Reserving his petronels to the last, he trusted solely to his rapier, and leaning against the newel, or circular column round which the stairs twined, he was in a great measure defended from the weapons of his adversaries, while they were completely exposed to his attack.

The darkness, moreover, in which he was enveloped offered an additional protection, whereas the torches they carried made his mark certain.

As soon as the foremost of the band came within reach, Catesby plunged his sword into his breast, and pushed him back with all his force upon his comrades.

The man fell heavily backwards, dislodging the next in advance, who in his turn upset his successor, and so on, till the whole band was thrown into confusion.

A discharge of fire-arms followed; but, sheltered by the newel, Catesby sustained no injury.