"And they will shoot him?"
"As soon as I get there."
"Then you have charge of the execution?"
"No, but I hope they will let me give the order to fire. That is a favor that is seldom refused to any brave soldier taken with his arms in his hand, even if he has emigrated."
"Oh, heavens!" exclaimed Charles, catching a glimpse of the truth. "Are—"
"Exactly, my young friend. That is why I laughed when you recommended prudence, and why I offered to give my place to any one who wanted it, for I have no fear of losing it. As you said, I am attached."
And shaking aside his cloak with a movement of his shoulders, he showed the boy that his hands were fastened in front and his arms bound behind.
"Then," cried Charles, with a movement of terror, "you are—"
"The Comte de Sainte-Hermine, my child. You see I was right when I said that it is well my poor mother is dead."
"Oh!" exclaimed Charles.