Page:Gilbert Parker--The Lane that had No Turning.djvu/319

Rh her brain does not. After they had done shouting to his toast, he said a good-night to all, and they began to leave, the Curé among the first to go, with a troubled look in his face.

"As the people left, the Baron said to Garoche and Falise: ‘A moment with me before you go.’ The woman started, for she thought of one thing, and Garoche started, for he thought of another—the siege of Beaugard and the killing of young Marmette. But they followed the Baron to his chamber. Coming in, he shut the door on them. Then he turned to Garoche. 'You will accept the roof and bed of Beaugard to-night, my man,’ he said, ‘and come to me here at nine to-morrow morning.’ Garoche stared hard for an instant. ‘Stay here!’ said Garoche, ‘Falise and me stay here in the Manor, m’sieu’ le Baron!’ ‘Here, even here, Garoche; so good-night to you,’ said the Baron. Garoche turned towards the girl. 'Then come, Falise,’ he said, and reached out his hand. ‘Your room, Garoche, shall be shown you at once,’ the Baron added softly, ‘the lady’s at her pleasure.’

"Then a cry burst from Garoche, and he sprang forward, but the Baron waved him back. ‘Stand off,’ he said, ‘and let the lady choose between us.’ ‘She is my wife,’ said Garoche. ‘I am your Seigneur,’ said the other. ‘And there is more than that,’ he went on; ‘for, damn me, she is too fine stuff for you, and the Church shall untie what she has tied to-day!’ At that Falise fainted, and the Baron caught her as she fell. He laid her on a couch, keeping an eye on Garoche the while. ‘Loose her gown,’ he said, ‘while I get brandy.’ Then he turned to a cupboard, poured liquor, and came over. Garoche had her dress open at the neck and bosom, and was staring at something