The next instant the door was thrown open and into the room half clad, sword in hand, burst the Marquis.

With him were Sir Gervaise Yeovil and the young Captain, and attending them were servants and guards bearing lights.
The Marquis stared from his niece back to the young officer.
"My God!" he exclaimed.

"Is it you ?" Marteau could only bow.

He had a few seconds to make up his mind, a few seconds to decide upon the role he must play.

Well, his life was certainly forfeit, his reputation he would also give for hers.