He poured into her ear a vivid picture of what must inevitably result should Gabrielle reveal the ugly truth, at the same time calmly watching the effect of his words upon her.

Upon her decision depended his whole future as well as hers.

What was Gabrielle's life to hers, asked the man point-blank.

That was the question which decided her--decided her, after long and futile resistance, to promise to commit the act which he had suggested.

She gave the man her hand in pledge.
Then a slight smile of triumph played about his cruel nether lip, and the pair retraced their steps towards the castle in silence..