"That is why we want the child! There is nothing would humble him save perchance to find he could not save the child he loves from torture. Ha! ha! we shall have a merry time then!"
"Doubtless this Marigny is no friend to the republic," said the farmer hesitatingly.
The corporal laughed noisily as he gathered up his horse's reins. "Head and front of this insurrection—an accursed rebel! But he shall pay for it, he shall pay; and so will all those fools who have helped him!"
And the little band of soldiers rode away, shouting and jesting, leaving Jean Paulet with a heart full of fear.
With trembling fingers he pushed open the house door, and, stepping into the kitchen, found Rosette crouched beneath the open window. "Heard you what they said—that they are seeking for you?" he gasped.
Rosette nodded. "They have done that this long time," she observed coolly.
"They must find You!"
"But—but—some time they must find you!" he stammered.
Rosette laughed. "Perhaps—if I become as stupid a coward as Jean Paulet."
The farmer frowned. "I am no coward—I am an experienced man. And I tell you—I, with the weight of forty years behind me—that they will find you some time."