“Three days! Three days!!” moaned Vivienne. “It is too late now. He is dead—dead!”
“But you are living,” said the doctor. “Who is dead? I do not understand you.”
“Oh,” cried Vivienne, “I must tell you all, for I know that I can trust you. If I do not, you will not know what I mean. I am Vivienne Batistelli, of Alfieri.”
“I thought so,” said the lady in an undertone.
“You know of the vendetta between the Batistellis and the Della Coscias?”
The doctor nodded.
“Vandemar Della Coscia came back to Corsica. His identity was discovered by my brother Pascal. Vandemar has been in the dungeon chamber for five days without food or drink. I am the only one who can open the dungeon door and release him. I must go to him at once. Help me! Help me!! He must not die!”
“What can we do, Doctor?” asked the lady.
“My horse and carriage are at the door. My dear young lady, get ready at once, and I will take you to Alfieri.”
When Vivienne reached the castle, she at once sought Clarine, who was overjoyed at seeing her again.