As to Henry he had left his brother-in-law greatly disturbed, and instead of going along the main corridor he had taken the small private stairway, to which we have already referred more than once, and which led to the second story. Scarcely had he ascended four steps before he perceived a figure at the first landing. He stopped, raising his hand to his dagger. But he soon saw it was a woman, who took hold of his hand and said in a charming voice which he well knew:
"Thank God, sire, you are safe and sound. I was so afraid for you, but no doubt God heard my prayer."
"What has happened?" said Henry.
"You will know when you reach your rooms. You need not worry over Orthon. I have seen to him."
The young woman descended the stairs hastily, making Henry believe that she had met him by chance.
"That is strange," said Henry to himself. "What is the matter? What has happened to Orthon?"
Unfortunately, the question was not heard by Madame de Sauve, for the latter had already disappeared.
Suddenly at the top of the stairs Henry perceived another figure, but this time it was that of a man.
"Hush!" said the man.
"Ah! is it you, François?"