But Dubois having heard the Governor was a prisoner, had another and much bolder scheme. “I am with mademoiselle, so far as staying here,” he said. “I would take the bold line, my lord. Keep the Governor a prisoner; let me collect our men together, declare yourself openly, and by a bold stroke seize the Castle itself in the name of your father. At best we should have half the garrison on our side; and at worst should only have to hold this part of the Castle for some two days. With our hundred men we could maintain it against half an army, especially with the army disorganized and leaderless. Mademoiselle could remain with the Duchess in perfect safety, because the Governor would be in our hands.” “It is like you, Dubois, and might succeed; but I see a thousand difficulties.” “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. “Quick, my lord,” called Pierre; and running down they found him bending over the unconscious form of the sentry. “There was no other way,” he said. “He would have fired his musket and roused every guard in the Castle had he caught sight of you.” “’Twas cleverly done,” said Dubois. “Make sure of him;” and he picked up the soldier’s musket, glad to get a weapon so easily. “Not cleverly; treacherously, monsieur,” replied Pierre regretfully; “but there was nothing else for it;” and he opened the iron door for them to pass.