"I came for that purpose," said Rougemont; "but I repeat, I dare not. You are not sufficiently master of yourself."
"Try me," said Auriol.
"Well," rejoined the other, "I will see what I can do to calm you."
So saying, he disappeared for a few moments, and then returning with a torch, placed it on the ground, and producing a phial, handed it to the captive.
"Drink!" he said.
Without a moment's hesitation Auriol complied.
"It seems to me rather a stimulant than a soothing potion," he remarked, after emptying the phial.
"You are in no condition to judge," rejoined the other.
And he proceeded to unfasten Auriol's chain.
"Now then, come with me," he said, "and do not make any attempt at evasion, or you will rue it."