With a little scornful laugh she bade him begone.

"Stéphanie——"

She waved her white hand towards the gates of Ancelles.

"You have chosen. Adieu!"

She turned away with a scornful smile on her lips.

He sprang forward.

"Stéphanie, you must—you shall give way to me in this——"

Her small hand clenched.

"Monsieur, allow me to pass!"

He stood aside.