Page:A courier of fortune (1904).djvu/207

Rh vised that the best hour for making any attempt would be about ten o'clock at night; as the guard would be changed at eleven, and they were always less vigilant in their last hour of their watch.

"My father says there will be a great risk, miladi," said Pauline; "and urges the utmost caution. He declares it will be far safer for all concerned if the prisoner makes his escape by the window and avoids the hazard of encountering any of the soldiers or servants in attempting to leave by any other way."

"It could be done," said Gabrielle, readily, "now that this Pascal can help from outside. I will send him word by Lucette of the time, and tell him to find means of getting to the courtyard."

She hurried to Lucette and told her the plan and the reasons why it was not deemed prudent for her to leave the Duchess, and they were discussing this when the Governor entered.

"You will know what I shall need for a few days, Lucette," said Gabrielle, with a swift warning glance; "and if I have forgotten anything in my haste, you can bring it or even return for it. How is Denys?"

"Much improved, but very weak, of course, and fretting at his weakness."

"I wish to speak with you, mademoiselle," interposed the Governor.

"I am remaining some days with the Duchess, monsieur, and am sending instructions in regard to matters at Malincourt."

"That is good news; it is as I would have it."

"One thing more, Lucette, and the most important of all—M. de Proballe is not to be allowed to enter the maison until my return."

"That is a harsh injunction, mademoiselle."

"I am the mistress of Malincourt, my lord, and am firmly resolved on the point."