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336 We may have a farce of a trial and a sentence after this Tiger's manner; but before he can do anything, the tables will be turned on him, and he is not unlikely to find himself where we are. Have no fear, and don't be surprised at anything that happens."

Lucette was silent for a while, her manner a mixture of vexation and regret.

"Shall I say I have learnt my lesson, monsieur?" she asked with a look half mocking, half serious. "Your words have hurt me."

"I fear you've but a poor memory for lessons, Lucette."

"Ah, you are unendurable! I don't like this lecturer's mood of yours."

"Then it's fortunate I don't wear it often. You are too brave and true a girl at heart, Lucette," he said earnestly, "not to make your good will worth having for any man. And now I'll be serious no more."

But Lucette looked serious then, and twice turned to him as if to say something; although in the end she shrugged her shoulders and remained silent.

"Something is going to happen now," said Pascal after a minute, as a number of the Governor's suite entered and ranged themselves near the daïs. Both were watching them when Lucette cried suddenly—

"There is Gabrielle. Oh, how sad and pale she looks!"

"She takes it all very seriously," replied Pascal; and pushing through the prisoners, he forced a way for Lucette and himself to the front. Gabrielle saw, and hurried to speak to them, when one of the guards stopped her.

"You cannot speak to the prisoners, mademoiselle," he said.

"Nonsense, fellow," exclaimed Pascal angrily.

"Silence, prisoner."