After a moment he shut the door quietly, and, standing with his back to it, addressed the prisoner: "I perceive, sir, that my sister has told you the news.

We have effected an exchange for you, and the Commandant tells me that to-morrow, if the roads permit, you will be sent down to Plymouth and released.

It is unnecessary for you to thank me; it would, indeed, be offensive.

I wish you a safe passage home, and pray heaven to spare me the annoyance of seeing your face again." As Raoul bowed and moved away, dragging his feet weakly in their list slippers, Mr.Westcote turned to the Commandant, who during this address had kept a discreet distance.
"With your leave, we will continue our stroll, and return for my sister in a few minutes." The Commandant jumped at the suggestion.
Dorothea heard their footsteps retreating, and knew that her brother's thoughtfulness had found her this short respite.

She had dropped into the orderly's chair, and now bowed her head upon the prison doctor's ledger, which lay open on the table before it.
"Oh, my love! How could you do it?
How could you?
How could you ?".