"Who is with you?" asked the Queen.
"Only Lafayette," was the answer.
"Come in at once, both of you. The King has abdicated and you must conduct us to a place of safety."
Scheffer and his companion ran up the steps, the Queen unbolted the door with her own hands, and they entered. Inside the hallway they found Louis Philippe dressed as for a journey, with no sign of kingly trappings. With them were their sons and several grandchildren.
They filed out of the palace, through the garden, and into the Place de la Concorde—that spot of ghastly memories.
The King looked about nervously. Some of the mob recognized him.
Scheffer concluded that a bold way was the best, and stepping ahead of Louis Philippe, called in a voice of authority, "Make way—make way for the King!"
The crowd parted dumb with incredulity at the strange sight.
By the fountain in the square stood a public carriage, and into this shabby vehicle of the night the royal passengers were packed.
Dumas, who had followed the procession, mounted the box.