"I ask deliberation on these two plain propositions: First, would it not be more opportune to await the day set for the execution of Louis XVI--his condemnation is not a matter of doubt--and only then attempt our stroke, in the hope that the horror of regicide will add to the number of our partisans? And secondly,--it is I, on my own initiative, on my own responsibility, who propose this grave question--would it not be more expedient, in the manifest interest of the Church and the monarchy--simply to allow Louis to be guillotined?" The Jesuit's proposal, as strange as it was unexpected, threw his hearers into such amazement that they were struck dumb anew, and sat with their mouths hanging open. Three taps at the door, given like a preconcerted signal, were heard in the stillness. "It is my god-son," whispered the Jesuit; and in a louder tone, he added: "Come in!" Little Rodin was togged out in a red jacket and bonnet the same as the prelate. He saluted the company. "What news, my child? What have you to tell us?" inquired his preceptor. "Gentle god-father, there is a man down below, with the porter, disguised as a woman. He gave the pass-word, but the porter, not recognizing him, replied that he knew not what he was after with his jargon. Scenting a possible spy, the porter sent his wife up to me on the second floor, to warn me of what had happened." "Doubtless it is one of our men, obliged to take refuge in disguise," began the Count. "It is more serious than that," the Bishop dissented. "How are you to make sure he is one of us?" "A man tricked out as a woman!" exclaimed the Marquis. "Is this carnival time?" "You know all our people by sight?" asked Morlet of his god-son. "Yes, dear god-father. When I've seen a person once, I do not forget him. The Lord God," and he crossed himself, "has blessed His little servant with the gift of memory, which he has so much use for." "Go down to the porter's lodge," returned his dear god-father. "Examine the personage in question. If you recognize him, tell the porter to let him come up. If not, come back and let me know." "Yes, good god-father, your orders shall be followed to the dot!" responded little Rodin, sliding out of the door, while the Bishop asked, dubiously: "But may not that child make a mistake? Meseems the errand is poorly entrusted." "My god-son is a prodigy of cleverness and penetration," returned the Abbot. The interrupted topic of discussion was immediately resumed by the Count. "I refuse to sit under a chairman," said he, "a priest, a subject of the King, who has the sacrilegious audacity of bringing up for consideration the abominable question, Is it, yes or no, expedient to allow Louis XVI to be guillotined?" "Such abomination would seem incredible," chimed in the Bishop, "did one not know that the Society of Jesus often preaches regicide."