the others. A sentry stood at each side of
the closed door, but De Tonty ignored them, and ushered me into the
room. It was not large, and was already well filled, a table littered
with papers occupying the central space, De Baugis and De la Durantaye
seated beside it, while numerous other figures were standing pressed
against the walls. I recognized the familiar faces of several of our
party, but before I recovered from my first embarrassment De Baugis
arose, and with much politeness offered me a chair.

De Tonty remained beside me, his hand resting on my chair back, as he
coolly surveyed the scene. Cassion pushed past, and occupied a vacant
chair, between the other officers, laying his sword on the table. My
eyes swept about the circle of faces seeking De Artigny, but he was
not present. But for a slight shuffling of feet, the silence was
oppressive. Cassion's unpleasant voice broke the stillness.

"M. de Tonty, there is a chair yonder reserved for your use."

"I prefer remaining beside Madame Cassion," he answered calmly. "It
would seem she has few friends in this company."

"We are all her friends," broke in De Baugis, his face flushing, "but
we are here to do justice, and avenge a foul crime. 'Tis told us that
madame possesses certain knowledge which has not been revealed. Other
witnesses have testified, and we would now listen to her word.
Sergeant of the guard, bring in the prisoner."

He entered by way of the rear door, manacled, and with an armed
soldier on either side. Coatless and bareheaded, he stood erect in the
place assigned him, and as his eyes swept the faces, his stern look
changed to a smile as his glance met mine. My eyes were still upon
him, seeking eagerly for some message of guidance, when Cassion
spoke.

"M. de Baugis will question the witness."

"The court will pardon me," said De Artigny. "The witness to be heard
is Madame?"

"Certainly; what means your interruption?"

"To spare the lady unnecessary embarrassment. She is my friend, and,
no doubt, may find it difficult to testify against me. I merely
venture to ask her to give this court the exact truth."

"Your words are impertinent."

"No, M. de Baugis," I broke in, understanding all that was meant.
"Sieur de Artigny has spoken in kindness, and has my thanks. I am
ready now to bear witness frankly."

Cassion leaned over whispering, but De Baugis merely frowned, and
shook his head, his eyes on my face. I felt the friendly touch o