There was a sound below the floor ; then it paused , and then began again . `` Some one walketh in the room below , '' whispered Matcham . `` Nay , '' returned Dick , `` there is no room below ; we are above the chapel . It is my murderer in the secret passage . Well , let him come ; it shall go hard with him ; '' and he ground his teeth . `` Blow me the lights out , '' said the other . `` Perchance he will betray himself . '' They blew out both the lamps and lay still as death . The footfalls underneath were very soft , but they were clearly audible . Several times they came and went ; and then there was a loud jar of a key turning in a lock , followed by a considerable silence . Presently the steps began again , and then , all of a sudden , a chink of light appeared in the planking of the room in a far corner . It widened ; a trap-door was being opened , letting in a gush of light . They could see the strong hand pushing it up ; and Dick raised his cross-bow , waiting for the head to follow . But now there came an interruption . From a distant corner of the Moat House shouts began to be heard , and first one voice , and then several , crying aloud upon a name . This noise had plainly disconcerted the murderer , for the trap-door was silently lowered to its place , and the steps hurriedly returned , passed once more close below the lads , and died away in the distance . Here was a moment 's respite . Dick breathed deep , and then , and not till then , he gave ear to the disturbance which had interrupted the attack , and which was now rather increasing than diminishing . All about the Moat House feet were running , doors were opening and slamming , and still the voice of Sir Daniel towered above all this bustle , shouting for `` Joanna . '' `` Joanna ! ''
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Daniel Dick Joanna Matcham Moat attack cross-bow first trap-door walketh