"Yes, monsieur," he replied, for the unremitting scrutiny of the viscountess kept him on the rack.
"Monsieur," she cried, "take us to Madame la Princesse, I implore you. What difference can it make to you? As well take us to her as leave us here in suspense; she will see him, monsieur, she will see me, I will speak to her, and she will renew her promise."
"That is an excellent idea of yours, madame," said the officer, seizing hastily upon the suggestion; "go to her yourself, go! you have every chance of success."
"What do you say to it, baron?" the viscountess asked. "Do you think it would be well? You would not deceive me; what ought I to do?"
"Go, madame," said Canolles, with a mighty effort.
The viscountess dropped his arm, walked away a few steps, then ran back to him.
"Oh! no! no!" said she, "I will not leave him."
At that moment the outer door opened.
"Ah! God be praised!" she cried; "here are Monsieur Lenet and Monsieur le Duc!"
Behind Monsieur de La Rochefoucauld with his sphinx-like face, came Lenet with sorrowful countenance and trembling hands. At the first glance he exchanged with the counsellor, Canolles saw that there was no hope for him, that his doom was sealed.