At the same time seen themselves by Reginald Trevor, who rode back upon his guard. But not to inspire it to resistance, nor place it in a position of defence. Instead, he seemed irresolute, uncertain whether to make stand or retreat. His men, heavy Dragoons, had unslung their dragon-muzzled muskets, and awaited the word "Fire!" But no such word was spoken, no order given. Even when the approaching horsemen were charging up to them, shouting "For God and Parliament!" even then, no command from their officer to meet or withstand the charge. Nor did they then wish it; they saw the assailants were ten to their one; it was too late, even for retreat. Should he call "Quarter!" they were ready to chorus it. And just that called he, the instant after, to a man among the foremost of the charging party--his cousin! Their swords came together with a clash, Eustace the first to speak. "At last!" he exclaimed. "At last we've met to keep our promise made. `No Quarter!' I cry it!" "And I cry `Quarter'--beg it." Never dropped blade quicker down from threatening thrust than that of Eustace Trevor; never was combatant more surprised by the behaviour of an adversary. "What do you mean?" he asked, in utter astonishment. "That I fight no more for Prince, or King. Henceforth, if they'll have it, my sword's at the service of the Parliament." "God bless me, Rej; how glad I am to hear you say that! And so near making mince-meat of one another!" "Not of one another, Eust. You might have done that with me--may still, if you feel spiteful." "Good Heavens! cousin; what has come over you? But I won't question now; there's no time." "There isn't. See yonder. Rupert and Lunsford, with the Powells as their prisoners." "We know all that. But where are the ruffians taking them?" "Berkeley first; then Bristol. They're making to cross at Framilode Passage. It's but a short way beyond." "They shall never cross it--can't before we come up with them. You'll be with us now, Rej?" "I will." The strange episode, and dialogue, took up but a few seconds' time; during which Rob Wilde, with a half-score files of Foresters, had disarmed the unresisting rear-guard. It was now under guard itself, and all ready for continuing the pursuit. And continued it was instantaneously; Sir Richard, at the head of his green-coats, spurring straight into the flood, and on after the red ones, without further precaution either of silence or concealment. For he knew they would be seen now. CHAPTER SIXTY EIGHT. A FIGHT IN A FLOOD. Still but half-way across the inundated tract, and up to their saddle-girths in water, Rupert and his escort were floundering on. As already said, they marched "by twos"--this necessitated by the narrowness of the causeway--and so were lengthened in line. Two hundred horse in file formation take up a long stretch of road, however close the order.