And taking them from the chamberlain, who apologised for the inadvertence, he thrust them into his girdle.
Just then Lallières entered the hall, accompanied by Marcelline.
“This lady has desired me to bring her to you, sir,” said the châtelain. “She has a favour to ask of you.”
“Indeed!” exclaimed Warthy, rising and bowing. “I trust it may be in my power to grant it.”
“It is merely that I may be permitted to quit the castle,” said Marcelline.
“Alone, fair lady, at this hour?” rejoined Warthy. “I have too much consideration for you to grant the request.”
“Were I to depart alone, I should have no fear,” she replied, “but I shall have three attendants with me.”
“This is a stratagem to get Bourbon out of the castle,” thought Warthy. “But I will defeat it and secure my prey at the same time. When do you desire to depart?' he added to Marcelline.
“An hour hence,” she replied.
“Well, you have my permission. You have three attendants, you say?”