"
"Very well, then; let it be a sacrifice--as you will! I am a willing
victim! I owe you a debt of gratitude; I want to pay it. Now go and
order the carriage; I will wait here for you."
Every drop of blood in his body rebelled against his accepting this
offer. A woman rescue a strong man from a threatened danger! And at what
a risk!
"Well," a trifle impatiently exclaimed the baroness, as he still
lingered, "are n't you going to fetch your cloak? I am ready for the
drive."
Without another word the count turned and strode toward the castle.
Marie was satisfied with the excuse he made for not taking her with him
as usual: he said he had urgent business in the neighboring village, and
would have to drive there alone.
Then he ordered Henry to harness the horses to the carriage, and drive
down to the gate, where he would await him.
He found the baroness waiting for him where he had left her.
"Well," she began, when he came near enough to hear her, "have you
decided to take me with you?"
"No."
"Then you are going to take the lady?"
"No."
"Not? Then who is going with you?"
"These two pistols," replied the count, flinging back his cloak and
revealing the weapons thrust into his pocket.
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