"I confess it, mon—Shall I say 'monsieur' or 'monseigneur'?"
"Say 'my friend.'"
At this moment her hand touched that of the unknown.
"Madame Desroches, are you there?" asked Helene, drawing back.
"Madame Desroches," said the voice, "tell mademoiselle that she is as safe as in a temple before God."
"Ah! monseigneur, I am at your feet, pardon me."
"Rise, my child, and seat yourself there. Madame Desroches, close all the doors; and now," continued he, "give me your hand, I beg."
Helene's hand again met that of the stranger, and this time it was not withdrawn.
"He seems to tremble also," murmured she.
"Tell me are you afraid, dear child?"