M. Belmont instantly complied. As Batoche signified his intention of going along, in order to see them safe within the walls, Zulma earnestly demanded permission to accompany him. M. Belmont, Pauline, and Cary tried their best to dissuade her, but the old soldier silenced their objections by at once according his consent. The wounded officer having received the last attention for the night, the party took their departure. They reached Quebec without incident, and Batoche readily found an opening for them into the town from a ravine in the valley of the St. Charles.
Zulma and Pauline embraced each other fervidly.
"Before we separate, I have a dreadful secret to tell you," said Pauline.
"What is it, my dear?"
"Do you know who pointed the gun that wounded the Captain?"
"I do not."
"Can't you guess?"
"No."
"It was Roderick Hardinge."
The eyes of the two friends exchanged sparks of fire.