They had to descend one floor by a wooden staircase, dark and narrow.

He went ahead, carrying the lamp, and halted in the passage.
"You go out, darling, before I put the lamp out." She opened the door, and immediately recoiled with a loud shriek.

She had seen Chevalier standing on the outer steps, with arms extended, tall, black, erect as a crucifix.

His hand grasped a revolver.

The glint of the weapon was not perceptible; nevertheless she saw it quite distinctly.
"What's the matter ?" demanded Ligny, who was turning down the wick of the lamp.
"Listen, but don't come near me!" cried Chevalier in a loud voice.