It was his own hand that had precipitated the attack.

But a larger truth came to him now, like a dazzling inspiration.

If he had thus precipitated the attack before they were ready, there was a chance that it was imperfect, and there was still hope.

But there was no trace of this visible in his face as he fixed his eyes calmly on hers, although his pulses were halting in expectancy as he said-- "Then the spy had suspected you, and changed it." "Oh, no," she said eagerly, "for the spy was with me and was frightened too.

We both ran back together--you remember--she was stopped by the patrol!" She checked herself suddenly, but too late.