Page:A courier of fortune (1904).djvu/184



ABRIELLE witnessed the attack upon Gerard with almost breathless fear lest he should be wounded or even killed in the fight; but when she saw him led away a prisoner every feeling was merged in fierce hot resentment at the outrage.

De Proballe retained his hold of her until Gerard had been taken away, and the instant he released her she turned upon him in magnificent indignation, she drew herself to her full height and looked at him with eyes flashing with anger.

"You have shown me your true character at last, M. le Baron, and from this point our roads part, and we are strangers."

"I did it for your own good, Gabrielle," he said apologetically.

"You did it because I am only a woman. Were I a man you should pay the penalty here and now. But there are those in my household who will not tamely see me maltreated, and if you consult your safety you will avoid Malincourt. If you come there, I will have you driven from my door."

"You are very angry and therefore very unreasonable."

She turned her back upon him without a word more and approached the Governor.

"For the moment you have your way, M. le Duc; but the day has not yet dawned when the influence of my