"My word, my honour, and that of my father. Send men with me if you will. Only remember now that time is winged and is flying."
With a horrible oath, Le Gros Guillem again struck the table and called to the guards. They approached.
"Take him"—he indicated Jean—"take him to the oubliette chamber," said he; "let cords down, release the man, and let both go as they will."
He flung Noémi's ring on the table, and cast his maimed feet on the pallet once more, and clenched his teeth and knitted his red brows.
Jean took up the ring and said: "I will return this to her."
The guards now conducted him to the keep. Lights were provided, also cords; the door into the cell was opened; and with a shudder Jean entered.
Snatching a torch from one of the men, he went to the breastwork of the well, and leaning over it, let the torch flare down the abyss.
"Father!" he cried; "my father!"
Then he paused for an answer.
There was none.