And in that hand, it must be understood, he held the false key which opened Rosa’s door as easily as did the real one.
And this is why, in the beginning of the chapter, we said that the poor young people were in great need of the protection of God.
Chapter 24. The Black Tulip changes Masters
Cornelius remained standing on the spot where Rosa had left him. He was quite overpowered with the weight of his twofold happiness.
Half an hour passed away. Already did the first rays of the sun enter through the iron grating of the prison, when Cornelius was suddenly startled at the noise of steps which came up the staircase, and of cries which approached nearer and nearer.
Almost at the same instant he saw before him the pale and distracted face of Rosa.
He started, and turned pale with fright.
“Cornelius, Cornelius!” she screamed, gasping for breath.
“Good Heaven! what is it?” asked the prisoner.