What a noise there is to-night. Ashe made a fierce effort to still the thumping in his breast and decide what he should do. For the guests there was only one door of entrance or exit, and to reach it he must pass close beside the new-comer. He laid down his et dieu la femme. She heard the rustling, and involuntarily looked round. There was a slight sound-an et dieu la femme. He heard and saw her coming, and sat tranced and motionless, his eyes bent upon her. She came tottering, clinging to the chairs, her hand on her side, till she reached the corner where he was.