The servants gave a loud shout of terror, and vanished through an opposite door. They made their way at a terrific pace towards the ball-room. “What means all this commotion?” said the marquis. “Where is my son?” demanded the marchioness. “My brother, has aught happened to him?” said the trembling bride. Before any explanation could be given one of the doors opened, and in rushed several of the Skeleton Crew. On the instant they were confronted by Wildfire Ned, Lieutenant Garnet, and Bob, and most of the gentlemen present, who whipped out their swords, and darted at the grim intruders. Some of the ladies fainted. One or two old gentlemen jumped on the window-sills out of danger. Others tried to escape. But, as they rushed in one direction out of harm’s way, other doors opened and different parties of the Skeleton Crew came into view. All was a scene of terror and confusion. It seemed to the affrighted assembly as if the dead had risen from their graves. The combat was fierce and fiery. The bridegroom was one of the first to fall in the melee. Lady Julia ran forward to assist him. On the instant, however, and unperceived by the many, Death-wing advanced with hasty strides, seized the bride, and carried her from the room. This was the sole object of Death-wing in making his visit. When it was accomplished he darted down stairs, with the fair one fainting in his arms, and mounted his horse. A shrill cry he gave, which was recognised by all his followers, as he mounted his strong horse, and galloped away. His band understood the manœuvre, and as quickly as they could, fought their way towards the entrance-hall, leaped upon their horses, and flew away like the wind, with wild shouts of triumph. “Pursue! pursue!” shouted Ned, fierce with anger. His advice was followed on the instant. Horses were called for; but the terrified servants were loth to come forth from their hiding-places to answer the summons. They had madly rushed to all manner of places for concealment. Some had made their way to the top of the mansion, and there concealed themselves behind chimney-pots, and even in the deep rain gutters. One or two had actually climbed up chimneys, and were almost smothered in soot. “Anywhere! anywhere!” was the cry among them. Somewhere or anywhere to hide, so as to be out of sight and reach of Death-wing’s awful band. More than one had locked themselves into pantries, among the plates, dishes, and so forth, and great was the crash of valuable earthenware. No one among the whole household seemed to care what they did or what they broke, so that they could get out of the way. A fat footman who had rushed to the coal-cupboard, found it occupied by another corpulent servant, who had managed to squeeze himself in there. Dirty as he was, he darted into the beautiful bridal chamber, turned down the bed-clothes, and tumbled in boots and all!