"Monsieur de Talizac," he said, "you tried to kill me once before, in the Black Forest—take care!"
Fongereues had no arms. Cyprien had been wiser. He, too, drew a pistol, but before he could touch the trigger, Pierre had opened the door behind him.
"For a valet," he said, "a dog is all that is required."
A dog of the Vosges, as large as a wolf, with bloodshot eyes and bristling hair, flew at Cyprien's throat, who fell on the floor.
"Help! Help!" cried the scoundrel.
The Marquis, livid with terror, had succeeded in opening the door.
"Here, Cliepé! Here!" shouted Pierre.
The dog gave Cyprien another furious shake, and dropped him. He rolled himself out of the door. Pierre flung it to and bolted it.
"Farewell!" he cried. "You will get your punishment in another world!"