D’Eglantiers. I’ve heard it read, and——
Maria. Did you let it go out of your own hands?
D’Eglantiers. Insolent, too? Who’s asking questions, you or I?
Maria. A word in confidence, Captain? [Draws him aside.] Don’t you understand?—that was a trick of mine to——
D’Eglantiers. A trick?—a fine trick! I’ll——
Maria. Hush! hush! do! I knew that the Dutch troops were coming, and in order to let you know it privately I wrote it down on that paper. I hoped you would read it by yourself, and then act as circumstances might demand.
D’Eglantiers. Well—in that case! But it is strange, though——
Enter Pluckx.
Pluckx. Captain, it’s time for you to show yourself. Half of our men want to leave, and the villagers are beginning to arm!
D’Eglantiers. What the——[Breaks off, and looks towards the cupboard.] I must get hold of my bonds first. Lieutenant Taelinck, go on. I’ll follow immediately.