Saying this he took a step toward the door. I dashed forward ahead of him, barred his passage and said:
"You shall not go out! You mean to flee from the punishment that is due to your crimes—"
Tetrik looked me from head to feet with icy haughtiness, and half turning towards Victoria, said:
"What! In your house, violence is attempted upon an old man! Upon a relative who comes to you unsuspecting—"
"I shall respect that which is considered sacred in all countries—hospitality," answered the Mother of the Camps. "You came to me freely, you shall go out freely."
"Sister!" I cried. "Be careful! Your confidence has proved fatal once before—"
Victoria interrupted me with a gesture, and said bitterly:
"You are right—my confidence has been fatal to the country; it weighs upon my heart with remorse—but fear not this time."
Saying this she rang the bell. Mora entered almost immediately. Her mistress whispered a few words in her ear and the servant quickly went out again.
"Tetrik," Victoria proceeded, "I have sent for Captain Paul and several officers. They will come here for you. They will accompany you to your lodging—you shall not leave the place but to appear before your judges."