“Are you prepared,” he said, “to keep silence as to all that has transpired since you crossed the threshold of this house? I will be content with your word of honour.”
“No!” Brand answered, firmly. “I cannot make any such promise.”
Marie turned upon them both with flaming cheeks.
“Let the King know all,” she cried. “What does it matter now? This is my house, as well as yours, Nicholas, and I say that Mr. Brand shall leave it when and how he pleases. Baron Domiloff, I order you to withdraw, and take your soldiers with you.”
But Domiloff only shook his head.
“Countess,” he said, “for your brother’s sake and the sake of Theos I cannot do as you ask. This man’s silence for a few days at least is the one thing necessary to secure our success.”
“Then my silence will be the silence of death,” Brand answered, fiercely. “If you will not let me pass peaceably, I shall fight my way as far as I am able. Stand away, Domiloff. You cursed spy.”
Marie sprang between them. She pushed Brand back.
“Nicholas,” she said, “this is not your affair. It is between Baron Domiloff and myself. You recognize that?”