I
laid my ear to the chink. I could hear no words, but Detchard's head was
close to that of the taller of his companions (De Gautet, I guessed).
"H'm! Private communications," thought I. Then I said aloud:
"Well, gentlemen, what's the offer?"
"A safe-conduct to the frontier, and fifty thousand pounds English."
"No, no," whispered Antoinette in the lowest of whispers. "They are
treacherous."
"That seems handsome," said I, reconnoitring through the chink. They
were all close together, just outside the door now.
I had probed the hearts of the ruffians, and I did not need Antoinette's
warning. They meant to "rush" me as soon as I was engaged in talk.
"Give me a minute to consider," said I; and I thought I heard a laugh
outside.
I turned to Antoinette.
"Stand up close to the wall, out of the line of fire from the door," I
whispered.
"What are you going to do?" she asked in fright.
"You'll see," said I.
I took up the little iron table. It was not very heavy for a man of my
strength, and I held it by the legs. The top, protruding in front of
me, made a complete screen for my head and body. I fastened my closed
lantern to my belt and put my revolver in a handy pocket. Suddenly I saw
the door move ever so slightly--perhaps it was the wind, perhaps it was
a hand trying it outside.
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