She counted the moments, which seemed to linger in their flight, and started at the slightest sound, till sufficient time had elapsed to convince her that he must have proceeded far on his way, towards a place of safety.
The dreaded discovery was indeed deferred beyond her utmost expectations.

The guard, who was to relieve Antoine, repaired to his post at the appointed time; and, though surprised to find it vacated, yet as the door was perfectly secure, he contented himself with uttering an oath at his comrade's negligence, and in a few moments it was almost forgotten.

An hour or more passed away, and no motion was heard within; morning advanced--he thought it strange that his prisoner should enjoy such sound repose, and a suspicion of the truth began to dawn upon his mind.

He unbarred the door, and his suspicions were, of course, instantly realized.

Repenting the easy faith which had suffered him to delay an examination, he hastened to impart the intelligence, which soon spread dismay and confusion throughout the garrison.
Madame d'Aulney heard the loud voices, and hurried steps of the soldiers without, and the quick note of alarum, whose fearful summons could not be mistaken.