use yourself, sir," replied the veiled lady, "I
know the prerogatives of the law, and I am here at your orders."

"Madame," said the judge, "the court and myself recognize the feeling of
delicacy which prompted you, when first confronted with the prisoners,
to decline to recognize the one who assisted you when fainting. At
that time the prisoners denied their identity with the pillagers of the
diligences. Since then they have confessed all; but it is our wish to
know the one who showed you that consideration, in order that we may
recommend him to the First Consul's clemency."

"What!" exclaimed the lady, "have they really confessed?"

"Yes, madame, but they will not say which of their number helped you,
fearing, no doubt, to contradict your testimony, and thus cause you
embarrassment."

"What is it you request of me, sir?"

"That you will save the gentleman who assisted you."

"Oh! willingly," said the lady, rising; "what am I to do?"

"Answer a question which I shall ask you."

"I am ready, sir."

"Wait here a moment. You will be sent for presently."

The judge went back into the courtroom. A gendarme was placed at each
door to prevent any one from approaching the lady. The judge resumed his
seat.

"Gentlemen," said he, "the session is reopened."

General excitement prevailed. The ushers called for silence, and silence
was restored.

"Bring in the witness," said the judge.

An usher opened the door of the council-chamber, and the lady, still
veiled, was brought into court. All eyes turned upon her. Who was she?
Why was she there? What had she come for? Amelie's eyes fastened upon
her at once.

"O my God!" she murmured, "grant that I be mistaken."

"Madame," said the judge, "the prisoners are about to be brought in.
Have the goodness to point out the one who, when the Geneva diligence
was stopped, paid you those attentions."

A shudder ran through the audience. They felt that some fatal trap had
been laid for the prisoners.

A dozen voices began to shout: "Say nothing!" but the ushers, at a sign
from the judge, cried out imperatively: "Silence!"

Amelie's heart turned deadly cold. A cold sweat poured from her
forehead. Her knees gave way and trembled under her.

"Bring in the prisoners," said the judge, imposing silence by a look
as the usher had with his voice. "And you, madame, have the goodness to
advance and raise your veil."

The veiled lady obeyed.

"My mother!" cried Amelie, but in a