“What! the friend of the traitor Bourbon!” exclaimed the Amazon. “Do you imagine I will let him go? Never! I will rather hang him. Let thirty of the corps step forward and take charge of these men,” she shouted.
The order was obeyed with surprising celerity, and Pomperant and Hugues were environed by a double row of spears.
“Take the prisoners before Renzo da Ceri,” said the Amazon. “He will dispose of them.”
“Marphise!” cried Marcelline, “if you have any love for me do not act thus. You need have no fear of the Seigneur Pomperant. I will answer for him with my life.”
The Amazon reflected for a moment.
“Is he content to remain a prisoner on parole?” she demanded.
“Most assuredly,” replied Marcelline.
“Let him answer for himself,” cried the Amazon. “Will you pledge your word that you will not attempt to quit Marseilles without permission?” she added to Pomperant.
“Do not hesitate,” whispered Marcelline. “If you are taken before Renzo or Chabot de Brion, you are lost.”
“Now, your answer?” cried Marphise.