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244 "I would give half the men and choose a weaker house for more arms and powder."

The other two were silent for a while at this ominous reply.

"Do you mean we can't stand our ground even for the hours until my cousin can arrive?"

"We are men and can try. But it depends on the Governor—if he learns that you are here, and when he learns it, and what he does when he knows."

"He thinks we are in hiding in the city. We had a brush with a search party near the walls, and they will soon carry the news to the Castle."

"Let us pray that he remains in that belief; for if he swoops down on this place with a strong force it will be an ugly business. We could not hope to resist for many hours."

"Let us go round and see, Dubois," said Gerard.

Dubois and Pascal went out and Gerard stayed a moment with Gabrielle, who had listened with intense interest to the discussion.

So even Malincourt is not to be a refuge, Gerard," she said.

"We are far from beaten yet. Have courage."

"I have courage; but how bitterly I regret that moment of cowardice when I could not face that descent with you."

"It would have made no difference. The watch was already set on the city walls and we should have come straight here with Pascal—when matters would have been at an even worse pass. We have gained hours that may prove invaluable."

"You are brave to be so hopeful."

"If it comes to regrets, Gabrielle, it is I who am to blame. Had I taken Dubois' bold counsels and tried to seize the Castle when the Governor was in my power, I believe it would have been best. But at that rate, I