“It is not possible, Gerard. You speak at random. You are not known in Morvaix; and the people would not follow an unknown leader. Yet I have dreamed of something of the kind since you came. Were you but once established firmly as lord of Malincourt and had had time to win the confidence of the people and their trust, as you would win it, then--but there, it is no more than a dream conjured up by finding you the man you are.” “May I test your trust still further? I have my reasons, God knows, for thus testing you. If I were in very truth the wretch the Duke has painted me, and yet had the means to do what I have said and came to you in the moment of my triumph and asked you to be my wife, how would you answer?” “I would lay my hand in yours without a question, Gerard, sure that, whatever your past, you had redeemed it for my sake.” She gave her answer without a falter or a second of hesitation. “Thank God and you for those words and that trust, Gabrielle,” he cried, with fervent passion. “If I am ever unworthy of it, may God deal with me for a traitor! The time for me to claim you so will come, and until it comes I will wait to seek from your lips the kiss of betrothal. Now am I sure indeed that all will be well with us.” “But you will not remain in Morvaix?” she asked, after a pause. “Could I leave you after this?” he replied tenderly. “I should understand the reason of your going.” “I have far stronger reasons to remain near you.” “I think you should not. I am safe; but I fear for you; and my fear will not pass while you remain here. I am going to-day to the Duchess and shall seek her aid and counsel--telling her all.” “To the Castle?” “Of a surety to the Castle. She has sent an urgent message to see me.” “By whom?” “The Duke.” “I scent trouble in it. I do not like you to trust yourself in that man’s power. If you go, I shall go too.” “You are needlessly alarmed. She is my friend, and as good a woman as ever drew breath. I am often with her. I could not refuse; but it would be madness for you to think of going.” “The term madness does not hinder me. For the part I have to play a bold front is not only necessary, it is prudence.” “But you can serve no useful end by such a venture. The Duke might offer you violence, indeed, in his anger.” “I can find a pretext and would gladly have a chance to get within the walls.” “It may be less easy to find one to get out, Gerard.” “Even so the work I have to do would not be stayed. I am firm on the point.” “I do not like the look of it;” and Gabrielle’s face clouded. “The look may change on closer view.” “Harm will come of it, Gerard. Let me prevail.” “When my work is done you shall never prefer a request in vain. But this you must not press.” She yielded then, albeit with anxiety and misgivings; and they went into the house. Gerard hastened to his apartments to wait for Pascal and to complete the arrangements for striking the blow upon which he had now decided.