"You see, M. de la Chatre," said I, "the contents of an arquebus travel faster than a man can."
"This is unfair!" were the first words of the governor, after his season of dumb astonishment.
"Pardon me," said I. "It is but having you, let us say, at a slight disadvantage; and now I think I may move."
I walked over to the governor's table and took up the bowl. La Chatre watched me in helpless chagrin, informing himself by a side glance that Frojac's weapon still covered him.
"You look somewhat irritated and disgusted, monsieur," said I. "Pray sit down!"
As I held my sword across the table, the point in close proximity to his chest, he obeyed, uttering a heavy sigh at his powerlessness. I then threw the bowl into the bed, taking careful aim so that it might make no sound. At that moment I saw La Chatre look towards the chamber in which were Montignac and mademoiselle, and there came on his face the sign of a half-formed project.
"See also, Frojac," said I, "that he does not open his mouth to shout."
"He shall be as silent as if born dumb, monsieur."
"Oh, he may speak, but not so loud as to be heard in the next chamber.
Look to it, Frojac."
"Very well, monsieur."