Dick answered . Presently , sure enough , they came to a sharp angle , and then the passage ended in a flight of steps . On the top of that there was a solid flag of stone by way of trap , and to this they both set their backs . It was immovable . `` Some one holdeth it , '' suggested Joanna . `` Not so , '' said Dick ; `` for were a man strong as ten , he must still yield a little . But this resisteth like dead rock . There is a weight upon the trap . Here is no issue ; and , by my sooth , good Jack , we are here as fairly prisoners as though the gyves were on our ankle bones . Sit ye then down , and let us talk . After a while we shall return , when perchance they shall be less carefully upon their guard ; and , who knoweth ? we may break out and stand a chance . But , in my poor opinion , we are as good as shent . '' `` Dick ! '' she cried , `` alas the day that ever ye should have seen me ! For like a most unhappy and unthankful maid , it is I have led you hither . '' `` What cheer ! '' returned Dick . `` It was all written , and that which is written , willy nilly , cometh still to pass . But tell me a little what manner of a maid ye are , and how ye came into Sir Daniel 's hands ; that will do better than to bemoan yourself , whether for your sake or mine . ''
`` I am an orphan , like yourself , of father and mother , '' XXXXX Joanna ; `` and for my great misfortune , Dick , and hitherto for yours , I am a rich marriage .
answered came cheer return returned said seen set written yield