At that instant the Cure, with Medallion, came hurrying round the corner
of the church.
"Fools! Murderers!" he said to the soldiers. "Ah, these poor
children!"
Stooping, he lifted up Valmond's head, and Medallion felt Lagroin's
pulseless heart.
The officer picked up Valmond's pistol. A moment afterwards he looked at
the dying man in wonder; for he found that the weapon was not loaded!
CHAPTER XVII
"How long, Chemist?"
"Two hours, perhaps."
"So long?"
After a moment he said dreamily: "It is but a step."
The Little Chemist nodded, though he did not understand. The Cure
stooped over him.
"A step, my son?" he asked, thinking he spoke of the voyage the soul
takes.
"To the Tuileries," answered Valmond, and he smiled. The Cure's brow
clouded; he wished to direct the dying man's thoughts elsewhere. "It
is but a step--anywhere," he continued; and looked towards the Little
Chemist. "Thank you, dear monsieur, thank you. There is a silver night-
lamp in my room; I wish it to be yours. Adieu, my friend.
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