"
"This is unfair!" were the first words of the governor, after his season
of dumb astonishment.
"Pardon me," said I. "It is but having you, let us say, at a slight
disadvantage; and now I think I may move."
I walked over to the governor's table and took up the bowl. La Chatre
watched me in helpless chagrin, informing himself by a side glance that
Frojac's weapon still covered him.
"You look somewhat irritated and disgusted, monsieur," said I. "Pray
sit down!"
As I held my sword across the table, the point in close proximity to his
chest, he obeyed, uttering a heavy sigh at his powerlessness. I then
threw the bowl into the bed, taking careful aim so that it might make no
sound. At that moment I saw La Chatre look towards the chamber in which
were Montignac and mademoiselle, and there came on his face the sign of
a half-formed project.
"See also, Frojac," said I, "that he does not open his mouth to shout."
"He shall be as silent as if born dumb, monsieur."
"Oh, he may speak, but not so loud as to be heard in the next chamber.
Look to it, Frojac."
"Very well, monsieur."
For I did not wish, as yet, that Montignac should know what was going on.
Through the closed door and the thick tapestried walls, only a loud cry,
or some such sound as a stroke on the resonant bowl or tray, could have
reached him. We had spoken in careful tones, La Chatre not daring to
raise his voice.
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