There were present the Attorney General, the Public Prosecutor, his deputy, the Governor of the prison, and behind these, M. Havard, Deibler, and his two assistants.
The little company passed through the corridors to the third floor, where the condemned cells are.
The warder Nibet came forward with his bunch of keys in his hand.
Deibler looked at the Public Prosecutor.
"Are you ready, sir?" and as that gentleman, who was very white, made a sign of assent, Deibler looked at the Governor of the prison.
"Unlock the cell," the Governor ordered.
Nibet turned the key noiselessly and pushed open the door.
The Public Prosecutor stepped forward. He had hoped to find the condemned man asleep, and so have had a moment's respite before announcing the fatal news. But he drew back; for the man was awake and dressed, sitting ready on his bed with mad, haggard eyes.
"Gurn," said the Public Prosecutor. "Be brave! Your appeal has been rejected!"