"The Roundheads are at the hall, and I have sliced their captain's face; so I must be away with all speed.

Please get the men up, and lose not a moment; I want my arms and horse." The farmer's wife lost no time in arousing the house, and in a very few minutes all was ready.

One man saddled the horse, while another buckled on Harry's breast and back pieces; and with a hearty good-by, and amid many prayers for his safety and speedy return with the king's troops, Harry rode off into the darkness.

For awhile he rode cautiously, listening intently lest he might fall into the hands of some of the Roundhead bands.

But all was quiet, and after placing another mile or two between himself and Abingdon, he concluded that he was safe, drew Rollo's reins tighter, pressed him with his knees, and started at full gallop for Oxford..