I could hear, mingled with the throbbings of my heart, the steady croaking of the frogs in a pond near the stables; but no other sound.

In a frenzy of impatience and disgust, I stood up again and hammered, kicking with my heels on the nail-studded door, and crying out desperately,-- 'A MOI! A MOI!' Then, or a moment later, I heard a remote door opened; footsteps as of more than one person drew near.

I raised my voice and cried again,-- 'A MOI!' 'Who is there ?' a voice asked.
'A gentleman in distress,' I answered piteously, moving my hands across the door.

'For God's sake open and let me in.

I am hurt, and dying of cold.' 'What brings you here ?' the voice asked sharply.