I labored for hours before I succeeded in obtaining egress from the garden.

Now behold me saved from a frightful death through the miraculous protection of God, and restored to all that is dear to me on earth!" The bailiff's voice was heard, issuing his commands, in the vestibule.
Turchi comprehended the order.

He cast himself on his knees, extended his hands, and weeping, cried out: "Oh! Messire Van Schoonhoven,--Geronimo,--I have been guilty of a frightful crime.

I deserve your hatred, your contempt and death; but have pity on me! Spare me the shame of the scaffold; do not cover my family with eternal infamy.

Exile me to the ends of the earth; but pardon, pardon, deliver me not to the executioner!" Five officers of justice appeared at the door.
"What are your commands ?" asked the chief.
"Bind the signor's hands behind his back!" "Heavens! bind my hands like a thief!" exclaimed Turchi.
"Bind the hands of a nobleman ?" repeated the chief in surprise.
"Execute my order immediately! This nobleman is an infamous robber and a cowardly assassin.