g her old calling valueless, she had betaken herself to her
present mode of life, in the hopes of preying on the superstition and
credulity of her fellow-creatures. And I found that I was correct in my
suspicions.

The rain meantime continued pouring down with unabated violence, and we
began to fear that it would not hold up in time to allow us to return to
Antwerp before nightfall. Several times I went to the door of the hut
to look forth, but the heavens were still dark as at first, not a gleam
of light being visible in any direction. Finding the good effect of the
first piece of money, I bestowed a second of about the same value on the
old woman, telling her that, as we had occupied her abode so long, I
thought we were in duty bound to pay her rent. I saw that this second
gift had completely secured her services; and she now seemed as anxious
to please us as she had at first appeared surly and morose.

"Listen to me, young sir," she said; "for you seem to understand my
language better than the rest of the party. Do not trust to
appearances. You think that the Reformers have gained the upper hand.
I know King Philip and his advisers too well not to be sure that they
will wreak a bitter vengeance on the cities in which the churches of the
faith they hold have been desecrated. He may appear indifferent for a
time, for the sake of lulling the people to sleep; but, depend upon it,
he only bides his time, and he will speedily spring forth like a tiger
of the Far East, to crush with his mighty paws all who have ventured to
oppose him."

I was afraid the old woman spoke too truly, though it required no
prophet to say the same. Madam Clough seemed very little disposed to
talk with her, while Aveline could only partially understand what she
said. Thus the weight of the conversation fell on me; for A'Dale
thought fit to endeavour to entertain Mistress Margery, who, of course,
could not comprehend a single word that was spoken. I was very thankful
when at last the loud pattering sound, which had continued for so long,
ceased; and, looking forth, I found that it was no longer raining.
Wishing old Dame Trond farewell, we led the horses out of the hut, and,
quickly mounting, made the best of our way home.

CHAPTER TWENTY ONE.

A BATTLE OUTSIDE ANTWERP.

An important event was about to occur in Antwerp. The Reformers were
triumphant. They had taken possession of three churches, and in each,
one of their princi