Not a moment was to be lost.

Grasping his staff, the apprentice darted along the nave, and, rushing up to the pair, exclaimed in a loud voice, "Hold! I forbid this marriage.

It must not take place!" "Back, sirrah!" cried Etherege, drawing his sword, and opposing the approach of the apprentice.

"You have no authority to interrupt it.
Proceed, Mr.Quatremain." "Forbear!" cried a voice of thunder near them--and all turning at the cry, they beheld Solomon Eagle, with his brazier on his head, issue from behind the stalls.

"Forbear!" cried the enthusiast, placing himself between the earl and Amabel, both of whom recoiled at his approach.
"Heaven's altar must not be profaned with these mockeries! And you, Thomas Quatremain, who have taken part in this unrighteous transaction, make clean your breast, and purge yourself quickly of your sins, for your hours are numbered.