A hurried consultation followed as to the least hazardous means of getting out of the Castle. Gabrielle was for going to the apartments of the Duchess; but Gerard, all unwilling that she should remain a minute longer than was necessary, would not consent.
“No, we must get you beyond this Tiger’s reach, at any hazard. What say you, Dubois?”
But Dubois having heard the Governor was a prisoner, had another and much bolder scheme.
“I am with mademoiselle, so far as staying here,” he said. “I would take the bold line, my lord. Keep the Governor a prisoner; let me collect our men together, declare yourself openly, and by a bold stroke seize the Castle itself in the name of your father. At best we should have half the garrison on our side; and at worst should only have to hold this part of the Castle for some two days. With our hundred men we could maintain it against half an army, especially with the army disorganized and leaderless. Mademoiselle could remain with the Duchess in perfect safety, because the Governor would be in our hands.”
“It is like you, Dubois, and might succeed; but I see a thousand difficulties.”
“There are difficulties every way; but as I told you to-day, I know the disaffection among the men here; and the difficulties stoutly faced would yield.”
Gerard thought earnestly a moment and then shook his head.
“The hazard is too great. If we can but once reach the courtyard, Pascal is there with a force enough to get us through the breach in the wall I noticed to-day; and we can then leave the city. Can you guide us by a safe way to the courtyard, Pierre?”
“It may be done, my lord; but ’tis now close on the hour for the change of guard.”
“Then I decide for that,” broke in Gerard. “Lead the way.”