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Rh "How?"

"He has deceived you with specious lies, has won upon you until the scene below to-day showed your feelings. You are the head of a noble house, mademoiselle, whose influence here in Morvaix is too great to be at the mercy of either a treacherous scoundrel or a hireling spy. And while you remain unmarried and at his mercy, because of your gentle trustful heart and of the feeling he has stirred within you, such a man cannot be at large. The interests of all in Morvaix render it impossible."

"Again you make the strange suggestion that this is done for my sake," said Gabrielle.

"And it is true, Gabrielle. Were it not for you, the prisoner might go free this moment." Every word spoken was now chosen to bring him nearer to his object.

"But if he be the unworthy man you say, do you hold me for a thing too feeble and weak to withstand his evil influence?"

"Worthy or base, it is as I say. His freedom rests on you."

"In plainer words?"

"Consent to do as I have asked you, and the man's fate is for you to determine. As my wife, Gabrielle, your lightest wish would be my law."

"And if I still refuse?"

His answer was a shrug of the shoulders and a lifting of the hands. He looked for another storm to burst; and was surprised when Gabrielle remained quiet, cold and thoughtful. He read the sign to be favourable to him. Hitherto she would not even listen. He felt the strength of the weapon he wielded, and was glad.

She paused as if in deep distress and fear, and sighed as she asked—

"Do you think such a union as you suggest could