"Even when you ask for the release of one of the leaders of the conspiracy to save the queen?"
"Yes; he will not refuse me."
Coursegol reflected a moment. Vauquelas, still on his knees before him, looked up, trying to read his fate in the stern face above him.
"Listen," said Coursegol at last. "I will spare your life on certain conditions. It depends upon yourself whether you are to live or die."
"Name them. I will obey!" murmured Vauquelas, servilely, beginning to breathe freely once more.
"To-morrow by sunset, I must receive from you a blank order signed by Robespierre which will enable me to obtain the release of two prisoners."
"You shall have it."
"I also desire that Robespierre shall remain in ignorance of the names of the prisoners who are to be released."
"He shall not know."