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 ! '' repeated Dick . `` Why , who the murrain should this be ? Here is no Joanna , nor ever hath been . What meaneth it ? '' Matcham was silent . He seemed to have drawn further away . But only a little faint starlight entered by the window , and at the far end of the apartment , where the pair were , the darkness was complete . `` Jack , '' said Dick , `` I wot not where ye were all day .
Saw ye this XXXXX ? ''
Daniel Dick Joanna Matcham chink cross-bow day first meaneth murrain