I saw his intention. I detected the terrible expression of revenge that passed over his features; and sprang towards him.
Another second, and I should have been too late.
The muzzle of the revolver was again pointed at her; his finger was upon the trigger, nevertheless as he pulled it I knocked his arm upwards.
The weapon discharged, but the bullet imbedded itself in the ceiling.
I had saved Vera’s life!
At this moment there were loud shouts in the corridor, and a few seconds later a police inspector, accompanied by two detectives and several waiters, dashed into the room.
“Demetrius Orselska, we have a warrant for your arrest for murder!” announced the officer, sharply, and turning to his men, added, “arrest him?”
Like some hunted animal who is brought to bay, the scoundrel glanced quickly around for means of escape, but finding none, turned and faced them.
A moment’s reflection had decided him.
“You—you shall not take me,” he hissed. “I—I confess I am guilty of the crimes—but—Diable! I will take my own life, and—and you can take my body if it’s any use—you can can do what you like with that, you bloodhounds!”