CHAPTER XVII.
"How long, Chemist ?" "Two hours, perhaps." "So long ?" After a moment he said dreamily: "It is but a step." The Little Chemist nodded, though he did not understand.

The Cure stooped over him.
"A step, my son ?" he asked, thinking he spoke of the voyage the soul takes.
"To the Tuileries," answered Valmond, and he smiled.

The Cure's brow clouded; he wished to direct the dying man's thoughts elsewhere.

"It is but a step--anywhere," he continued; and looked towards the Little Chemist.

"Thank you, dear monsieur, thank you.