CHAPTER XII.
AN ALLIANCE DECLINED As the Emperor left the room, followed by the officers and men, a little silence fell over the three people remaining therein.
"Monsieur le Comte d'Aumenier!" exclaimed the Countess Laure, wonder, derision and disdain in her voice.

"Your chateau, your domain!" She looked about the great hall and laughed scornfully.

Young Marteau turned crimson.

He threw up his head proudly.
"Mademoiselle----" he began sternly, his voice full of indignant protest and resentment.
"Don't be too hard on the lad, Countess," interposed the Englishman, his interest aroused.

"By gad, he saved your honor, your life, and----" "And, if I mistake not, I repaid the obligation by saving his life also, sir." "And I recognize it, and am grateful, mademoiselle." "I am ordered to report to you, sir," said a young man, coming into the room followed by a file of dismounted soldiers, and relieving a situation growing most tense.
"Very good," said Marteau, devoutly thankful for the interruption.
"You will dispose your men so as to guard the approaches of the chateau at every hand.