“But that is just what I will not do—at any rate, yet. When I know you are safe, I will do whatever you wish.”

“I do not need your further assistance, monsieur.” This very proudly.

“Can’t you see that you are just a little unjust?”

“You have deceived me grossly, monsieur.”

“Only because you would not let me undeceive you; and I saw, or thought, the only way left was to let you believe what I saw you persisted in believing.”

“You saw it, then, and acted intentionally?” she said, very bitterly.

“Yes; I don’t deny that with regard to what passed between us last. But I thought—I hoped you felt you could trust me.”

She lowered her eyes and avoided the earnest look I directed on her; and there was a pause of some length. Then, without looking at me, she said—

“I can only say now, you are free to go, monsieur.”

“While you are threatened by the dangers I have all unintentionally brought upon you, I will not go.”