Mon Dieu! was that a noise overhead? I could see nothing, yet, as I leaned further out, a cord touched my face. I grasped it, and drew the dangling end in. It was weighted with a bit of wood. A single coal glowed in the fireplace, and from this I ignited a splinter, barely yielding me light enough to decipher the few words traced on the white surface: “Safe so far; have you any word?”
My veins throbbed; I could have screamed in delight, or sobbed in sudden joy and relief. I fairly crept to the window on hands and knees, animated now with but one thought, one hope––the desire not to be left here behind, alone. I hung far out, my face upturned, staring into the darkness. The distance was not great, only a few feet to the roof above, yet so black was the night that the edge above me blended imperceptibly against the sky. I could perceive no movement, no outline. Could they have already gone? Was it possible that they merely dropped this brief message, and instantly vanished? No, the cord still dangled; somewhere in that dense gloom, the two men peered over the roof edge waiting my response.
“Monsieur,” I called up softly, unable to restrain my eagerness.
“Yes, Madame,” it was De Artigny’s voice, although 347 a mere whisper. “You have some word for me?”
“Ay, listen; is there any way by which I can join you?”
“Join me––here?” astonishment at my request made him incoherent. “Why, Madame, the risk is great––”
“Never mind that; my reason is worthy, nor have we time now to discuss the matter. Monsieur Boisrondet is there a way?”
I heard them speak to each other, a mere murmur of sound; then another voice reached my ears clearly.
“We have a strong grass rope, Madame, which will safely bear your weight. The risk will not be great. I have made a noose, and will lower it.”
I reached it with my hand, but felt a doubt as my fingers clasped it.