“So far as I'm concerned,” said Maurice, who needed liberty not half so much as sleep, “I pass my word.”
“And you, sir?” to Fitzgerald.
Fitzgerald gazed about him. “Very well,” he said, as he saw the futility of a struggle.
“Your humble servant, Messieurs,” touching his cap. “Take the ropes off their ankles, men.”
When Maurice was lifted from his horse and placed on the ground, his legs suddenly bent under him, and he went sprawling to the grass. A trooper sprang to his assistance.
“My legs have gone to sleep!”
The Englishman was affected likewise, and it was some moments before either could walk. They were conducted to a chamber high up in the left wing, which overlooked the forest and the mountains. It was a large airy room, but the windows were barred and there were double locks on the doors. The Colonel followed them into the room and pointed to the table.
“Breakfast, Messieurs, and a good sleep for you till this noon. As for the rest, let that take care of itself.” And he left them.
Maurice, after having tried all the bars and locks in answer to his conscience, gave his attention to the breakfast. On lifting the covers he found fish, eggs, toast and coffee.
“Here's luck!” he cried. “We were expected.”