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208 "He would keep his word, monsieur. In this mood he is iron."

"Are you in truth an honest man? The breed seems rare in the Castle."

"I hope so—as men go, monsieur."

"And you heard what passed?—my last question and his reply."

"I could not help it."

"I am not this Gerard de Cobalt, and he knows it; yet you heard him declare that if I would not confess to this lie he would torture me until I did confess. If all else slips from your memory, at least remember that; for the time may come when I may need your testimony. Now do what you will; I am tired and would sleep;" and Gerard lay back on the pallet.

"Not there where you lie, monsieur, safer here;" and to Gerard's surprise Pierre made him shift his position.

Presently Pierre left the cell, and Gerard fell asleep, to be wakened by a sound at the door. He sat up thinking the two hours had passed and that the Governor had returned; then started with an exclamation of delight and surprise, as he saw Gabrielle enter, dressed in a loose black cloak.

"Gabrielle! You!"

"I have come to set you free," she said, pausing with blanched cheeks as her eyes ran round the cell. "What a fearful place."

"You have run this risk for me!" and he smiled.

"I run no risk; but if risk there were, you must be free."

"Shall I go, mademoiselle? The door must be locked," said Pierre.

"Yes, go, good Pierre. Keep watch and warn us of any danger."

"There is a full half-hour and more, mademoiselle. But I will watch;" and he went out and locked the door behind him.