We could hear the rascal groping about for a time; then all was still, and he made no reply to our calling. Raoul was furious, and threatened to kill the fellow, when he caught him, a clause very needful to add.
"He has tricked us!" said Raoul, searching for the candle, though with small hope of finding it.
To my astonishment, for I thought Pillot too sharp to leave it behind, the candle lay unbroken not a yard from my feet, and a light soon showed that our guide had disappeared. It was very annoying to be duped in this way, but I could not help laughing at Pillot's craftiness.
"He won't try to get past Armand and Humphreys," said Raoul; "he will hide away in one of the empty rooms."
Suddenly some words spoken by Mazarin months before came into my mind, and I began to rail at my folly.
"Raoul," I cried, "unless we get Peleton out quickly it will be too late. There is a means of communication between the two houses, and Pillot has gone for assistance."
"Peleton isn't likely to be in here," growled Raoul.
"Why not? Pillot would have given you the right key if the room was empty. Anyway we will find out," and taking a run I dashed myself against the door.
Raoul followed, and then we went at it together. Once, twice, thrice. The last time it showed signs of yielding—presently with a crash it burst open.
"Come on," I cried, seizing the candle which I had placed upright against the wall. "Can you see anyone?"