From outside had already come the third and final summons: "Open, in the name of the people!" After that a crowbar would break open the door.
Madame Belhomme's heavy footsteps were heard crossing the ante-chamber.
Armand still knelt at Jeanne's feet, holding her trembling little hand in his.
"A love-scene," she whispered rapidly, "a love-scene--quick--do you know one ?" And even as he had tried to rise she held him back, down on his knees.
He thought that fear was making her distracted.
"Mademoiselle--" he murmured, trying to soothe her.
"Try and understand," she said with wonderful calm, "and do as I tell you.

Aunt Marie has obeyed.

Will you do likewise ?" "To the death!" he whispered eagerly.
"Then a love-scene," she entreated.

"Surely you know one.

Rodrigue and Chimene! Surely--surely," she urged, even as tears of anguish rose into her eyes, "you must--you must, or, if not that, something else.