"But, father, something has taken place. All Domme is in commotion. The streets are full."
"Full!" in a scream; "talking of me—of my disgrace! Call my lieutenant; I will send the pikemen through the streets to clear them—to silence the chattering rogues."
"But what does this all mean, father?"
"Come here, child." He waved his arm without looking at her. She obeyed. She stepped to his side and stood by the table.
"Father, your fingers are bleeding; you have gnawed them."
"Have I? It matters not. My feet are bleeding, my brain is bleeding, my honour is bled to death."
"What has happened?"
He took her hand. The only soft part in this terrible man was his love for Noémi, and that was rarely shown.
"What are the Del' Peyras to you?" he asked roughly.
"Nothing, father."