“On the floor at Melun's feet there slowly grew a glittering pile of jewels”
“My friends,” he cried, “I greatly regret this outrage. Any loss which you may suffer at the hands of these thieves I will, of course, make good, but let me implore you to do everything in your power to prevent any bloodshed.”
“Be silent!” thundered Melun. “You were not asked to speak. Lady Kathleen, will you be kind enough to leave your father and join the other ladies?”
Lady Kathleen faced him with flaming eyes. “No!” she cried. “My place is by my father's side.”
She took her father's arm and stood the very picture of defiance, looking scornfully at Melun and his men.
“Very well,” said Melun, quietly; “have your own way.”
“Now we will proceed to business,” he continued, “and I will ask you ladies and gentlemen to be quick; my time is short, and if we are to leave free of interference there is not much time to spare.
“You, gentlemen,” he said, addressing the men, “collect all the jewellery that the ladies hand you, pass it on, and throw it here.” He pointed to the floor at his feet.