No, let me direct the expedition, and I'll answer for everything.' "'As you like,' he replied, with fairly good grace.
"Then, after satisfying myself that all the windows of the two galleries were thoroughly secure, I placed Frederic Larsan at the end of the 'off-turning' gallery, before the window which I had found open and had reclosed.
"'Under no consideration,' I said to him, 'must you stir from this post till I call you.

The chances are even that the man, when he is pursued, will return to this window and try to save himself that way; for it is by that way he came in and made a way ready for his flight.

You have a dangerous post.' "'What will be yours ?' asked Fred.
"'I shall spring into the room and knock him over for you.' "'Take my revolver,' said Fred, 'and I'll take your stick.' "'Thanks,' I said; 'You are a brave man.' "I accepted his offer.

I was going to be alone with the man in the room writing and was really thankful to have the weapon.
"I left Fred, having posted him at the window (No.

5 on the plan), and, with the greatest precaution, went towards Monsieur Stangerson's apartment in the left wing of the chateau.