WHAT PASSED IN THE RUE DU BAC WHILE WAITING FOR GASTON.
"What, monseigneur, you here!" cried Dubois, entering the room of the house in the Rue du Bac, and finding the regent seated in the same place as on the previous day.
"Yes; is there anything wonderful in that? Have I not an appointment at noon with the chevalier?"
"But I thought the order you signed would have put an end to these conferences."
"You were mistaken, Dubois; I wish to have another interview with this young man. I shall make one more effort to induce him to renounce his plans."
"And if he should do so?"
"Then all will be at an end—there will be no conspiracy—there will have been no conspirators. I cannot punish intentions."
"With any other I should not allow this; but with him I say, as you please."
"You think he will remain firm?"
"Oh! I am quite easy. But when he has decidedly refused, when you are quite convinced that he persists in his intention of assassinating you, then you will give him over to me, will you not?"