As it reached the throat there was a spasmodic contraction that gave Maitre Laurent an instant of intense anxiety--but it was only momentary, and the remainder of the dose was swallowed easily and with almost instantaneous effect.

A slight tinge of colour showed itself in the pallid cheeks, the eyelids trembled and half unclosed, and the hand that had lain inert and motionless upon the counterpane stirred a little.

Then the young duke heaved a deep sigh, and opening his eyes looked vacantly in about him, like one awakening from a dream, or returning from those mysterious regions whither the soul takes flight when unconsciousness holds this mortal frame enthralled.

Only a glance, and the long eyelashes fell again upon the pale cheeks--but a wonderful change had passed over the countenance.
"I staked everything on that move," said Maitre Laurent to himself, with a long breath of relief, "and I have won.

It was either kill or cure--and it has not killed him.