"We are the two men whose deaths would be most pleasing to our respective parties. This is my offer; accept it and you are saved. Give Lantenac to us and take me in his place; he will be guillotined, and with me you may do what you will."
"Priest," howled the Imânus, "if we but had you, we would roast you over a slow fire."
"So be it," said Cimourdain; and he went on:—
"You, the condemned who are in this tower, in one hour may all be safe and free. I offer you salvation. Will you accept?"
The Imânus burst out:—
"You are a fool as well as a villain. Why do you interfere with us? Who invited you to come here with your speeches? You expect us to deliver up Monseigneur, do you? What do you want to do with him?"
"I want his head, and I offer you—"