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294 "Hell's peace!" roared the Governor. "Here is my answer," and he tore the paper in two and flung it into the messenger's face, bidding two of the soldiers seize him. "I have a further answer yet. If you do not surrender yourself and all in the house within an hour, I will order my troops to take it by force and burn it as the refuge of a murderer."

"We are in great strength, and shall resist you. You will refuse my demands at your peril."

The Governor's reply was a threat, emphasized with an oath as he wheeled his horse round and rode off.

"There goes the last chance of avoiding a conflict," said Pascal, as he and Gerard watched him.

"I am not so sure," answered Gerard thoughtfully. "We have taken him by surprise and set him a problem, and he is not so dull-witted as to think the solution can be found with just a threat and a curse."