"Madame has sworn——" she began impetuously.
"And M. de Perrencourt?" I interrupted.
"He—he gave his word to his sister," she said in a very low voice. Then she stretched her hand out towards me, whispering, "Simon, Simon!"
I interpreted the appeal, although it was but an inarticulate cry, witnessing to a fear of dangers unknown. The woman had edged a little away, but still kept a careful watch. I paid no heed to her. I must give my warning.
"My services are always at your disposal, Mistress Barbara," said I, "even without the right to them that M. de Perrencourt purposes to give you."
"I don't understand. How can he—Why, you wouldn't enter my service?"
She laughed a little as she made this suggestion, but there was an eagerness in her voice; my heart answered to it, for I saw that she found comfort in the thought of my company.
"M. de Perrencourt," said I, "purposes that I should enter your service, and his also."
"Mine and his?" she murmured, puzzled and alarmed.
I did not know how to tell her; I was ashamed. But the last moments fled, and she must know before we were at sea.