My veins throbbed; I could have screamed in delight, or sobbed in sudden joy and relief. I fairly crept to the window on hands and knees, animated now with but one thought, one hope--the desire not to be left here behind, alone. I hung far out, my face upturned, staring into the darkness. The distance was not great, only a few feet to the roof above, yet so black was the night that the edge above me blended imperceptibly against the sky. I could perceive no movement, no outline. Could they have already gone? Was it possible that they merely dropped this brief message, and instantly vanished? No, the cord still dangled; somewhere in that dense gloom, the two men peered over the roof edge waiting my response. "Monsieur," I called up softly, unable to restrain my eagerness. "Yes, Madame," it was De Artigny's voice, although a mere whisper. "You have some word for me?" "Ay, listen; is there any way by which I can join you?" "Join me--here?" astonishment at my request made him incoherent. "Why, Madame, the risk is great--" "Never mind that; my reason is worthy, nor have we time now to discuss the matter. Monsieur Boisrondet is there a way?" I heard them speak to each other, a mere murmur of sound; then another voice reached my ears clearly. "We have a strong grass rope, Madame, which will safely bear your weight. The risk will not be great. I have made a noose, and will lower it." I reached it with my hand, but felt a doubt as my fingers clasped it. "'Tis very small, Monsieur." "But strong enough for double your weight, as 'twas Indian woven. Put foot in the noose, and hold tight. There are two of us holding it above." The memory of the depth below frightened me, yet I crept forth on the narrow sill, clinging desperately to the taut rope, until I felt my foot safely pressed into the noose, which tightened firmly about it. "Now," I said, barely able to make my lips speak. "I am ready." "Then swing clear, Madame; we'll hold you safe." I doubt if it was a full minute in which I swung out over that gulf amid the black night. My heart seemed to stop beating, and I retained no sense other than to cling desperately to the swaying cord which alone held me from being dashed to death on the jagged rocks below. Inch by inch they drew me up, the continuous jerks yielding a sickening sensation, but the distance was so short, I could scarcely realize the full danger, before De Artigny grasped me with his hands, and drew me in beside him on the roof. I stood upon my feet, trembling from excitement, yet encouraged in my purpose, by his first words of welcome. "Adele," he exclaimed, forgetful of the presence of his comrade. "Surely you had serious cause for joining us here." "Am I welcome, Monsieur?" "Can you doubt? Yet surely it was not merely to say farewell that you assumed such risk?"