“Nighthawk groaned as he listened to my cold and resolute voice, giving minute instructions for the work of darkness--looked at my face, to discover if there were any signs of yielding there--doubtless saw none whatever--and disappeared, uttering a groan, to carry out the orders which he had received from me. “Then I took the two foils from the top of the bookcase where they were kept; broke off the buttons by placing my heel upon them; procured a file, and sharpened the points until they would have penetrated through an ordinary plank. That was sufficient, I said to myself--they would pierce a man’s breast--and placing them on the buffet, I went to a drawer and took out a loaded revolver, which I thrust into my breast. “Two minutes afterward I had ascended to madam’s chamber, opened the door, and entered.” XXII. WHILE WAITING FOR MIDNIGHT. “I did not arrive a moment too soon--in fact I came in the nick of time. “Madam had hastily collected watches, chains, breastpins, necklaces, and all the money she could find; had thrust the whole into a jewel casket; thrown her rich furs around her shoulders; and was hurrying toward the door, in rear of the apartment which opened on the private staircase. “She had not locked the main door of the apartment, doubtless fearing to excite suspicion, or knowing I could easily break the hasp with a single blow of my foot. She had plainly counted on my stupor of astonishment and horror at her crime, and was now trying to escape. “That did not suit my view, however. In two steps, I reached the private door, turned the key, drew it from the lock, and placed it in my pocket. “‘Sit down, madam,’ I said, ‘and do not be in such a hurry to desert your dear husband. Let us talk for a few moments, at least, before you depart.’ “She glared at me and sat down. She looked regal in her costly furs, holding the casket, heaped with rich jewels. “‘What is your programme, madam, if I may ask?’ I said, taking a chair which stood opposite to her. “‘To leave this house!’ she said, hoarsely. “‘Ah! you are tired of me, then?’ “‘I am sick of you!--have long been sick of you!’ “‘Indeed!’ I said. ‘That is curious! I thought our marriage was a love affair, madam; at least you induced me to suppose so. What, then, has suddenly changed your sentiments in my direction? Am I a monster? Have I been cruel to you? Am I unworthy of you?’ “‘I hate and despise you!’ “It was the hoarse growl of a wild animal rather than the voice of a woman. She was imperial at that moment--and I acknowledge, Surry, that she was ‘game to the last!’ “‘Ah! you hate me, you despise me!’ I said. ‘I have had the misfortune to incur madam’s displeasure! No more connubial happiness--no more endearments and sweet confidences--no more loving words, and glances--no more bliss!’ “She continued to glare at me.