"That is a different affair," replied Fawkes. "They may prove serviceable to us."
"My lord," observed Catesby, "by a strange chance you have fallen into the hands of Catholics. You will be pleased to deliver these papers to us."
"Ah! villains, would you rob me?" cried the Earl. "You shall take my life sooner."
"We will take both, if you resist," replied Catesby, in a menacing tone.
"Nay, then," returned Salisbury, attempting to draw his sword, "we will see who will obtain the mastery. We are equally matched. Come on; I fear you not."
But the waterman who had rowed the Earl was not of equal courage with his employer, and refused to take part in the conflict.
"It will be useless to contend with us," cried Catesby, relinquishing the oar to Fawkes, and springing forward. "I must have those papers," he added, seizing the Earl by the throat, "or I will throw you overboard."
"I am mistaken in you," returned Salisbury; "you are no common mariner."
"It matters not who or what I am," rejoined Catesby, fiercely. "Your papers, or you die."
Finding it in vain to contend with his opponent, the Earl was fain to yield, and reluctantly produced a packet from his doublet, and delivered it to him.
"You will repent this outrage, villain," he said.
"Your lordship will do well to recollect you are still in my power," rejoined Catesby. "One thrust of my sword will wipe off some of the injuries you have inflicted on our suffering party."
"I have heard your voice before," cried Salisbury; "you shall not escape me."
"Your imprudence has destroyed you," retorted Catesby, clutching the Earl's throat more tightly, and shortening his sword, with the intent to plunge it into his breast.
"Hold!" exclaimed Fawkes, grasping his arm, and preventing the blow. "I have already said you shall not slay him. You are in possession of his papers. What more would you have?"
"His life," replied Catesby, struggling to liberate his arm.
"Let him swear not to betray us," rejoined Fawkes. "If he refuses, I will not stay your hand."
"You hear what my companion says, my lord," cried Catesby. "Will you swear to keep silence as to what has just occurred?"
After a moment's hesitation, Salisbury assented, and Catesby relinquished his grasp.