CHAPTER XII.
Josephine paused on the landing, and laid her hand on Rose's shoulder.
It was so cold it made Rose shudder, and exacted a promise from her not to contradict a word she should say to Camille.

"I do not go to him for my pleasure, but for his life," she said; "I must deceive him and save him; and then let me lie down and die." "Oh, that the wretch had never been born!" cried Rose, in despair.
But she gave the required promise, and offered to go and tell Camille Josephine was coming to visit him.
But Josephine declined this.

"No," said she; "give me every advantage; I must think beforehand every word I shall say; but take him by surprise, coward and doubleface that I am." Rose knocked at the door.

A faint voice said, "Come in." The sisters entered the room very softly.

Camille sat on the sofa, his head bowed over his hands.