I heard an answering cry of alarm from the window; and then Madame de Pavannes ran forward and caught her in her arms.
It was strange to find the room lately so silent become at once alive with whispering forms, as we came hastily to light.

I cursed Croisette for his folly, and was immeasurably angry with him, but I had no time to waste words on him then.

I hurried to the door to guard it.

I opened it a hand's breadth and listened.

All was quiet below; the house still.