It has been seen that, notwithstanding the darkness, the first ball had passed hardly more than an inch above De Guiche's head.

De Wardes had so confidently relied upon his aim, that he thought he had seen De Guiche fall; his astonishment was extreme when he saw that he still remained erect in his saddle.

He hastened to fire his second shot, but his hand trembled, and he killed the horse instead.

It would be a most fortunate chance for him if De Guiche were to remain held fast under the animal.

Before he could have freed himself, De Wardes would have loaded his pistol and had De Guiche at his mercy.