"I go on at once. You know my orders—'to lose no time.' If it had been necessary, I should have taken you to Rancy, but as it turns out I have no excuse for not going on at once."
"At once?" she repeated in a little voice like a child's.
He nodded, and walked to the window, where he stood looking out for a moment.
"The horses are in," he said, turning again. "It is time I took my seat."
He passed out, saluting Pinel and Madelon, who was much elated by his bow.
Aline followed him into the square, and saw that the other two passengers were in their places. Her heart had begun to beat so violently that she thought it impossible that he should not hear it, but he only threw her a grave, cold look.
"You will like perhaps to know that your friend's case came on yesterday and that she was set free. There was nothing against her," he said, with some constraint.
"Marguerite?"
"Yes, the Citoyenne Matigny. She is free. I thought you would be glad to know."
"Yes—yes—oh, thank you! I am glad!"