“You are suffering. Let me assist you.”
“Stand back! Do not touch me!” and Vivienne retreated towards the door which led from the room.
“What was that?” She bent low and listened. It was the sound of many feet on the stairway. They came nearer and nearer; then there were shouts and cries.
Summoning all her strength, she shot the rusty bolt into place. Some one tried to open the door, but it resisted his efforts. Then heavy blows rained upon it and a voice cried:
“Open the door! You cannot escape! We have you safely cornered.”
There was a lull for a moment, then Vivienne heard her brother’s voice:
“Vivienne, I command you to open the door. If you do not, it will be broken down.”
Vivienne heard the command, but she did not obey it; instead, she turned a pleading face to Vandemar.
“I will open it,” he said, and placed his hand upon the bolt.
She grasped his hand and pulled it away. “Come with me,” she said, in a hoarse whisper. He followed her, wondering what the meaning of this new move might be.