"Why?"
"Because he has wronged a friend who is as dear to me as life."
"Oh!"
"Don't puzzle your brain over this; you won't be enlightened. It is sufficient for you to know that you can serve me if you choose, because we are both enemies of the same men." Then, rising, "Now choose; will you remain here as my ally, or leave in disgrace, and a prisoner, as my enemy?"
Cora reflected, and finally said: "I accept your terms."
"Very good; and now for precautions. You must allow me to supply you with a maid."
"What?"
"You are an invalid; I am well and strong. What could be more natural than that I should desire you to have every care and comfort that I can desire? I shall give you my maid; she will supply the place of Céline Leroque."
"I won't have her," cried Cora, angrily. "I won't have a jailer."
"Certainly not; you will have my maid, however. I will get another to-morrow."