Suddenly he raised his arm with a fierce gesture, and exclaimed: "By heaven! I will wait no longer.

I am a fool to hesitate.

I may wait a century before I draw out of Casimir the secret that would enable me to measure swords with my rival.

Listen!" and he grasped my shoulder roughly.

"Stay here, you! If Casimir returns, tell him I have gone for a walk of half an hour.