"No, no! for the love of heaven, not that, Monsieur John!" she cried; and for the moment her fine courage was all swallowed up of pity and she became a compassionate woman pleading for a life.
But now my blood was up. "You are my wife," I said, coldly. "If he had a dozen lives I should take them all for that which he said to you."
"But not that way—oh, not that way, I do beseech you!" she begged. "Think of what it will mean to you—and—and to me. For your own sake, Monsieur John."
I took my heel from the man's back.
"Your wish is law to me, dear lady. But your way is clear now; you may go."
She took a step toward the door.
"You will not kill him when I am gone, Monsieur John?"
"By the name he bears he was doubtless born a gentlemen; since you wish it, he shall die like one."
I saw she did not take my meaning; that when she was gone I should let him have his chance to die sword in hand.
"Remember, I have your promise," she said, turning to go. "The army is on the march for Salisbury, and in a little while your friends will be here to—"