He could not see what private scheme Gerard could have in reserve; and came at length to think that the success with Gabrielle had so turned Gerard’s head that he believed himself master of the situation. From this delusion it would not be difficult to rouse him, however. A word or two from the Duke that his life was in danger would soon cure this swashbuckler mood; and such a word he could instigate at any moment. He could therefore safely let matters run their course for the present.
In this temper he awaited the hour fixed for Gerard’s interview with the Governor; but early in the forenoon the latter arrived at Malincourt; and de Proballe found him in a dangerous temper.
“We were to wait upon you at the Castle, Duke,” he said, suavely.
“Am I not welcome at Malincourt?”
“You can need no assurance from me, I trust, that your presence here is an honour and a welcome condescension.”
“Umph!” and the Governor shrugged his shoulders. “Where is Mdlle. de Malincourt?”
“I have not seen my niece this morning. I will have her sent for.”
“No, that is not my wish. Where is your villainous jackal, de Cobalt? News has reached me that he made much impression upon your niece yesterday. Is that so? Speak plainly.”
“He came as her betrothed, and he has done as we would have him do, seeing the purpose in hand.”
“I have my doubts about this affair after all,” was the answer, with a heavy frown. “It will not suit me that he win too far into her good graces. The thing has cost me a sleepless night of thought, and I have come now that I may see them together, myself unseen, and hear them speak one to the other, that I may judge how matters go. You will arrange this. I am consumed with a cursed gnawing plague of jealousy.”