Daumon hesitated. Under the circumstances, it seemed to him very likely that the court would grant Norbert the liberty he desired; he, however, thought it advisable not to say so, and answered boldly, “No, Marquis, it will not do so.”
“Well, then, the Champdoce family have never exposed their differences to the public, nor will I begin to do so,” said Norbert decisively.
The Counsellor seemed surprised at this determination.
“If, Marquis,” he began, “I might venture to advise you—”
“No advice is necessary, my mind is entirely made up, but I need some help, and in twenty-four hours I require a large sum of money—twenty thousand francs.”
“You can have them, Marquis, but I warn you that you will have to pay heavily for the accommodation.”
“That I care nothing for.”
Mademoiselle de Laurebourg was about to speak, but with a gesture of his hand Norbert arrested her.
“Do you not comprehend me, Diana?” said he; “we must fly, and that at once. We can find some safe retreat where we can live happily, where no one will harm us.”
“But this is mere madness!” cried Diana.