The fracas
that ensued gave Chiquita time to reach the carriage of the Duke of
Vallombreuse--which, taking advantage of the stir and shifting in the
throng, was slowly making its way out of the Place de Greve. She climbed
up on the step, and catching sight of de Sigognac within, appealed to
him, in scarcely audible words, as she panted and trembled--"I saved
your Isabelle, now save me!"
Vallombreuse, who had been very much interested by this strange and
exciting scene, cried to the coachman, "Get on as fast as you can, even
if you have to drive over the people."
But there was no need--the crowd opened as if by magic before the
carriage, and closed again compactly after it had passed, so that
Chiquita's pursuers could not penetrate it, or make any progress--they
were completely baffled, whichever way they turned. Meanwhile the
fugitive was being rapidly carried beyond their reach. As soon as the
open street was gained, the coachman had urged his horses forward,
and in a very few minutes they reached the Porte Saint Antoine. As
the report of what had occurred in the Place de Greve could not have
preceded them, Vallombreuse thought it better to proceed at a more
moderate pace--fearing that their very speed might arouse suspicion--and
gave orders accordingly; as soon as they were fairly beyond the gate
he took Chiquita into the carriage--where she seated herself, without a
word, opposite to de Sigognac.
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