t me for an hour."

"Enough of that," his voice grown harsh, and threatening. "You address
the Governor; answer me direct."

I lifted my eyes to his stern face, but they instantly fell before the
encounter of his fierce gaze.

"I do not know, Monsieur."

"Who was here when you came in?"

"No one, Monsieur; the room was empty."

"Then you hid there, and overheard the conversation between Colonel
Delguard and myself?"

"Yes, Monsieur," I confessed, feeling my limbs tremble.

"And also all that has passed since Monsieur Cassion entered?"

"Yes, Monsieur."

He drew a deep breath, striking his hand on the desk, as though he
would control his anger.

"Were you alone? Had you a companion?"

I know not how I managed it, yet I raised my eyes to his, simulating a
surprise I was far from feeling.

"Alone, Monsieur? I am Adele la Chesnayne; if you doubt, the way of
discovery is open without word from me."

His suspicious, doubting eyes never left my face, and there was sneer
in his voice as he answered.

"Bah! I am not in love to be played with by a witch. Perchance 'tis
not easy for you to lie. Well, we will see. Look within the alcove,
Cassion."

The Commissaire was there even before the words of command were
uttered, and my heart seemed to stop beating as his heavy hand
tore aside the drapery. I leaned on the desk, bracing myself,
expecting a blow, a struggle; but all was silent. Cassion, braced,
and expectant, peered into the shadows, evidently perceiving nothing;
then stepped within, only to instantly reappear, his expression
that of disappointment. The blood surged back to my heart, and my
lips smiled.

"No one is there, Monsieur," he reported, "but the window is open."

"And not a dangerous leap to the court below," returned La Barre
thoughtfully. "So far you win, Mademoiselle. Now will you answer
me--were you alone there ten minutes ago?"

"It is useless for me to reply, Monsieur," I answered with dignity,
"as it will in no way change your decision."

"You have courage, at least."

"The inheritance of my race, Monsieur."

"Well, we'll test it then, but not in the form you anticipate." He
smiled, but not pleasantly, and resumed his seat at the desk. "I
propose closing your mouth, Mademoiselle, and placing you beyond
temptation. Monsieur Cassion, have the lieutenant at the door enter."

I stood in silence, wondering at what was about to occur; was I to be
made prisoner? or what form was my puni