The Huguenot flung up his hands and staggered back, falling his length on the floor.
In an instant Count Hannibal was on his breast, and had knocked away his dagger.

Then-- "You own yourself vanquished ?" he cried.
The young man, blinded by the blood which trickled down his face, made a sign with his hands.

Count Hannibal rose to his feet again, and stood a moment looking at his foe without speaking.

Presently he seemed to be satisfied.

He nodded, and going to the table dipped a napkin in water.
He brought it, and carefully supporting Tignonville's head, laved his brow.
"It is as I thought," he said, when he had stanched the blood.