were scouring the country in every direction.
-</p>
-<p>
-Entering London, he bent his way towards the west-end; and having some
-knowledge of a secondhand tailor's shop in Rupert Street, proceeded
-thither, and looked out a handsome suit of mourning, with a sword, cloak,
-and hat, and demanded the price. The man asked twelve guineas, but after a
-little bargaining, he came down to ten.
-</p>
-<p>
-Taking his new purchase under his arm, Jack proceeded to a small tavern in
-the same street, where, having ordered dinner, he went to a bed-room to
-attire himself. He had scarcely completed his toilet, when he was startled
-by a noise at the door, and heard his own name pronounced in no friendly
-accents. Fortunately, the window was not far from the ground; so opening
-it gently, he dropped into a backyard, and from thence got into the
-street.
-</p>
-<p>
-Hurrying down the Haymarket, he was arrested by a crowd who were collected
-round a street-singer. Jack paused for a moment, and found that his own
-adventures formed the subject of the ballad. Not daring, however, to
-listen to it, he ran on.
-</p>
-<p>
-<br /><br />
-</p>
-<hr />
-<p>
-<a name="link2HCH0016" id="link2HCH0016"> </a>
-</p>
-<div style="height: 4em;">
-<br /><br /><br /><br />
-</div>
-<h2>
-CHAPTER XXVI. HOW JACK SHEPPARD ATTENDED HIS MOTHER'S FUNERAL.
-</h2>
-<p class="pfirst"><span class="dropcap" style="font-size: 4.00em">T</span>hat night Jack walked to Paddington, and took up his quarters at a small
-tavern, called the Wheat-sheaf, near the green. On the next morning—Sunday—the
-day on which he expected his mother's funeral to take place, he set out
-along the Harrow Road.
-</p>
-<p>
-It was a clear, lovely, October morning. The air was sharp and bracing,
-and the leaves which had taken their autumnal tints were falling from the
-trees. The road which wound by Westbourne Green, gave him a full view of
-the hill of Hampstead with its church, its crest of houses, and its villas
-peeping from out the trees.
-</p>
-<p>
-Jack's heart was too full to allow him to derive any pleasure from this
-scene; so he strolled on without raising his eyes till he arrived at
-Kensal Green. Here he obtained some breakfast, and mounting the hill
-turned off into the fields on the right. Crossing them, he ascended an
-eminence, which, from its singular shape, seems to have been the site of a
-Roman encampment, and which commands a magnificent prospect.
-</p>
-<p>
-Leaning upon a gate he looked down into the valley. It was the very spot
-from which his poor mother had gazed after her vain attempt to rescue him
-at the Mint; but, though he was ignorant of this, her image was alone
-present to him. He beheld the grey tower of Willesden Church, embosomed in
-its grove of trees, now clothed, in all the glowing livery of autumn.
-There was the cottage she had inhabited for so many years,—in those
-fields she had rambled,—at that church she had prayed. And he had
-destroyed all this. But for him she might have been alive and happy. The
-recollection was too painful, and he burst into an agony of tears.
-</p>
-<p>
-Aroused by the sound of the church bells, he resolved, at whatever risk,
-to attend Divine service. With this view, he descended the hill and
-presently found a footpath leading to the church. But he was destined to
-have every tide of feeling awakened—every wound opened. The path he
-had selected conducted him to his mother's humble dwelling. When she
-occupied, it, it was neatness itself; the little porch was overrun with
-creepers—the garden trim and exquisitely kept. Now, it was a
-wilderness of weeds. The glass in the windows was broken—the roof
-unthatched—the walls dilapidated. Jack turned away with an aching
-heart. It seemed an emblem of the ruin he had caused.
-</p>
-<p>
-As he proceeded, other painful reminiscences were aroused. At every step
-he seemed to be haunted by the ghost of the past. There was the stile on
-which Jonathan had sat, and he recollected distinctly the effect of his
-mocking glance—how it had hardened his heart against his mother's
-prayer. “O God!” he exclaimed, “I am severely punished.”
- </p>
-<p>
-He had now gained the high road. The villagers were thronging to church.
-Bounding the corner of a garden wall, he came upon his former place of
-imprisonment. Some rustic hand had written upon the door “JACK SHEPPARD'S
-CAGE;” and upon the wall was affixed a large placard describing his
-person, and offering a reward for his capture. Muffling up his face, Jack
-turned away; but he had not proceeded many steps when he heard a man
-reading aloud an account of his escapes from a newspaper.
-</p>
-<p>
-Hastening to the church, he entered it by the very door near which his
-first crime had been committed. His mother's scream seemed again to ring
-in his ears, and he was so deeply affected that, fearful of exciting
-attention, he was about to quit the sacred edifice, when he was stopped by
-the entrance of Thames, who looked pale as death, with Winifred leaning on
-his arm. They were followed by Mr. Wood in the deepest mourning.
-</p>
-<p>
-Shrinking involuntarily back into the farthest corner of the seat, Jack
-buried his face in his hands. The service began. Jack who had not been in
-a place of worship for many years was powerfully affected. Accidentally
-raising his eyes, he saw that he was perceived by the family from Dollis
-Hill, and that he was an object of the deepest interest to them.
-</p>
-<p>
-As soon as the service was over, Thames contrived to approach him, and
-whispered, “Be cautious,—the funeral will take place after evening
-service.”
- </p>
-<p>
-Jack would not hazard a glance at Winifred; but, quitting the church, got
-into an adjoining meadow, and watched the party slowly ascending the road
-leading to Dollis Hill. At a turn in the road, he perceived Winifred
-looking anxiously towards him, and when she discovered him, she waved her
-hand.
-</p>
-<p>
-Returning to the churchyard, he walked round it; and on the western side,
-near a small yew-tree discovered a new-made grave.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Whose grave is this?” he inquired of a man who was standing near it.
-</p>
-<p>
-“I can't say,” answered the fellow; “but I'll inquire from the sexton,
-William Morgan. Here, Peter,” he added to a curly-headed lad, who was
-playing on one of the grassy tombs, “ask your father to step this way.”
- </p>
-<p>
-The little urchin set off, and presently returned with the sexton.
-</p>
-<p>
-“It's Mrs. Sheppard's grave,—the mother of the famous housebreaker,”
- said Morgan, in answer to Jack's inquiry;—“and it's well they let
-her have Christian burial after all—for they say she destroyed
-herself for her son. The crowner's 'quest sat on her yesterday—and
-if she hadn't been proved out of her mind, she would have been buried at
-four lane-ends.”
- </p>
-<p>
-Jack could stand no more. Placing a piece of money in Morgan's hands, he
-hurried out of the churchyard.
-</p>
-<p>
-“By my soul,” said the sexton, “that's as like Jack Sheppard as any one I
-ever seed i' my born days.”
- </p>
-<p>
-Hastening to the Six Bells, Jack ordered some refreshment, and engaged a
-private room, where he remained till the afternoon absorbed in grief.
-</p>
-<p>
-Meantime, a change had taken place in the weather. The day had become
-suddenly overcast. The wind blew in fitful gusts, and scattered the yellow
-leaves from the elms and horse-chestnuts. Roused by the bell tolling for
-evening service, Jack left the house. On reaching the churchyard, he
-perceived the melancholy procession descending the hill. Just then, a
-carriage drawn by four horses, drove furiously up to the Six Bells; but
-Jack was too much absorbed to take any notice of it.
-</p>
-<p>
-At this moment, the bell began to toll in a peculiar manner, announcing
-the approach of the corpse. The gate was opened; the coffin brought into
-the churchyard; and Jack, whose eyes were filled with tears, saw Mr. Wood
-and Thames pass him, and followed at a foot's pace behind them.
-</p>
-<p>
-Meanwhile, the clergyman, bare-headed and in his surplice, advanced to
-meet them. Having read the three first verses of the impressive service
-appointed for the burial of the dead, he returned to the church, whither
-the coffin was carried through the south-western door, and placed in the
-centre of the aisle—Mr. Wood and Thames taking their places on
-either side of it, and Jack at a little distance behind.
-</p>
-<p>
-Jack had been touched in the morning, but he was now completely
-prostrated. In the midst of the holy place, which he had formerly
-profaned, lay the body of his unfortunate mother, and he could not help
-looking upon her untimely end as the retributive vengeance of Heaven for
-the crime he had committed. His grief was so audible, that it attracted
-the notice of some of the bystanders, and Thames was obliged to beg him to
-control it. In doing this, he chanced to raise his eyes and half fancied
-he beheld, shaded by a pillar at the extremity of the western aisle, the
-horrible countenance of the thief-taker.
-</p>
-<p>
-Before the congregation separated, the clergyman descended from the
-pulpit; and, followed by the coffin-bearers and mourners, and by Jack at a
-respectful distance, entered the churchyard.
-</p>
-<p>
-The carriage, which it has been mentioned drove up to the Six Bells,
-contained four persons,—Jonathan Wild, his two janizaries, and his
-porter, Obadiah Lemon. As soon as they had got out, the vehicle was drawn
-up at the back of a tree near the cage. Having watched the funeral at some
-distance, Jonathan fancied he could discern the figure of Jack; but not
-being quite sure, he entered the church. He was daring enough to have
-seized and carried him off before the whole congregation, but he preferred
-waiting.
-</p>
-<p>
-Satisfied with his scrutiny, he returned, despatched Abraham and Obadiah
-to the northwest corner of the church, placed Quilt behind a buttress near
-the porch, and sheltered himself behind one of the mighty elms.
-</p>
-<p>
-The funeral procession had now approached the grave, around which many of
-the congregation, who were deeply interested by the sad ceremonial, had
-gathered. A slight rain fell at the time; and a few leaves, caught by the
-eddies, whirled around. Jonathan mixed with the group, and, sure of his
-prey, abided his time.
-</p>
-<p>
-The clergyman, meanwhile, proceeded with the service, while the coffin was
-deposited at the brink of the grave.
-</p>
-<p>
-Just as the attendants were preparing to lower the corpse into the earth,
-Jack fell on his knees beside the coffin, uttering the wildest
-exclamations of grief, reproaching himself with the murder of his mother,
-and invoking the vengeance of Heaven on his own head.
-</p>
-<p>
-A murmur ran through the assemblage, by several of whom Jack was
-recognised. But such was the violence of his grief,—such the
-compunction he exhibited, that all but one looked on with an eye of
-compassion. That person advanced towards him.
-</p>
-<p>
-“I have killed her,” cried Jack.
-</p>
-<p>
-“You have,” rejoined Jonathan, laying a forcible grasp on his shoulder.
-“You are my prisoner.”
- </p>
-<p>
-<br /><br />
-</p>
-<hr />
-<p>
-<a name="linkimage-0008" id="linkimage-0008"> </a>
-</p>
-<div class="fig" style="width:35%;">
-<img src="images/275s.jpg" alt="275s " width="100%" /><br />
-</div>
-<h4>
-<a href="images/275.jpg"><i>Original Size</i></a> -- <a
-href="images/275m.jpg"><i>Medium-Size</i></a>
-</h4>
-<p>
-Jack started to his feet; but before he could defend himself, his right
-arm was grasped by the Jew who had silently approached him.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Hell-hounds!” he cried; “release me!”
- </p>
-<p>
-At the same moment, Quilt Arnold rushed forward with such haste, that,
-stumbling over William Morgan, he precipitated him into the grave.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Wretch!” cried Jack. “Are you not content with the crimes you have
-committed,—but you must carry your villany to this point. Look at
-the poor victim at your feet.”
- </p>
-<p>
-Jonathan made no reply, but ordered his myrmidons to drag the prisoner
-along.
-</p>
-<p>
-Thames, meanwhile, had drawn his sword, and was about to rush upon
-Jonathan; but he was withheld by Wood.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Do not shed more blood,” cried the carpenter.
-</p>
-<p>
-Groans and hoots were now raised by the crowd, and there was an evident
-disposition to rescue. A small brickbat was thrown, which struck Jonathan
-in the face.
-</p>
-<p>
-“You shall not pass,” cried several of the crowd.
-</p>
-<p>
-“I knew his poor mother, and for her sake I'll not see this done,” cried
-John Dump.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Slip on the handcuffs,” cried the thief-taker. “And now let's see who'll
-dare to oppose me. I am Jonathan Wild. I have arrested him in the King's
-name.”
- </p>
-<p>
-A deep indignant groan followed.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Let me see the earth thrown over her,” implored Jack; “and take me where
-you please.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“No,” thundered Wild.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Allow him that small grace,” cried Wood.
-</p>
-<p>
-“No, I tell you,” rejoined Jonathan, shouldering his way out of the crowd.
-</p>
-<p>
-“My mother,—my poor mother!” exclaimed Jack.
-</p>
-<p>
-But, in spite of his outcries and resistance, he was dragged along by
-Jonathan and his janizaries.
-</p>
-<p>
-At the eastern gate of the churchyard stood the carriage with the steps
-lowered. The mob pursued the thief-taker and his party all the way, and
-such missiles as could be collected were hurled at them. They even
-threatened to cut the traces and take off the wheels from the carriage.
-The Jew got in first. The prisoner was then thrust in by Quilt. Before
-Jonathan followed he turned to face his assailants.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Back!” he cried fiercely. “I am an officer in the execution of my duty.
-And he who opposes me in it shall feel the weight of my hand.”
- </p>
-<p>
-He then sprung into the coach, the door of which was closed by Obadiah,
-who mounted the box.
-</p>
-<p>
-“To Newgate,” cried Jonathan, putting his head out of the window.
-</p>
-<p>
-A deep roar followed this order, and several missiles were launched at the
-vehicle, which was driven off at a furious pace.
-</p>
-<p>
-And while her son was reconveyed to prison the body of the unfortunate
-Mrs. Sheppard was committed to the earth.
-</p>
-<p>
-<br /><br />
-</p>
-<hr />
-<p>
-<a name="link2HCH0017" id="link2HCH0017"> </a>
-</p>
-<div style="height: 4em;">
-<br /><br /><br /><br />
-</div>
-<h2>
-CHAPTER XXVII. HOW JACK SHEPPARD WAS BROUGHT BACK TO NEWGATE.
-</h2>
-<p class="pfirst"><span class="dropcap" style="font-size: 4.00em">J</span>ack Sheppard's escape from Newgate on the night of the 15th of October
-was not discovered till the following morning; for although the
-intelligence was brought by several parties to the Lodge in the course of
-the night, Austin, who was the officer in attendance, paid no attention to
-them.
-</p>
-<p>
-After pursuing the fugitive as before related, Jonathan Wild returned to
-his own habitation, where he was occupied during the remainder of the
-night with Quilt Arnold and Obadiah Lemon in removing everything which, in
-case of a search, might tend to criminate him. Satisfied in this respect,
-he flung himself into a chair, for his iron frame seldom required the
-indulgence of a bed, and sought an hour's repose before he began the
-villanies of another day.
-</p>
-<p>
-He was aroused from his slumber, about six o'clock, by the return of
-Abraham Mendez, who not choosing to confess that Jack had eluded his
-vigilance, contended himself with stating that he had kept watch till
-daybreak, when he had carefully searched the field, and, finding no trace
-of him, had thought it better to return.
-</p>
-<p>
-This information was received by Jonathan with a lowering brow. He
-comforted himself, however, with the certainty which he felt of capturing
-his prey on the Sunday. His breakfast despatched, which he ate with a
-wolfish appetite, he walked over to Newgate, chuckling as he went at the
-consternation which his appearance would create amongst the turnkeys.
-</p>
-<p>
-Entering the Lodge, the first person he beheld was Austin, who was only
-just up, and whose toilette appeared scarcely completed. A glance
-satisfied Jonathan that the turnkey was not aware of the prisoner's
-escape; and he resolved not to destroy what he considered a good jest, by
-a premature disclosure of it.
-</p>
-<p>
-“You are out betimes this morning, Mr. Wild,” observed Austin, as he put
-on his coat, and adjusted his minor bob. “Something fresh on hand, I
-suppose?”
- </p>
-<p>
-“I'm come to inquire after Jack Sheppard,” returned Jonathan.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Don't alarm yourself about him, Sir,” replied Austin. “He's safe enough,
-I assure you.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“I should like to satisfy myself on that score,” rejoined Wild, drily.
-</p>
-<p>
-“So you shall, Sir,” replied Austin, who at this moment recollected, with
-some uneasiness, the applications at the lodge-door during the night. “I
-hope you don't imagine anything has gone wrong, Sir.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“It matters not what I think,” replied Wild. “Come with me to the Castle.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Instantly, Sir,” replied Austin; “instantly. Here, Caliban, attend to the
-door, and keep the wicket locked till I return. D'ye hear. Now, Sir.”
- </p>
-<p>
-Taking the keys, he led the way, followed by Jonathan, who chuckled
-internally at the shock that awaited the poor fellow.
-</p>
-<p>
-The door was opened, and Austin entered the cell, when he absolutely
-recoiled before the spectacle he beheld, and could scarcely have looked
-more alarmed if the prison had tumbled about his ears. Petrified and
-speechless, he turned an imploring look at Wild, who was himself filled
-with astonishment at the pile of rubbish lying before him.
-</p>
-<p>
-“'Sdeath!” cried Jonathan, staring at the breach in the wall. “Some one <i>must</i>
-have assisted him. Unless he has dealings with the devil, he could never
-have done this alone.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“I firmly believe he <i>has</i> dealings with the devil,” replied Austin,
-trembling from head to foot. “But, perhaps, he has not got beyond the room
-above. It's as strong, if not stronger, than this. I'll see.”
- </p>
-<p>
-So saying, he scrambled over the rubbish, and got into the chimney. But
-though the breach was large enough to admit him below, he could not
-squeeze his bulky person through the aperture into the Red Room.
-</p>
-<p>
-“I believe he's gone,” he said, returning to Jonathan. “The door's open,
-and the room empty.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“You believe—you <i>know</i> it,” replied Jonathan, fixing one of
-his sternest and most searching glances upon him. “Nothing you can say to
-the contrary will convince me that you have not been accessory to his
-flight.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“I, Sir!—I swear——”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Tush!” interrupted Jonathan, harshly. “I shall state my suspicions to the
-governor. Come down with me to the Lodge directly. All further
-examinations must be conducted in the presence of proper witnesses.”
- </p>
-<p>
-With these words, he strode out of the room, darted down the stone stairs,
-and, on his arrival at the Lodge, seized the rope of the great bell
-communicating with the interior of the prison, which he rang violently. As
-this was never done, except in some case of great emergency, the
-application was instantly answered by all the other turnkeys, by Marvel,
-the four partners, and Mrs. Spurling. Nothing could exceed the dismay of
-these personages when they learnt why they had been summoned. All seemed
-infected with Austin's terrors except Mrs. Spurling, who did not dare to
-exhibit her satisfaction otherwise than by privately pinching the arm of
-her expected husband.
-</p>
-<p>
-Headed by Jonathan, all the turnkeys then repaired to the upper part of
-the jail, and, approaching the Red Room by a circuitous route, several
-doors were unlocked, and they came upon the scene of Jack's exploits.
-Stopping before each door, they took up the plates of the locks, examined
-the ponderous bolts, and were struck with the utmost astonishment at what
-they beheld.
-</p>
-<p>
-Arriving at the chapel, their wonder increased. All the jailers declared
-it utterly impossible he could have accomplished his astonishing task
-unaided; but who had lent him assistance was a question they were unable
-to answer. Proceeding to the entry to the Lower Leads, they came to the
-two strong doors, and their surprise was so great at Jack's marvellous
-performance, that they could scarcely persuade themselves that human
-ingenuity could have accomplished it.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Here's a door,” remarked Ireton, when he got to that nearest the leads,
-“which I could have sworn would have resisted anything. I shall have no
-faith in future in bolts and bars.”
- </p>
-<p>
-Mounting the roof of the prison, they traced the fugitive's course to the
-further extremity of the building, where they found his blanket attached
-to the spike proving that he escaped in that direction.
-</p>
-<p>
-After severely examining Austin, and finding it proved, on the testimony
-of his fellow-jailers, that he could not have aided Jack in his flight,
-Jonathan retracted his harsh sentence, and even went so far as to say that
-he would act as mediator between him and the governor.
-</p>
-<p>
-This was some satisfaction to the poor fellow, who was dreadfully
-frightened, as indeed he might well be, it being the opinion of the
-jailers and others who afterwards examined the place, that Jack had
-accomplished, single-handed, in a few hours, and, as far as it could be
-ascertained, with imperfect implements, what it would have taken half a
-dozen men several days, provided with proper tools, to effect. In their
-opinion a hundred pounds would not repair the damage done to the prison.
-</p>
-<p>
-As soon as Jack's escape became known, thousands of persons flocked to
-Newgate to behold his workmanship; and the jailers reaped am abundant
-harvest from their curiosity.
-</p>
-<p>
-Jonathan, meanwhile, maintained profound secrecy as to his hopes of
-capturing the fugitive; and when Jack was brought back to Newgate on the
-Sunday evening, his arrival was wholly unexpected.
-</p>
-<p>
-At a little after five, on that day, four horses dashed round the corner
-of the Old Bailey, and drew up before the door of the Lodge. Hearing the
-stoppage, Austin rushed out, and could scarcely believe his eyes when he
-beheld Jack Sheppard in the custody of Quilt Arnold and Abraham Mendez.
-</p>
-<p>
-Jack's recapture was speedily made known to all the officers of the jail,
-and the Lodge was instantly crowded. The delight of the turnkeys was
-beyond all bounds; but poor Mrs. Spurling was in a state of distraction
-and began to abuse Jonathan so violently that her future husband was
-obliged to lay forcible hands upon her and drag her away.
-</p>
-<p>
-By Wild's command the prisoner was taken to the Condemned Hold, whither he
-was followed by the whole posse of officers and by the partners; two of
-whom carried large hammers and two the fetters. There was only one
-prisoner in the ward. He was chained to the ground, but started up at
-their approach. It was Blueskin. When he beheld Jack he uttered a deep
-groan.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Captain,” he cried, in a voice of the bitterest anguish, “have these dogs
-again hunted you down? If you hadn't been so unlucky, I should have been
-with you before to-morrow night.”
- </p>
-<p>
-Jack made no answer, nor did he even cast his eyes upon his follower. But
-Jonathan, fixing a terrible look upon him, cried.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Ha! say you so? You must be looked to. My lads,” he continued, addressing
-the partners; “when you've finished this job give that fellow a fresh set
-of darbies. I suspect he has been at work upon those he has on.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“The link of the chain next the staple is sawn through,” said Ireton,
-stooping to examine Blueskin's fetters.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Search him and iron him afresh;” commanded Jonathan. “But first let us
-secure Sheppard. We'll then remove them both to the Middle Stone Hold,
-where a watch shall be kept over them night and day till they're taken to
-Tyburn. As they're so fond of each other's society they shan't part
-company even on that occasion, but shall swing from the same tree.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“You'll never live to see that day,” cried Blueskin, fixing a menacing
-look upon him.
-</p>
-<p>
-“What weight are these irons?” asked Jonathan, coolly addressing one of
-the partners.
-</p>
-<p>
-“More than three hundred weight, Sir,” replied the man. “They're the
-heaviest set we have,—and were forged expressly for Captain
-Sheppard.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“They're not half heavy enough,” replied Wild. “Let him be handcuffed, and
-doubly ironed on both legs; and when we get him into the Stone Ward, he
-shall not only be chained down to the ground, but shall have two
-additional fetters running through the main links, fastened on each side
-of him. We'll see whether he'll get rid of his new bonds?” he added with a
-brutal laugh, which was echoed by the bystanders.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Mark me,” said Jack, sternly; “I have twice broken out of this prison in
-spite of all your precautions. And were you to load me with thrice the
-weight of iron you have ordered you should not prevent my escaping a third
-time.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“That's right, Captain,” cried Blueskin. “We'll give them the slip yet,
-and hang that butcherly thief-taker upon his own gibbet.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Be silent dog,” cried Jonathan. And with his clenched hand he struck him
-a violent blow in the face.
-</p>
-<p>
-For the first time, perhaps, in his life, he repented of his brutality.
-The blow was scarcely dealt, when, with a bound like that of a tiger,
-Blueskin sprang upon him. The chain, which had been partially cut through,
-snapped near the staple. Before any assistance could be rendered by the
-jailers, who stood astounded, Blueskin had got Wild in his clutches. His
-strength has been described as prodigious; but now, heightened by his
-desire for vengeance, it was irresistible. Jonathan, though a very
-powerful man, was like an infant in his gripe. Catching hold of his chin,
-he bent back the neck, while with his left hand he pulled out a clasp
-knife, which he opened with his teeth, and grasping Wild's head with his
-arm, notwithstanding his resistance, cut deeply into his throat. The folds
-of a thick muslin neckcloth in some degree protected him, but the gash was
-desperate. Blueskin drew the knife across his throat a second time,
-widening and deepening the wound; and wrenching back the head to get it
-into a more favourable position, would infallibly have severed it from the
-trunk, if the officers, who by this time had recovered from their terror,
-had not thrown themselves upon him, and withheld him.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Now's your time,” cried Blueskin, struggling desperately with his
-assailants and inflicting severe cuts with his knife. “Fly, Captain—fly!”
- </p>
-<p>
-Aroused to a sense of the possibility of escape, Jack, who had viewed the
-deadly assault with savage satisfaction, burst from his captors and made
-for the door. Blueskin fought his way towards it, and exerting all his
-strength, cutting right and left as he proceeded, reached it at the same
-time. Jack in all probability, would have escaped, if Langley, who was
-left in the Lodge, had not been alarmed at the noise and rushed thither.
-Seeing Jack at liberty, he instantly seized him, and a struggle commenced.
-</p>
-<p>
-At this moment, Blueskin came up, and kept off the officers with his
-knife. He used his utmost efforts to liberate Jack from Langley, but
-closely pressed on all sides, he was not able to render any effectual
-assistance.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Fly!” cried Jack; “escape if you can; don't mind me.”
- </p>
-<p>
-Casting one look of anguish at his leader, Blueskin then darted down the
-passage.
-</p>
-<p>
-The only persons in the Lodge were Mrs. Spurling and Marvel. Hearing the
-noise of the scuffle, the tapstress, fancying it was Jack making an effort
-to escape, in spite of the remonstrances of the executioner, threw open
-the wicket. Blueskin therefore had nothing to stop him. Dashing through
-the open door, he crossed the Old Bailey, plunged into a narrow court on
-the opposite side of the way, and was out of sight in a minute, baffling
-all pursuit.
-</p>
-<p>
-On their return, the jailers raised up Jonathan, who was weltering in his
-blood, and who appeared to be dying. Efforts were made to staunch his
-wounds and surgical assistance sent for.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Has he escaped?” asked the thief-taker, faintly.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Blueskin,” said Ireton.
-</p>
-<p>
-“No—Sheppard?” rejoined Wild.
-</p>
-<p>
-“No, no, Sir,” replied Ireton. “He's here.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“That's right,” replied Wild, with a ghastly smile. “Remove him to the
-Middle Stone Hold,—watch over him night and day, do you mind?”
- </p>
-<p>
-“I do, Sir.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Irons—heavy irons—night and day.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Depend upon it, Sir.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Go with him to Tyburn,—never lose sight of him till the noose is
-tied. Where's Marvel?”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Here, Sir,” replied the executioner.
-</p>
-<p>
-“A hundred guineas if you hang Jack Sheppard. I have it about me. Take it,
-if I die.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Never fear, Sir,” replied Marvel.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Oh! that I could live to see it,” gasped Jonathan. And with a hideous
-expression of pain, he fainted.
-</p>
-<p>
-“He's dead,” exclaimed Austin.
-</p>
-<p>
-“I am content,” said Jack. “My mother is avenged. Take me to the Stone
-Room. Blueskin, you are a true friend.”
- </p>
-<p>
-The body of Jonathan was then conveyed to his own habitation, while Jack
-was taken to the Middle Stone Room, and ironed in the manner Wild had
-directed.
-</p>
-<p>
-<br /><br />
-</p>
-<hr />
-<p>
-<a name="link2HCH0018" id="link2HCH0018"> </a>
-</p>
-<div style="height: 4em;">
-<br /><br /><br /><br />
-</div>
-<h2>
-CHAPTER XXVIII. WHAT HAPPENED AT DOLLIS HILL.
-</h2>
-<p class="pfirst"><span class="dropcap" style="font-size: 4.00em">A</span>t length this tragedy is at an end,” said Mr. Wood, as, having seen the
-earth thrown over the remains of the unfortunate Mrs. Sheppard, he turned
-to quit the churchyard. “Let us hope that, like her who 'loved much,' her
-sins are forgiven her.”
- </p>
-<p>
-Without another word, and accompanied by Thames, he then took his way to
-Dollis Hill in a state of the deepest depression. Thames did not attempt
-to offer him any consolation, for he was almost as much dejected. The
-weather harmonized with their feelings. It rained slightly, and a thick
-mist gathered in the air, and obscured the beautiful prospect.
-</p>
-<p>
-On his arrival at Dollis Hill, Mr. Wood was so much exhausted that he was
-obliged to retire to his own room, where he continued for some hours
-overpowered by grief. The two lovers sat together, and their sole
-discourse turned upon Jack and his ill-fated mother.
-</p>
-<p>
-As the night advanced, Mr. Wood again made his appearance in a more
-composed frame of mind, and, at his daughter's earnest solicitation, was
-induced to partake of some refreshment. An hour was then passed in
-conversation as to the possibility of rendering any assistance to Jack; in
-deploring his unhappy destiny; and in the consideration of the course to
-be pursued in reference to Jonathan Wild.
-</p>
-<p>
-While they were thus occupied, a maid-servant entered the room, and stated
-that a person was without who had a packet for Captain Darrell, which must
-be delivered into his own hands. Notwithstanding the remonstrances of Wood
-and Winifred, Thames instantly followed the domestic, and found a man,
-with his face muffled up, at the door, as she had described. Somewhat
-alarmed at his appearance, Thames laid his hand upon his sword.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Fear nothing, Sir,” said the man, in a voice which Thames instantly
-recognised as that of Blueskin. “I am come to render you a service. There
-are the packets which my Captain hazarded his life to procure for you, and
-which he said would establish your right to the estates of the Trenchard
-family. There are also the letters which were scattered about Wild's room
-after the murder of Sir Rowland. And there,” he added, placing in his
-hands a heavy bag of money, and a pocket-book, “is a sum little short of
-fifteen thousand pounds.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“How have you procured these things?” asked Thames, in the utmost
-astonishment.
-</p>
-<p>
-“I carried them off on the fatal night when we got into Wild's house, and
-you were struck down,” replied Blueskin. “They have ever since been
-deposited in a place of safety. You have nothing more to fear from Wild.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“How so?” asked Thames.
-</p>
-<p>
-“I have saved the executioner a labour, by cutting his throat,” replied
-Blueskin. “And, may I be cursed if I ever did anything in my whole life
-which gave me so much satisfaction.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Almighty God! is this possible?” exclaimed Thames.
-</p>
-<p>
-“You will find it true,” replied Blueskin. “All I regret is, that I failed
-in liberating the Captain. If he had got off, they might have hanged me,
-and welcome.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“What can be done for him?” cried Thames.
-</p>
-<p>
-“That's not an easy question to answer,” rejoined Blueskin. “But I shall
-watch night and day about Newgate, in the hope of getting him out. He
-wouldn't require my aid, but before I stopped Jonathan's mouth, he had
-ordered him to be doubly-ironed, and constantly watched. And, though the
-villain can't see his orders executed, I've no doubt some one else will.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Poor Jack!” exclaimed Thames. “I would sacrifice all my fortune—all
-my hopes—to liberate him.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“If you're in earnest,” rejoined Blueskin, “give me that bag of gold. It
-contains a thousand pounds; and, if all other schemes fail, I'll engage to
-free him on the way to Tyburn.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“May I trust you?” hesitated Thames.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Why did I not keep the money when I had it?” returned Blueskin, angrily.
-“Not a farthing of it shall be expended except in the Captain's service.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Take it,” replied Thames.
-</p>
-<p>
-“You have saved his life,” replied Blueskin. “And now, mark me. You owe
-what I have done for you, to him, not to me. Had I not known that you and
-your affianced bride are dearer to him than life I should have used this
-money to secure my own safety. Take it, and take the estates, in Captain
-Sheppard's name. Promise me one thing before I leave you.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“What is it?” asked Thames.
-</p>
-<p>
-“If the Captain <i>is</i> taken to Tyburn, be near the place of execution—at
-the end of the Edgeware Road.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“I will.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“In case of need you will lend a helping hand?”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Yes—yes.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Swear it!”
- </p>
-<p>
-“I do.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Enough!” rejoined Blueskin. And he departed, just as Wood, who had become
-alarmed by Thames's long absence, made his appearance with a blunderbuss
-in his hand.
-</p>
-<p>
-Hastily acquainting him with the treasures he had unexpectedly obtained,
-Thames returned to the room to apprize Winifred of his good fortune. The
-packets were hastily broken open; and, while Wood was absorbed in the
-perusal of the despatch addressed to him by Sir Rowland, Thames sought
-out, and found the letter which he had been prevented from finishing on
-the fatal night at Jonathan Wild's. As soon as he had read it, he let it
-fall from his grasp.
-</p>
-<p>
-Winifred instantly picked it up.
-</p>
-<p>
-“You are no longer Thames Darrell,” she said, casting her eyes rapidly
-over it; “but the Marquis de Chatillon.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“My father was of the blood-royal of France,” exclaimed Thames.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Eh-day! what's this?” cried Wood, looking up from beneath his spectacles.
-“Who—who is the Marquis de Chatillon?”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Your adopted son, Thames Darrell,” answered Winifred.
-</p>
-<p>
-“And the Marchioness is your daughter,” added Thames.
-</p>
-<p>
-“O, Lord!” ejaculated Wood. “My head fairly turns round. So many
-distresses—so many joys coming at the same time are too much for me.
-Read that letter, Thames—my lord marquis, I mean. Read it, and
-you'll find that your unfortunate uncle, Sir Rowland, surrenders to you
-all the estates in Lancashire. You've nothing to do but to take
-possession.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“What a strange history is mine!” said Thames. “Kidnapped, and sent to
-France by one uncle, it was my lot to fall into the hands of another,—my
-father's own brother, the Marshal Gaucher de Chatillon; to whom, and to
-the Cardinal Dubois, I owed all my good fortune.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“The ways of Providence are inscrutable,” observed Wood.
-</p>
-<p>
-“When in France, I heard from the Marshal that his brother had perished in
-London on the night of the Great Storm. It was supposed he was drowned in
-crossing the river, as his body had never been found. Little did I imagine
-at the time that it was my own father to whom he referred.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“I think I remember reading something about your father in the papers,”
- observed Wood. “Wasn't he in some way connected with the Jacobite plots?”
- </p>
-<p>
-“He was,” replied Thames. “He had been many years in this country before
-his assassination took place. In this letter, which is addressed to my
-ill-fated mother, he speaks of his friendship for Sir Rowland, whom it
-seems he had known abroad; but entreats her to keep the marriage secret
-for a time, for reasons which are not fully developed.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“And so Sir Rowland murdered his friend,” remarked Wood. “Crime upon
-crime.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Unconsciously, perhaps,” replied Thames. “But be it as it may, he is now
-beyond the reach of earthly punishment.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“But Wild still lives,” cried Wood.
-</p>
-<p>
-“He; also, has paid the penalty of his offences,” returned Thames. “He has
-fallen by the hand of Blueskin, who brought me these packets.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Thank God for that!” cried Wood, heartily. “I could almost forgive the
-wretch the injury he did me in depriving me of my poor dear wife—No,
-not quite <i>that</i>,” he added, a little confused.
-</p>
-<p>
-“And now,” said Thames, (for we must still preserve the name,) “you will
-no longer defer my happiness.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Hold!” interposed Winifred, gravely. “I release you from your promise. A
-carpenter's daughter is no fit match for a peer of France.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“If my dignity must be purchased by the loss of you, I renounce it,” cried
-Thames. “You will not make it valueless in my eyes,” he added, catching
-her in his arms, and pressing her to his breast.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Be it as you please,” replied Winifred. “My lips would belie my heart
-were I to refuse you.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“And now, father, your blessing—your consent!” cried Thames.
-</p>
-<p>
-“You have both,” replied Wood, fervently. “I am too much honoured—too
-happy in the union. Oh! that I should live to be father-in-law to a peer
-of France! What would my poor wife say to it, if she could come to life
-again? Oh, Thames!—my lord marquis, I mean—you have made me
-the happiest—the proudest of mankind.”
- </p>
-<p>
-Not many days after this event, on a bright October morning, the bells
-rang a merry peal from the old gray tower of Willesden church. All the
-village was assembled in the churchyard. Young and old were dressed in
-their gayest apparel; and it was evident from the smiles that lighted up
-every countenance, from the roguish looks of the younger swains, and the
-demure expression of several pretty rustic maidens, that a ceremony, which
-never fails to interest all classes,—a wedding,—was about to
-take place.
-</p>
-<p>
-At the gate opening upon the road leading to Dollis Hill were stationed
-William Morgan and John Dump. Presently, two carriages dashed down the
-hill, and drew up before it. From the first of these alighted Thames, or,
-as he must now be styled, the Marquis de Chatillon. From the second
-descended Mr. Wood—and after him came his daughter.
-</p>
-<p>
-The sun never shone upon a lovelier couple than now approached the altar.
-The church was crowded to excess by the numbers eager to witness the
-ceremony; and as soon as it was over the wedded pair were followed to the
-carriage, and the loudest benedictions uttered for their happiness.
-</p>
-<p>
-In spite of the tumultuous joy which agitated him, the bridegroom could
-not prevent the intrusion of some saddening thoughts, as he reflected upon
-the melancholy scene which he had so recently witnessed in the same place.
-</p>
-<p>
-The youthful couple had been seated in the carriage a few minutes when
-they were joined by Mr. Wood, who had merely absented himself to see that
-a public breakfast, which he had ordered at the Six Bells for all who
-chose to partake of it, was in readiness. He likewise gave directions that
-in the after part of the day a whole bullock should be roasted on the
-green and distributed, together with a barrel of the strongest ale.
-</p>
-<p>
-In the evening, a band of village musicians, accompanied by most of the
-young inhabitants of Willesden, strolled out to Dollis Hill, where they
-formed a rustic concert under the great elm before the door. Here they
-were regaled with another plentiful meal by the hospitable carpenter, who
-personally superintended the repast.
-</p>
-<p>
-These festivities, however, were not witnessed by the newly-married pair,
-who had departed immediately after the ceremony for Manchester.
-</p>
-<p>
-<br /><br />
-</p>
-<hr />
-<p>
-<a name="link2HCH0019" id="link2HCH0019"> </a>
-</p>
-<div style="height: 4em;">
-<br /><br /><br /><br />
-</div>
-<h2>
-CHAPTER XXIX. HOW JACK SHEPPARD WAS TAKEN TO WESTMINSTER HALL.
-</h2>
-<p class="pfirst"><span class="dropcap" style="font-size: 4.00em">L</span>oaded with the heaviest fetters, and constantly watched by two of the
-jailers' assistants, who neither quitted him for a single moment, nor
-suffered any visitor to approach him, Jack Sheppard found all attempts to
-escape impracticable.
-</p>
-<p>
-He was confined in the Middle Stone Ward, a spacious apartment, with good
-light and air, situated over the gateway on the western side, and allotted
-to him, not for his own convenience, but for that of the keepers, who, if
-he had been placed in a gloomier or more incommodious dungeon, would have
-necessarily had to share it with him.
-</p>
-<p>
-Through this, his last trial, Jack's spirits never deserted him. He seemed
-resigned but cheerful, and held frequent and serious discourses with the
-ordinary, who felt satisfied of his sincere penitence. The only
-circumstance which served to awaken a darker feeling in his breast was,
-that his implacable foe Jonathan Wild had survived the wound inflicted by
-Blueskin, and was slowly recovering.
-</p>
-<p>
-As soon as he could be moved with safety, Jonathan had himself transported
-to Newgate, where he was carried into the Middle Ward, that he might feast
-his eyes upon his victim. Having seen every precaution taken to ensure his
-safe custody, he departed, muttering to himself, “I shall yet live to see
-him hanged—I shall live to see him hanged.”
- </p>
-<p>
-Animated by his insatiate desire of vengeance, he seemed to gain strength
-daily,—so much so, that within a fortnight after receiving his wound
-he was able to stir abroad.
-</p>
-<p>
-On Thursday, the 12th of November, after having endured nearly a month's
-imprisonment, Jack Sheppard was conveyed from Newgate to Westminster Hall.
-He was placed in a coach, handcuffed, and heavily fettered, and guarded by
-a vast posse of officers to Temple Bar, where a fresh relay of constables
-escorted him to Westminster.
-</p>
-<p>
-By this time, Jack's reputation had risen to such a height with the
-populace,—his exploits having become the universal theme of
-discourse, that the streets were almost impassable for the crowds
-collected to obtain a view of him. The vast area in front of Westminster
-Hall was thronged with people, and it was only by a vigorous application
-of their staves that the constables could force a passage for the vehicle.
-At length, however, the prisoner was got out, when such was the rush of
-the multitude that several persons were trampled down, and received severe
-injuries.
-</p>
-<p>
-Arrived in the Hall, the prisoner's handcuffs were removed, and he was
-taken before the Court of King's Bench. The record of his conviction at
-the Old Bailey sessions was then read; and as no objection was offered to
-it, the Attorney-General moved that his execution might take place on
-Monday next. Upon this, Jack earnestly and eloquently addressed himself to
-the bench, and besought that a petition which he had prepared to be laid
-before the King might be read. This request, however, was refused; and he
-was told that the only way in which he could entitle himself to his
-Majesty's clemency would be by discovering who had abetted him in his last
-escape; the strongest suspicions being entertained that he had not
-affected it alone.
-</p>
-<p>
-Sheppard replied by a solemn assertion, “that he had received no
-assistance except from Heaven.”—An answer for which he was
-immediately reprimanded by the court. It having been stated that it was
-wholly impossible he could have removed his irons in the way he
-represented, he offered, if his handcuffs were replaced, to take them off
-in the presence of the court. The proposal, however, was not acceded to;
-and the Chief Justice Powis, after enumerating his various offences and
-commenting upon their heinousness, awarded sentence of death against him
-for the following Monday.
-</p>
-<p>
-As Jack was removed, he noticed Jonathan Wild at a little distance from
-him, eyeing him with a look of the most savage satisfaction. The
-thief-taker's throat was bound up with thick folds of linen, and his face
-had a ghastly and cadaverous look, which communicated an undefinable and
-horrible expression to his glances.
-</p>
-<p>
-Meanwhile, the mob outside had prodigiously increased, and had begun to
-exhibit some disposition to riot. The coach in which the prisoner had been
-conveyed was already broken to pieces, and the driver was glad to escape
-with life. Terrific shouts were raised by the rabble, who threatened to
-tear Wild in pieces if he showed himself.
-</p>
-<p>
-Amid this tumult, several men armed with tremendous bludgeons, with their
-faces besmeared with grease and soot, and otherwise disguised, were
-observed to be urging the populace to attempt a rescue. They were headed
-by an athletic-looking, swarthy-featured man, who was armed with a
-cutlass, which he waved over his head to cheer on his companions.
-</p>
-<p>
-These desperadoes had been the most active in demolishing the coach, and
-now, being supported by the rabble, they audaciously approached the very
-portals of the ancient Hall. The shouts, yells, and groans which they
-uttered, and which were echoed by the concourse in the rear, were
-perfectly frightful.
-</p>
-<p>
-Jonathan, who with the other constables had reconnoitred this band, and
-recognised in its ring-leader, Blueskin, commanded the constables to
-follow him, and made a sally for the purpose of seizing him. Enfeebled by
-his wound, Wild had lost much of his strength, though nothing of his
-ferocity and energy,—and fiercely assailing Blueskin, he made a
-desperate but unsuccessful attempt to apprehend him.
-</p>
-<p>
-He was, however, instantly beaten back; and the fury of the mob was so
-great that it was with difficulty he could effect a retreat. The whole
-force of the constables, jailers and others was required to keep the crowd
-out of the Hall. The doors were closed and barricaded, and the mob
-threatened to burst them open if Jack was not delivered to them.
-</p>
-<p>
-Things now began to wear so serious a aspect that a messenger was secretly
-despatched to the Savoy for troops, and in half an hour a regiment of the
-guards arrived, who by dint of great exertion succeeded in partially
-dispersing the tumultuous assemblage. Another coach was then procured, in
-which the prisoner was placed.
-</p>
-<p>
-Jack's appearance was hailed with the loudest cheers, but when Jonathan
-followed and took a place beside him in the vehicle, determined, he said,
-never to lose sight of him, the abhorrence of the multitude was expressed
-by execrations, hoots, and yells of the most terrific kind. So dreadful
-were these shouts as to produce an effect upon the hardened feelings of
-Jonathan, who shrank out of sight.
-</p>
-<p>
-It was well for him that he had taken his place by Sheppard, as regard for
-the latter alone prevented the deadliest missiles being hurled at him. As
-it was, the mob went on alternately hooting and huzzaing as the names of
-Wild and Sheppard were pronounced, while some individuals, bolder than the
-rest, thrust their faces into the coach-window, and assured Jack that he
-should never be taken to Tyburn.
-</p>
-<p>
-“We'll see that, you yelping hounds!” rejoined Jonathan, glaring fiercely
-at them.
-</p>
-<p>
-In this way, Jack was brought back to Newgate, and again chained down in
-the Middle Ward.
-</p>
-<p>
-It was late before Jonathan ventured to his own house, where he remained
-up all night, and kept his janizaries and other assistants well armed.
-</p>
-<p>
-<br /><br />
-</p>
-<hr />
-<p>
-<a name="link2HCH0020" id="link2HCH0020"> </a>
-</p>
-<div style="height: 4em;">
-<br /><br /><br /><br />
-</div>
-<h2>
-CHAPTER XXX. HOW JONATHAN WILD'S HOUSE WAS BURNT DOWN.
-</h2>
-<p class="pfirst"><span class="dropcap" style="font-size: 4.00em">T</span>he day appointed for the execution was now close at hand, and the
-prisoner, who seemed to have abandoned all hopes of escape, turned his
-thoughts entirely from worldly considerations.
-</p>
-<p>
-On Sunday, he was conveyed to the chapel, through which he had passed on
-the occasion of his great escape, and once more took his seat in the
-Condemned Pew. The Rev. Mr. Purney, the ordinary, who had latterly
-conceived a great regard for Jack, addressed him in a discourse, which,
-while it tended to keep alive his feelings of penitence, was calculated to
-afford him much consolation. The chapel was crowded to excess. But here,—even
-here, the demon was suffered to intrude, and Jack's thoughts were
-distracted by Jonathan Wild, who stood at a little distance from him, and
-kept his bloodthirsty eyes fixed on him during the whole of the service.
-</p>
-<p>
-On that night, an extraordinary event occurred, which convinced the
-authorities that every precaution must be taken in conducting Jack to
-Tyburn,—a fact of which they had been previously made aware, though
-scarcely to the same extent, by the riotous proceedings near Westminster
-Hall. About nine o'clock, an immense mob collected before the Lodge at
-Newgate. It was quite dark; but as some of the assemblage carried links,
-it was soon ascertained to be headed by the same party who had mainly
-incited the former disturbance. Amongst the ring-leaders was Blueskin,
-whose swarthy features and athletic figure were easily distinguished.
-Another was Baptist Kettleby, and a third, in a Dutch dress, was
-recognised by his grizzled beard as the skipper, Van Galgebrok.
-</p>
-<p>
-Before an hour had elapsed, the concourse was fearfully increased. The
-area in front of the jail was completely filled. Attempts were made upon
-the door of the Lodge; but it was too strong to be forced. A cry was then
-raised by the leaders to attack Wild's house, and the fury of the mob was
-instantly directed to that quarter. Wrenched from their holds, the iron
-palisades in front of the thief-taker's dwelling were used as weapons to
-burst open the door.
-</p>
-<p>
-While this was passing, Jonathan opened one of the upper windows, and
-fired several shots upon the assailants. But though he made Blueskin and
-Kettleby his chief marks, he missed both. The sight of the thief-taker
-increased the fury of the mob to a fearful degree. Terrific yells rent the
-air. The heavy weapon thundered against the door; and it speedily yielded
-to their efforts.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Come on, my lads!” vociferated Blueskin, “we'll unkennel the old fox.”
- </p>
-<p>
-As he spoke, several shots were fired from the upper part of the house,
-and two men fell mortally wounded. But this only incensed the assailing
-party the more. With a drawn cutlass in one hand and a cocked pistol in
-the other, Blueskin rushed up stairs. The landing was defended by Quilt
-Arnold and the Jew. The former was shot by Blueskin through the head, and
-his body fell over the bannisters. The Jew, who was paralysed by his
-companion's fate, offered no resistance, and was instantly seized.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Where is your accursed master?” demanded Blueskin, holding the sword to
-his throat.
-</p>
-<p>
-The Jew did not speak, but pointed to the audience-chamber. Committing him
-to the custody of the others, Blueskin, followed by a numerous band,
-darted in that direction. The door was locked; but, with the bars of iron,
-it was speedily burst open. Several of the assailants carried links, so
-that the room was a blaze of light. Jonathan, however, was nowhere to be
-seen.
-</p>
-<p>
-Rushing towards the entrance of the well-hole, Blueskin touched the secret
-spring. He was not there. Opening the trap-door, he then descended to the
-vaults—searched each cell, and every nook and corner separately.
-Wild had escaped.
-</p>
-<p>
-Robbed of their prey, the fury of the mob became ungovernable. At length,
-at the end of a passage, next to the cell where Mrs. Sheppard had been
-confined, Blueskin discovered a trap-door which he had not previously
-noticed. It was instantly burst open, when the horrible stench that issued
-from it convinced them that it must be a receptacle for the murdered
-victims of the thief-taker.
-</p>
-<p>
-Holding a link into the place, which had the appearance of a deep pit,
-Blueskin noticed a body richly dressed. He dragged it out, and perceiving,
-in spite of the decayed frame, that it was the body of Sir Rowland
-Trenchard, commanded his attendants to convey it up stairs—an order
-which was promptly obeyed.
-</p>
-<p>
-Returning to the audience-chamber, Blueskin had the Jew brought before
-him. The body of Sir Rowland was then laid on the large table. Opposite to
-it was placed the Jew. Seeing from the threatening looks of his captors,
-that they were about to wreak their vengeance upon him, the miserable
-wretch besought mercy in abject terms, and charged his master with the
-most atrocious crimes. His relation of the murder of Sir Rowland petrified
-even his fierce auditors.
-</p>
-<p>
-One of the cases in Jonathan's museum was now burst open, and a rope taken
-from it. In spite of his shrieks, the miserable Jew was then dragged into
-the well-hole, and the rope being tied round his neck, he was launched
-from the bridge.
-</p>
-<p>
-The vengeance of the assailants did not stop here. They broke open the
-entrance into Jonathan's store-room—plundered it of everything
-valuable—ransacked every closet, drawer, and secret hiding-place,
-and stripped them of their contents. Large hoards of money were
-discovered, gold and silver plate, cases of watches, and various precious
-articles. Nothing, in short, portable or valuable was left. Old implements
-of housebreaking were discovered; and the thief-taker's most hidden
-depositories were laid bare.
-</p>
-<p>
-The work of plunder over, that of destruction commenced. Straw and other
-combustibles being collected, were placed in the middle of the
-audience-chamber. On these were thrown all the horrible contents of
-Jonathan's museum, together with the body of Sir Rowland Trenchard. The
-whole was then fired, and in a few minutes the room was a blaze. Not
-content with this, the assailants set fire to the house in half-a-dozen
-other places; and the progress of the flames was rapid and destructive.
-</p>
-<p>
-Meanwhile, the object of all this fearful disturbance had made his escape
-to Newgate, from the roof of which he witnessed the destruction of his
-premises. He saw the flames burst from the windows, and perhaps in that
-maddening spectacle suffered torture equivalent to some of the crimes he
-had committed.
-</p>
-<p>
-While he was thus standing, the flames of his house, which made the whole
-street as light as day, and ruddily illumined the faces of the mob below,
-betrayed him to them, and he was speedily driven from his position by a
-shower of stones and other missiles.
-</p>
-<p>
-The mob now directed their attention to Newgate; and, from their threats,
-appeared determined to fire it. Ladders, paviour's rams, sledge-hammers,
-and other destructive implements were procured, and, in all probability,
-their purpose would have been effected, but for the opportune arrival of a
-detachment of the guards, who dispersed them, not without some loss of
-life.
-</p>
-<p>
-Several prisoners were taken, but the ring-leaders escaped. Engines were
-brought to play upon Wild's premises, and upon the adjoining houses. The
-latter were saved; but of the former nothing but the blackened stone walls
-were found standing on the morrow.
-</p>
-<p>
-<br /><br />
-</p>
-<hr />
-<p>
-<a name="link2HCH0021" id="link2HCH0021"> </a>
-</p>
-<div style="height: 4em;">
-<br /><br /><br /><br />
-</div>
-<h2>
-CHAPTER XXXI. THE PROCESSION TO TYBURN.
-</h2>
-<p class="pfirst"><span class="dropcap" style="font-size: 4.00em">T</span>he noise of this disturbance did not fail to reach the interior of the
-prison. In fact, the reflection of the flames lighted up the ward in which
-Jack Sheppard was confined.
-</p>
-<p>
-The night his execution was therefore passed in a most anxious state of
-mind; nor was his uneasiness allayed by the appearance of Jonathan Wild,
-who, after he had been driven from the roof of the jail, repaired to the
-Middle Stone Ward in a fit of ungovernable passion, to vent his rage upon
-the prisoner, whom he looked upon as the cause of the present calamity.
-Such was his fury, that if he had not been restrained by the presence of
-the two turnkeys, he might perhaps have anticipated the course of justice,
-by laying violent hands upon his victim.
-</p>
-<p>
-After venting his wrath in the wildest manner, and uttering the most
-dreadful execrations, Jonathan retired to another part of the prison,
-where he passed the night in consultation with the governor, as to the
-best means of conveying the prisoner securely to Tyburn. Mr. Pitt
-endeavoured to dissuade him from attending in person, representing the
-great risk he would incur from the mob, which was certain to be assembled.
-But Jonathan was not to be deterred.
-</p>
-<p>
-“I have sworn to see him hanged,” he said, “and nothing shall keep me away—nothing,
-by——.”
- </p>
-<p>
-By Wild's advice, the usual constabulary force was greatly augmented.
-Messengers were despatched to all the constables and head-boroughs to be
-in attendance,—to the sheriffs to have an extraordinary number of
-their officers in attendance,—and to the Savoy, to obtain the escort
-of a troop of grenadier-guards. In short, more preparations were made than
-if a state criminal was about to be executed.
-</p>
-<p>
-The morning of Monday the 16th of November 1724 at length dawned. It was a
-dull, foggy day, and the atmosphere was so thick and heavy, that, at eight
-o'clock, the curious who arrived near the prison could scarcely discern
-the tower of St. Sepulchre's church.
-</p>
-<p>
-By and by the tramp of horses' feet was heard slowly ascending Snow Hill,
-and presently a troop of grenadier guards rode into the area facing
-Newgate. These were presently joined by a regiment of foot. A large body
-of the constables of Westminster next made their appearance, the chief of
-whom entered the Lodge, where they were speedily joined by the civic
-authorities. At nine o'clock, the sheriffs arrived, followed by their
-officers and javelin-men.
-</p>
-<p>
-Meantime, the Stone Hall was crowded by all the inmates of the jail,
-debtors, felons, turnkeys, and officers who could obtain permission to
-witness the ceremony of the prisoner's irons being struck off. Caliban,
-who, through the interest of Mr. Ireton, was appointed to the office,
-stood with a hammer in one hand, and a punch in the other, near the great
-stone block, ready to fulfil his duty. Close behind him stood the tall
-gaunt figure of Marvel, with his large bony hands, his scraggy neck, and
-ill-favoured countenance. Next to the executioner stood his wife—the
-former Mrs. Spurling. Mrs. Marvel held her handkerchief to her eyes, and
-appeared in great distress. But her husband, whose deportment to her was
-considerably changed since the fatal knot had been tied, paid no attention
-whatever to her grief.
-</p>
-<p>
-At this moment, the bell of Newgate began to toll, and was answered by
-another bell from St. Sepulchre's. The great door of the Stone Hall was
-thrown open, and the sheriffs, preceded by the javelin-men, entered the
-room. They were followed by Jonathan, who carried a stout stick under his
-arm, and planted himself near the stone. Not a word was uttered by the
-assemblage; but a hush of expectation reigned throughout.
-</p>
-<p>
-Another door was next opened, and, preceded by the ordinary, with the
-sacred volume in his hand, the prisoner entered the room. Though
-encumbered by his irons, his step was firm, and his demeanour dignified.
-His countenance was pale as death, but not a muscle quivered; nor did he
-betray the slightest appearance of fear. On the contrary, it was
-impossible to look at him without perceiving that his resolution was
-unshaken.
-</p>
-<p>
-Advancing with a slow firm step to the stone-block he placed his left foot
-upon it, drew himself up to his full height, and fixed a look so stern
-upon Jonathan, that the thief-taker quailed before it.
-</p>
-<p>
-<br /><br />
-</p>
-<hr />
-<p>
-<a name="linkimage-0009" id="linkimage-0009"> </a>
-</p>
-<div class="fig" style="width:35%;">
-<img src="images/329s.jpg" alt="329s " width="100%" /><br />
-</div>
-<h4>
-<a href="images/329.jpg"><i>Original Size</i></a> -- <a
-href="images/329m.jpg"><i>Medium-Size</i></a>
-</h4>
-<p>
-The black, meantime, began to ply his hammer, and speedily unriveted the
-chains. The first stroke appeared to arouse all the vindictive passions of
-Jonathan. Fixing a ferocious and exulting look upon Jack Sheppard, he
-exclaimed.
-</p>
-<p>
-“At length, my vengeance is complete.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Wretch!” cried Jack, raising his hand in a menacing manner, “your triumph
-will be short-lived. Before a year has expired, you will share the same
-fate.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“If I do, I care not,” rejoined Wild; “I shall have lived to see you
-hanged.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“O Jack, dear, dear Jack!” cried Mrs. Marvel, who was now quite dissolved
-in tears, “I shall never survive this scene.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Hold your tongue, hussy!” cried her husband gruffly. “Women ought never
-to show themselves on these occasions, unless they can behave themselves
-properly.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Farewell, Jack,” cried twenty voices.
-</p>
-<p>
-Sheppard looked round, and exchanged kindly glances with several of those
-who addressed him.
-</p>
-<p>
-“My limbs feel so light, now that my irons are removed,” he observed with
-a smile, “that I am half inclined to dance.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“You'll dance upon nothing, presently,” rejoined Jonathan, brutally.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Farewell for ever,” said Jack, extending his hand to Mrs. Marvel.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Farewell!” blubbered the executioner's wife, pressing his hand to her
-lips. “Here are a pair of gloves and a nosegay for you. Oh dear!—oh
-dear! Be careful of him,” she added to her husband, “and get it over
-quickly, or never expect to see me again.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Peace, fool!” cried Marvel, angrily. “Do you think I don't know my own
-business?”
- </p>
-<p>
-Austin and Langley then advanced to the prisoner, and, twinning their arms
-round his, led him down to the Lodge, whither he was followed by the
-sheriffs, the ordinary, Wild, and the other officials.
-</p>
-<p>
-Meantime, every preparation had been made outside for his departure. At
-the end of two long lines of foot-guards stood the cart with a powerful
-black horse harnessed to it. At the head of the cart was placed the
-coffin. On the right were several mounted grenadiers: on the left, some
-half dozen javelin-men. Soldiers were stationed at different points of the
-street to keep off the mob, and others were riding backwards and forwards
-to maintain an open space for the passage of the procession.
-</p>
-<p>
-The assemblage which was gathered together was almost countless. Every
-house-top, every window, every wall, every projection, had its occupants.
-The wall of St. Sepulchre's church was covered—so was the tower. The
-concourse extended along Giltspur Street as far as Smithfield. No one was
-allowed to pass along Newgate Street, which was barricaded and protected
-by a strong constabulary force.
-</p>
-<p>
-The first person who issued from the Lodge was Mr. Marvel, who proceeded
-to the cart, and took his seat upon the coffin. The hangman is always an
-object of peculiar detestation to the mob, a tremendous hooting hailed his
-appearance, and both staves and swords were required to preserve order.
-</p>
-<p>
-A deep silence, however, now prevailed, broken only by the tolling of the
-bells of Newgate and St. Sepulchre's. The mighty concourse became for a
-moment still. Suddenly, such a shout as has seldom smitten human ears rent
-the air. “He comes!” cried a thousand voices, and the shout ascended to
-Smithfield, descended to Snow Hill, and told those who were assembled on
-Holborn Hill that Sheppard had left the prison.
-</p>
-<p>
-Between the two officers, with their arms linked in his, Jack Sheppard was
-conducted to the cart. He looked around, and as he heard that deafening
-shout,—as he felt the influence of those thousand eyes fixed upon
-him,—as he listened to the cheers, all his misgivings—if he
-had any—vanished, and he felt more as if he were marching to a
-triumph, than proceeding to a shameful death.
-</p>
-<p>
-Jack had no sooner taken his place in the cart, than he was followed by
-the ordinary, who seated himself beside him, and, opening the book of
-prayer, began to read aloud. Excited by the scene, Jack, however, could
-pay little attention to the good man's discourse, and was lost in a whirl
-of tumultuous emotions.
-</p>
-<p>
-The calvacade was now put slowly in motion. The horse-soldiers wheeled
-round and cleared a path: the foot closed in upon the cart. Then came the
-javelin-men, walking four abreast, and lastly, a long line of constables,
-marching in the same order.
-</p>
-<p>
-The procession had just got into line of march, when a dreadful groan,
-mixed with yells, hootings, and execrations, was heard. This was
-occasioned by Jonathan Wild, who was seen to mount his horse and join the
-train. Jonathan, however, paid no sort of attention to this demonstration
-of hatred. He had buckled on his hanger, and had two brace of pistols in
-his belt, as well as others in this holsters.
-</p>
-<p>
-By this time, the procession had reached the west end of the wall of St.
-Sepulchre's church, where, in compliance with an old custom, it halted. By
-the will of Mr. Robert Dow, merchant tailor, it was appointed that the
-sexton of St. Sepulchre's should pronounce a solemn exhortation upon every
-criminal on his way to Tyburn, for which office he was to receive a small
-stipend. As soon as the cavalcade stopped, the sexton advanced, and,
-ringing a handbell, pronounced the following admonition.
-</p>
-<p>
-“<i>All good people pray heartily unto God for this poor sinner, who is
-now going to take his death, for whom this great bell doth toll</i>.
-</p>
-<p>
-“<i>You who are condemned to die, repent with lamentable tears. Ask mercy
-of the Lord for the salvation of your own soul, through the merits of the
-death and passion of Jesus Christ, who now sits at the right hand of God,
-to make intercession for you, if you penitently return to him. The Lord
-have mercy upon you</i>!”
- </p>
-<p>
-This ceremony concluded, the calvacade was again put in motion.
-</p>
-<p>
-Slowly descending Snow Hill, the train passed on its way, attended by the
-same stunning vociferations, cheers, yells, and outcries, which had
-accompanied it on starting from Newgate. The guards had great difficulty
-in preserving a clear passage without resorting to severe measures, for
-the tide, which poured upon them behind, around, in front, and at all
-sides, was almost irresistible. The houses on Snow Hill were thronged,
-like those in Old Bailey. Every window, from the groundfloor to the garret
-had its occupant, and the roofs were covered with spectators. Words of
-encouragement and sympathy were addressed to Jack, who, as he looked
-around, beheld many a friendly glance fixed upon him.
-</p>
-<p>
-In this way, they reached Holborn Bridge. Here a little delay occurred.
-The passage was so narrow that there was only sufficient room for the cart
-to pass, with a single line of foot-soldiers on one side; and, as the
-walls of the bridge were covered with spectators, it was not deemed
-prudent to cross it till these persons were dislodged.
-</p>
-<p>
-While this was effected, intelligence was brought that a formidable mob
-was pouring down Field Lane, the end of which was barricaded. The advanced
-guard rode on to drive away any opposition, while the main body of the
-procession crossed the bridge, and slowly toiled up Holborn Hill.
-</p>
-<p>
-The entrance of Shoe Lane, and the whole line of the wall of St. Andrew's
-church, the bell of which was tolling, was covered with spectators. Upon
-the steps leading to the gates of the church stood two persons whom Jack
-instantly recognised. These were his mistresses, Poll Maggot and Edgeworth
-Bess. As soon as the latter beheld him, she uttered a loud scream, and
-fainted. She was caught by some of the bystanders, who offered by her
-every assistance in their power. As to Mrs. Maggot, whose nerves were more
-firmly strung, she contented herself with waving her hand affectionately
-to her lover, and encouraging him by her gestures.
-</p>
-<p>
-While this was taking place, another and more serious interruption
-occurred. The advanced guard had endeavoured to disperse the mob in Field
-Lane, but were not prepared to meet with the resistance they encountered.
-The pavement had been hastily picked up, and heaped across the end of the
-street, upon which planks, barrels, and other barricades, were laid. Most
-of the mob were armed with pikes, staves, swords, muskets, and other
-weapons, and offered a most desperate resistance to the soldiery, whom
-they drove back with a shower of paving-stones.
-</p>
-<p>
-The arrival of the cart at the end of Field Lane, appeared the signal for
-an attempt at rescue. With a loud shout, and headed by a powerfully-built
-man, with a face as black as that of a mulatto, and armed with a cutlass,
-the rabble leapt over the barricades, and rushed towards the vehicle. An
-immediate halt took place. The soldiers surrounded the cart, drew their
-swords, and by striking the rioters first with the blunt edge of their
-blades, and afterwards with the sharp points, succeeded in driving them
-back.
-</p>
-<p>
-Amid this skirmish Jonathan greatly distinguished himself. Drawing his
-hanger he rode amongst the crowd, trampled upon those most in advance, and
-made an attempt to seize their leader, in whom he recognised Blueskin.
-</p>
-<p>
-Baffled in their attempt, the mob uttered a roar, such as only a thousand
-angry voices can utter, and discharged a volley of missiles at the
-soldiery. Stones and brickbats were showered on all sides, and Mr. Marvel
-was almost dislodged from his seat on the coffin by a dead dog, which was
-hurled against him, and struck him in the face.
-</p>
-<p>
-At length, however, by dealing blows right and left with their swords, and
-even inflicting severe cuts on the foremost of the rabble, the soldiers
-managed to gain a clear course, and to drive back the assailants; who, as
-they retreated behind the barricades, shouted in tones of defiance, “To
-Tyburn! to Tyburn!”
- </p>
-<p>
-The object of all this tumult, meanwhile, never altered his position, but
-sat back in the cart, as if resolved not to make even a struggle to regain
-his liberty.
-</p>
-<p>
-The procession now wound its way, without further interruption, along
-Holborn. Like a river swollen by many currents, it gathered force from the
-various avenues that poured their streams into it. Fetter Lane, on the
-left, Gray's Inn, on the right, added their supplies. On all hands Jack
-was cheered, and Jonathan hooted.
-</p>
-<p>
-<br /><br />
-</p>
-<hr />
-<p>
-<a name="linkimage-0010" id="linkimage-0010"> </a>
-</p>
-<div class="fig" style="width:35%;">
-<img src="images/346s.jpg" alt="346s " width="100%" /><br />
-</div>
-<h4>
-<a href="images/346.jpg"><i>Original Size</i></a> -- <a
-href="images/346m.jpg"><i>Medium-Size</i></a>
-</h4>
-<p>
-At length, the train approached St. Giles's. Here, according to another
-old custom, already alluded to, a criminal taken to execution was allowed
-to halt at a tavern, called the Crown, and take a draught from St. Giles's
-bowl, “as his last refreshment on earth.” At the door of this tavern,
-which was situated on the left of the street, not more than a hundred
-yards distant from the church, the bell of which began to toll as soon as
-the procession came in sight, the cart drew up, and the whole cavalcade
-halted. A wooden balcony in one of the adjoining houses was thronged with
-ladies, all of whom appeared to take a lively interest in the scene, and
-to be full of commiseration for the criminal, not, perhaps, unmixed with
-admiration of his appearance. Every window in the public house was filled
-with guests; and, as in the case of St. Andrew's, the churchyard wall of
-St. Giles's was lined with spectators.
-</p>
-<p>
-A scene now ensued, highly characteristic of the age, and the occasion.
-The doleful procession at once assumed a festive character. Many of the
-soldiers dismounted, and called for drink. Their example was immediately
-imitated by the officers, constables, javelin men, and other attendants;
-and nothing was to be heard but shouts of laughter and jesting,—nothing
-seen but the passing of glasses, and the emptying of foaming jugs. Mr.
-Marvel, who had been a little discomposed by the treatment he had
-experienced on Holborn Hill, very composedly filled and lighted his pipe.
-</p>
-<p>
-One group at the door attracted Jack's attention, inasmuch as it was
-composed of several of his old acquaintances—Mr. Kneebone, Van
-Galgebrok, and Baptist Kettleby—all of whom greeted him cordially.
-Besides these, there was a sturdy-looking fellow, whom he instantly
-recognised as the honest blacksmith who had freed him from his irons at
-Tottenham.
-</p>
-<p>
-“I am here, you see,” said the smith.
-</p>
-<p>
-“So I perceive,” replied Jack.
-</p>
-<p>
-At this moment, the landlord of the Crown, a jovial-looking stout
-personage, with a white apron round his waist, issued from the house,
-bearing a large wooden bowl filled with ale, which he offered to Jack, who
-instantly rose to receive it. Raising the bowl in his right hand, Jack
-glanced towards the balcony, in which the group of ladies were seated, and
-begged to drink their healths; he then turned to Kneebone and the others,
-who extended their hands towards him, and raised it to his lips. Just as
-he was about to drain it, he encountered the basilisk glance of Jonathan
-Wild, and paused.
-</p>
-<p>
-“I leave this bowl for you,” he cried, returning it to the landlord
-untasted.
-</p>
-<p>
-“Your father said so before you,” replied Jonathan, malignantly; “and yet
-it has tarried thus long.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“You will call for it before six months are passed,” rejoined Jack,
-sternly.
-</p>
-<p>
-Once again the cavalcade was in motion, and winding its way by St. Giles's
-church, the bell of which continued tolling all the time, passed the
-pound, and entered Oxford Road, or, as it was then not unfrequently
-termed, Tyburn Road. After passing Tottenham Court Road, very few houses
-were to be seen on the right hand, opposite Wardour Street it was open
-country.
-</p>
-<p>
-The crowd now dispersed amongst the fields, and thousands of persons were
-seen hurrying towards Tyburn as fast as their legs could carry them,
-leaping over hedges, and breaking down every impediment in their course.
-</p>
-<p>
-Besides those who conducted themselves more peaceably, the conductors of
-the procession noticed with considerable uneasiness, large bands of men
-armed with staves, bludgeons, and other weapons, who were flying across
-the field in the same direction. As it was feared that some mischief would
-ensue, Wild volunteered, if he were allowed a small body of men, to ride
-forward to Tyburn, and keep the ground clear until the arrival of the
-prisoner.
-</p>
-<p>
-This suggestion being approved, was instantly acted upon, and the
-thief-taker, accompanied by a body of the grenadiers, rode forward.
-</p>
-<p>
-The train, meantime, had passed Marylebone Lane, when it again paused for
-a moment, at Jack's request, near the door of a public-house called the
-City of Oxford.
-</p>
-<p>
-Scarcely had it come to a halt, when a stalwart man shouldered his way, in
-spite of their opposition, through the lines of soldiery to the cart, and
-offered his large horny hand to the prisoner.
-</p>
-<p>
-“I told you I would call to bid you farewell, Mr. Figg,” said Jack.
-</p>
-<p>
-“So you did,” replied the prize-fighter. “Sorry you're obliged to keep
-your word. Heard of your last escape. Hoped you'd not be retaken. Never
-sent for the shirt.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“I didn't want it,” replied Jack; “but who are those gentlemen?”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Friends of yours,” replied Figg; “come to see you;—Sir James
-Thornhill, Mr. Hogarth, and Mr. Gay. They send you every good wish.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Offer them my hearty thanks,” replied Jack, waving his hand to the group,
-all of whom returned the salutation. “And now, farewell, Mr. Figg! In a
-few minutes, all will be over.”
- </p>
-<p>
-Figg turned aside to hide the tears that started to his eyes,—for
-the stout prize-fighter, with a man's courage, had a woman's heart,—and
-the procession again set forward.
-</p>
-<p>
-<br /><br />
-</p>
-<hr />
-<p>
-<a name="link2HCH0022" id="link2HCH0022"> </a>
-</p>
-<div style="height: 4em;">
-<br /><br /><br /><br />
-</div>
-<h2>
-CHAPTER XXXII. THE CLOSING SCENE.
-</h2>
-<p class="pfirst"><span class="dropcap" style="font-size: 4.00em">T</span>yburn was now at hand. Over the sea of heads arose a black and dismal
-object. It was the gallows. Jack, whose back was towards it, did not see
-it; but he heard, from the pitying exclamations of the crowd, that it was
-in view. This circumstance produced no further alteration in his demeanour
-except that he endeavoured to abstract himself from the surrounding scene,
-and bend his attention to the prayers which the ordinary was reciting.
-</p>
-<p>
-Just as he had succeeded in fixing his attention, it was again shaken, and
-he was almost unnerved by the sight of Mr. Wood, who was standing at the
-edge of a raised platform, anxiously waving his hand to him.
-</p>
-<p>
-Jack instantly sprang to his feet, and as his guards construed the motion
-into an attempt to escape, several of them drew their swords and motioned
-to him to sit down. But Jack did not heed them. His looks were fixed on
-his old benefactor.
-</p>
-<p>
-“God in Heaven bless you, unhappy boy!” cried. Wood, bursting into tears,
-“God bless you!”
- </p>
-<p>
-Jack extended his hand towards him, and looked anxiously for Thames; but
-he was nowhere to be seen. A severe pang shot through Jack's heart, and he
-would have given worlds if he possessed them to have seen his friend once
-more. The wish was vain: and, endeavouring to banish every earthly
-thought, he addressed himself deeply and sincerely to prayer.
-</p>
-<p>
-While this was passing, Jonathan had ridden back to Marvel to tell him
-that all was ready, and to give him his last instructions.
-</p>
-<p>
-“You'll lose no time,” said the thief-taker. “A hundred pounds if you do
-it quickly.”
- </p>
-<p>
-“Rely on me,” rejoined the executioner, throwing away his pipe, which was
-just finished.
-</p>
-<p>
-A deep dread calm, like that which precedes a thunderstorm, now prevailed
-amongst the assemblage. The thousand voices which a few moments before had
-been so clamorous were now hushed. Not a breath was drawn. The troops had
-kept a large space clear around the gallows. The galleries adjoining it
-were crowded with spectators,—so was the roof of a large tavern,
-then the only house standing at the end of the Edgeware Road,—so
-were the trees,—the walls of Hyde Park,—a neighbouring barn, a
-shed,—in short, every available position.
-</p>
-<p>
-The cart, meantime, had approached the fatal tree. The guards, horse and
-foot, and constables formed a wide circle round it to keep off the mob. It
-was an awful moment—so awful, that every other feeling except deep
-interest in the scene seemed suspended.
-</p>
-<p>
-At this terrible juncture, Jack maintained his composure,—a smile
-played upon his face before the cap was drawn over it,—and the last
-words he uttered were, “My poor mother! I shall soon join her!” The rope
-was then adjusted, and the cart began to move.
-</p>
-<p>
-<br /><br />
-</p>
-<hr />
-<p>
-<a name="linkimage-0011" id="linkimage-0011"> </a>
-</p>
-<div class="fig" style="width:35%;">
-<img src="images/357s.jpg" alt="357s " width="100%" /><br />
-</div>
-<h4>
-<a href="images/357.jpg"><i>Original Size</i></a> -- <a
-href="images/357m.jpg"><i>Medium-Size</i></a>
-</h4>
-<p>
-The next instant, he was launched into eternity!
-</p>
-<p>
-Scarcely had he been turned off a moment, when a man with swarthy features
-leapt into the cart with an open clasp-knife in his hand, and, before he
-could be prevented, severed the rope, and cut down the body. It was
-Blueskin. His assistance came too late. A ball from Wild's pistol passed
-through his heart, and a volley of musketry poured from the guards lodged
-several balls in the yet breathing body of his leader.
-</p>
-<p>
-Blueskin, however, was not unattended. A thousand eager assistants pressed
-behind him. Jack's body was caught, and passed from hand to hand over a
-thousand heads, till it was far from the fatal tree.
-</p>
-<p>
-The shouts of indignation—the frightful yells now raised baffle
-description. A furious attack was made on Jonathan, who, though he
-defended himself like a lion, was desperately wounded, and would
-inevitably have perished if he had not been protected by the guards, who
-were obliged to use both swords and fire-arms upon the mob in his defence.
-He was at length rescued from his assailants,—rescued to perish,
-seven months afterwards, with every ignominy, at the very gibbet to which
-he had brought his victim.
-</p>
-<p>
-The body of Jack Sheppard, meanwhile, was borne along by that tremendous
-host, which rose and fell like the waves of the ocean, until it approached
-the termination of the Edgeware Road.
-</p>
-<p>
-At this point a carriage with servants in sumptuous liveries was
-stationed. At the open door stood a young man in a rich garb with a mask
-on his face, who was encouraging the mob by words and gestures. At length,
-the body was brought towards him. Instantly seizing it, the young man
-placed it in the carriage, shut the door, and commanded his servants to
-drive off. The order was promptly obeyed, and the horses proceeded at a
-furious pace along the Edgeware Road.
-</p>
-<p>
-Half an hour afterwards the body of Jack was carefully examined. It had
-been cut down before life was extinct, but a ball from one of the soldiers
-had pierced his heart.
-</p>
-<p>
-Thus died Jack Sheppard.
-</p>
-<p>
-That night a grave was dug in Willesden churchyard, next to that in which
-Mrs. Sheppard had been interred. Two persons, besides the clergyman and
-sexton, alone attended the ceremony. They were a young man and an old one,
-and both appeared deeply affected. The coffin was lowered into the grave,
-and the mourners departed. A simple wooden monument was placed over the
-grave, but without any name or date. In after years, some pitying hand
-supplied the inscription, which ran thus—
-</p>
-<p>
-<br /><br />
-</p>
-<hr />
-<p>
-<a name="linkimage-0012" id="linkimage-0012"> </a>
-</p>
-<div class="fig" style="width:35%;">
-<img src="images/361s.jpg" alt="361s " width="100%" /><br />
-</div>
-<h4>
-<a href="images/361.jpg"><i>Original Size</i></a> -- <a
-href="images/361m.jpg"><i>Medium-Size</i></a>
-</h4>
-<h3>
-THE END.
-</h3>
-<div style="height: 6em;">
-<br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><br />
-</div>
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-<pre>
-
-
-
-
-
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