"So, sir," said Adrienne, almost terrified, "compared with what awaits me, the last few days have been days of liberty."
"Your interest before everything," answered the doctor, in a fervent tone.
Mdlle. de Cardoville, feeling the impotence of her indignation and despair, heaved a deep sigh, and hid her face in her hands.
At this moment, quick footsteps were heard in the passage, and one of the nurses entered, after having knocked at the door.
"Sir," said she to the doctor, with a frightened air, "there are two gentlemen below, who wish to see you instantly, and the lady also."
Adrienne raised her head hastily; her eyes were bathed in tears.
"What are the names of these persons?" said M. Baleinier, much astonished.
"One of them said to me," answered the nurse: "'Go and inform Dr.
Baleinier that I am a magistrate, and that I come on a duty regarding
Mdlle. de Cardoville.'"
"A magistrate!" exclaimed the Jesuit of the short robe, growing purple in the face, and unable to hide his surprise and uneasiness.
"Heaven be praised!" cried Adrienne, rising with vivacity, her countenance beaming through her tears with hope and joy; "my friends have been informed in time, and the hour of justice is arrived!"