I meant to say that I came to seek mademoiselle at the request of one of the condemned, a man named Chanlouineau, who desires to speak with her." "Impossible, my good man," said one of the officers; "they would not allow this lady to visit one of the condemned without special permission----" "Well, she has this permission," said the old soldier.
Assuring himself, with a glance, that he had nothing to fear from anyone present, he added, in lower tones: "This Chanlouineau told me that the cure would understand his reasons." Had the brave peasant really found some means of salvation?
The abbe almost began to believe it.
"You must go with this worthy man, Marie-Anne," said he.
The poor girl shuddered at the thought of seeing Chanlouineau again, but the idea of refusing never once occurred to her.
"Let us go," she said, quietly.
But the corporal did not stir from his place, and winking, according to his habit when he desired to attract the attention of his hearers: "In one moment," he said.

"This Chanlouineau, who seems to be a shrewd fellow, told me to tell you that all was going well.

May I be hung if I can see how! Still such is his opinion.

He also told me to tell you not to stir from this place, and not to attempt anything until mademoiselle returns, which will be in less than an hour.

He swears to you that he will keep his promise; he only asks you to pledge your word that you will obey him----" "We will take no action until an hour has passed," said the abbe.