_ was that a noise overhead? I could see nothing, yet, as I
leaned further out, a cord touched my face. I grasped it, and drew the
dangling end in. It was weighted with a bit of wood. A single coal
glowed in the fireplace, and from this I ignited a splinter, barely
yielding me light enough to decipher the few words traced on the white
surface: "Safe so far; have you any word?"

My veins throbbed; I could have screamed in delight, or sobbed in
sudden joy and relief. I fairly crept to the window on hands and
knees, animated now with but one thought, one hope--the desire not to
be left here behind, alone. I hung far out, my face upturned, staring
into the darkness. The distance was not great, only a few feet to the
roof above, yet so black was the night that the edge above me blended
imperceptibly against the sky. I could perceive no movement, no
outline. Could they have already gone? Was it possible that they
merely dropped this brief message, and instantly vanished? No, the
cord still dangled; somewhere in that dense gloom, the two men peered
over the roof edge waiting my response.

"Monsieur," I called up softly, unable to restrain my eagerness.

"Yes, Madame," it was De Artigny's voice, although a mere whisper.
"You have some word for me?"

"Ay, listen; is there any way by which I can join you?"

"Join me--here?" astonishment at my request made him incoherent. "Why,
Madame, the risk is great--"

"Never mind that; my reason is worthy, nor have we time now to discuss
the matter. Monsieur Boisrondet is there a way?"

I heard them speak to each other, a mere murmur of sound; then another
voice reached my ears clearly.

"We have a strong grass rope, Madame, which will safely bear your
weight. The risk will not be great. I have made a noose, and will
lower it."

I reached it with my hand, but felt a doubt as my fingers clasped it.

"'Tis very small, Monsieur."

"But strong enough for double your weight, as 'twas Indian woven. Put
foot in the noose, and hold tight. There are two of us holding it
above."

The memory of the depth below frightened me, yet I crept forth on the
narrow sill, clinging desperately to the taut rope, until I felt my
foot safely pressed into the noose, which tightened firmly about it.

"Now," I said, barely able to make my lips speak. "I am ready."

"Then swing clear, Madame; we'll hold you safe."

I doubt if it was a full minute in which I swung out over that gulf
amid the black nigh