I ran after her; but, taken by surprise as I was, it was only by
a great effort I reached the gate before her, and thrusting
myself in the road, barred the way.
'Let me pass!' she panted, striving to thrust me on one side.
'Out of my way, sir! I am going to the village.'
'You are not going to the village,' I said sternly. 'Go back; to
the house, Mademoiselle, and at once.'
'My servant!' she wailed. 'Let me go! Let me go! Do you think
I can rest here while they torture him? He cannot speak, and
they--they--'
'Go back, Mademoiselle,' I said, with decision. 'Your presence
would only make matters worse! I will go myself, and what one
man can do against many, I will! Louis, give your mistress your
arm and take her to the house. Take her to Madame.'
'But you will go?' she cried. And before I could stay her--I
swear I would have stopped her if I could--she raised my hand and
carried it to her trembling lips. 'You will go! Go and stop
them! Stop them, and Heaven reward you, Monsieur!'
I did not answer; nay, I did not once look back, as I crossed the
meadow; but I did not look forward either.
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