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Updated: May 16, 2025
"Never!" exclaimed the giant, redoubling his efforts to escape, and writhing so vigorously that Latour and Darmont had to strain every sinew to retain their hold of his huge body. Eugene eyed his prisoner with withering scorn. "You hear him, captain! He says 'Never! as though it were for him to decide whether or not my judgment is a righteous one.
"They will not molest me. Barbesieur Louvois has reached the gates, and I must greet him ere he goes. Come, Latour and Darmont, and show me the way by the private staircase. The rest of you keep your posts and be watchful, for the struggle may be renewed, and it is just possible that I may have to order you to fire. And now shall I conduct my mother to her boudoir?"
They were not a very valiant-looking body of troops, but their commander made no comment upon their dismayed faces. He merely counted them and spoke to his valet. "Darmont, conduct these men to the armory, and provide each one with a musket. Let them handle the guns carefully, for they are heavily loaded. Bring me my pistols also. And now, away! and return quickly."
But they had forgotten the precaution given them as regarded his wounded arm, for as they touched him he had been unable to suppress a cry of pain. "Hold him, Latour," said the prince, "and you, Darmont, close the gates so that only one man may pass at a time. Some of those guards might be of service to us. Have I your permission to employ them, captain?"
Silently, and, to all appearances, not much edified by these recommendations, the domestics followed Darmont, while Eugene returned to his station at the window. "Not only have they a leader," said he, "but I believe that they were instigated to make this attack, mother."
Eugene soon perceived the tall form of the ringleader, although he had borrowed the hat of his companion, and wore it slouched far down over his face. As he approached the entrance, Eugene gave the signal agreed upon, and he was seized by Latour and Darmont.
"For all this destruction we have to thank yonder churl," continued he, pointing to a man of almost gigantic stature, who was struggling to free himself from the hands of Latour and Darmont. "Not content with the laurels he has won as the ringleader of a mob, he has aspired to achieve renown by defaming women.
There are twelve of you, and the hall has seven openings. Leave the central window free, and station yourselves two at each one of the other six. Throw open the casements, cock your guns, and be ready for the word of command. Darmont, give me my pistols." With one of these in either hand, Eugene stationed himself at the window in the centre, while his mother stood by his side.
"Latour and Darmont, station yourselves one on either side of me, while I unlock the gates." They took their positions, and Eugene slowly drew out his ponderous keys. They were heard to click in the locks, and at the welcome sound, there was a shout of joy from the imprisoned rioters. They pressed eagerly forward the gates parted and the crowd began to pour out into the streets.
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