“To be brief then, madam,” I answered, “I am charged with an order for the arrest of M. de Launay.”
“M. de Launay is my guest,” she replied haughtily, “and were he King Louis himself I would not give him up!”
“Descending the steps, she stood facing me not ten paces distant”
Doubtless the smallness of our numbers encouraged her in the thought that her servants might offer us effectual resistance. If so, she was speedily undeceived. Even as she spoke there came the sound of many footsteps in the hall without, accompanied by the clank of steel, and Cornet Graham and his troop entered the room.
“It appears to me, madam,” I said calmly, “that you have no option in the matter.”
She looked at me for a moment as if she could not believe her ears—as if I were less than the dirt beneath her feet. So long had she been accustomed to have her slightest wish obeyed, that now to have her will disputed was an experience as novel as it was humiliating.
“You would use force, sir?” she cried incredulously.
“As to that, madam,” I replied, “my answer is written behind me!” and I glanced significantly at the troopers.
“It is plainly written,” she replied quickly, with a woman’s ready wit. “Times are indeed changed,” she continued bitterly, “when we of the house of Ingram must submit to the bidding of the first beggar who carries a sword at his side! But it seems that we must obey the ruling powers, with whom even our own servants are in league!”