When he felt the planks under him, he was at ease, and joked to show his courage.
Therese had remained on the bank, standing grave and motionless beside her sweetheart, who held the rope.

He bent down, and rapidly murmured in an undertone: "Be careful.

I am going to pitch him in the river.

Obey me.

I answer for everything." The young woman turned horribly pale.