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Rh "There are difficulties every way; but as I told you to-day, I know the disaffection among the men here; and the difficulties stoutly faced would yield."

Gerard thought earnestly a moment and then shook his head.

The hazard is too great. If we can but once reach the courtyard, Pascal is there with a force enough to get us through the breach in the wall I noticed to-day; and we can then leave the city. Can you guide us by a safe way to the courtyard, Pierre?"

"It may be done, my lord; but 'tis now close on the hour for the change of guard."

"Then I decide for that," broke in Gerard. "Lead the way."

"It is full of risks, my lord. There is an iron door on every landing, and a sentry posted at each."

"Go you on ahead then; and if any difficulty is made about our passing, leave it to us to force the way."

They started at once—Pierre some little distance in front, Dubois next, and Gerard with Gabrielle following. The stairway, narrow and pitch dark, wound down the western tower of the prison fortress; and the light from the lantern which Pierre carried scarcely reached those above.

Not a word further was spoken, and each of the three trod as lightly as the broken uneven stairs would allow.

Soon they saw Pierre's light stop and heard some one speak to him.

"Who goes? Is that you, Pierre?"

"Who else, Armand?" was the gruff reply. Then a faint chink of something falling on the stone and an exclamation from Pierre. "Diable! I've dropped my key. Lend me your eyes, Armand."

A musket was set down; and a moment later the sound of a heavy blow and a low groan, at which Gabrielle caught her breath and shuddered.