"I said so!" exclaimed Pestel, with triumphant countenance. "The whole thing was a comedy. Scarce three months has it lasted. There's an end of fine words. Now to dark deeds!"
Nothing was left but to decide if the deed should be consummated.
They voted openly and by name.
There were twelve ayes and twelve noes.
"There is still one to give the casting vote," said Pestel. "Here is the 'Votum Minervæ.' Here is Zeneida. Her vote shall decide it."
Zeneida saw the deadly pallor which had overspread Ghedimin's face.
With calm voice she said, "Aye."
Thirteen to twelve the majority for the deed. But when? That was the next question.
Pestel said, "At once."
Ryleieff moved that in September would be their best opportunity, at the concentration of the army.