They were asking themselves whether, even so remotely as by tending the girl, they dared participate in the violence La Boulaye had committed.

That a swift vengeance would be the Seigneur's answer they were well assured, and a great fear possessed them that in that vengeance those of the Chateau might lack discrimination.

Charlot was amongst them, and on his feet, but still too dazed to have a clear knowledge of the circumstances.

Presently, however, his faculties awakening and taking in the situation, he staggered forward, and came lurching towards La Boulaye, who was assisting the frightened Marie to rise.

With a great sob the girl flung herself into her husband's arms.
"Charlot, mon Charlot!" she cried, and added a moment later: "It was he--this brave gentleman--who rescued me." "Monsieur," said Charlot, "I shall remember it to my dying day." He would have said more, but the peasants, stirred by fear, now roused themselves and plucked at his coat.
"Get you gone, Charlot, Get you gone quickly," they advised him.