After the prisoner's counsel had summed up eloquently for his client and the judge had charged the jury, the latter went out, but returned in a short time.
"Gentlemen of the jury, have you agreed upon a verdict?" asked the judge.
There was intense excitement in the court-room, the spectators literally holding their breath.
"Yes," answered the foreman; "we find the prisoner guilty, with extenuating circumstances."
The spectators clapped their hands.
"Prisoner, have you anything to say?" asked the judge.
"No," replied Benedetto, in a calm, dignified manner.
"The sentence of the court is, that you be sent to the galleys for life."
No sooner had the sentence been pronounced than the man who had accompanied Madame Danglars glided toward the bar where Benedetto stood, and whispered something in his ear.
"We have kept our word, have we not?"