As yet they were not compromised; but if they intended to carry out their plans, they must no longer remain inactive; and both of these men had sufficient experience to know that they must look at the position boldly, and make up their minds at once.
The pleasant smile upon the doctor's face faded away, and his fingers played nervously with his locket.

Mascarin was the first to break the silence.
"Let us no longer hesitate," said he; "let us shut our eyes to the danger and advance steadily.

You heard the promises made by the Marquis de Croisenois.

He will do as we wish, but under certain conditions.
Mademoiselle de Mussidan must be his bride." "That will be impossible." "Not so, if we desire it: and the proof of this is, that before two o'clock the engagement between Mademoiselle Sabine and the Baron de Breulh-Faverlay will be broken off." The doctor heaved a deep sigh.

"I can understand Catenac's scruples.