"And no light?"
"None whatever."
The steps approached, then stopped.
"Speak frankly, Madame Desroches," said the voice. "Is she as pretty as they said?"
"More beautiful than your highness can imagine."
"Your highness! who can he be?" thought Helene, much agitated.
At this moment the door creaked on its hinges and a heavy step approached.
"Mademoiselle," said the voice, "I beg you to receive and hear me."
"I am here," said Helene, faintly.
"Are you frightened?"