100 words to know before reading The Scarlet Pimpernel

1. A device with a sharp blade for beheading people, used historically for executions.
2. A paper-cutting tool with a descending blade.

there is no satiety: the crowd had seen a hundred noble heads fall beneath the guillotine today, it wanted to make sure that it would see another hundred fall on the morrow. Bibot was

1. Temporary barriers for blocking or defending an area.
2. Obstacles used in protests or warfare.

sights for the people to witness, a little while before the final closing of the barricades for the night. And so the crowd rushed away from the Place de la Grève and made for the various

1. The best or most excellent individuals in a society.
2. A term derived from Greek, meaning "the best" or "noble."

it all. Sergeant Grospierre had been sent to the guillotine for allowing a whole family of aristos to slip out of the North Gate under his very nose. It was asserted that these escapes were

1. A bright red color with a slightly orange tinge.
2. A type of high-quality woolen cloth, often dyed red.

her old noblesse. Their ancestors had oppressed the people, had crushed them under the scarlet heels of their dainty buckled shoes, and now the people had become the rulers of France and

1. A means of altering appearance to conceal identity.
2. The act of hiding or changing one's true nature or intentions.

play with him, sometimes for quite a quarter of an hour, pretend to be hoodwinked by the disguise, by the wigs and other bits of theatrical makeup which hid the identity of a ci-devant noble

1. A small flowering plant of the primrose family, often with bright red or blue flowers.
2. A nickname for someone who is elusive or hard to catch, inspired by the fictional character "The Scarlet Pimpernel."

aghast. ‘Aye! and the driver was none other than that cursed Englishman, the Scarlet Pimpernel.’ ” A howl of execration greeted this tale. Citoyen Grospierre had paid for his blunder on the

1. The floor of a fireplace, often extending into a room.
2. Symbolically represents home or family life.

flew from mouth to mouth, mixed with heavy puffs of pungent tobacco smoke. Facing the hearth, his legs wide apart, a long clay pipe in his mouth, stood mine host himself, worthy Mr.

1. A term for a lord or noble in medieval times.
2. Short for "ludicrous," meaning absurd or ridiculous.

lets ’ave sich rain in September, for that is agin the law and the Scriptures which says—” “Lud! Mr. ’Arry, ’ow you made me jump!” It was unfortunate for Sally and her flirtation that this

1. The seed of the hemp plant, often used for oil or food.
2. A source of nutrition, rich in protein and fatty acids.

flow of argument. “It do seem more like April than September, don’t it?” continued Mr. Hempseed, dolefully, as a shower of raindrops fell with a sizzle upon the fire. “Aye! that it do,”

1. Sacred writings or texts of a religion.
2. The Bible or other holy books.

again, “but don’t lets ’ave sich rain in September, for that is agin the law and the Scriptures which says—” “Lud! Mr. ’Arry, ’ow you made me jump!” It was unfortunate for Sally and her

1. Informal contraction of "don't know."
2. Used to express uncertainty or lack of knowledge.

Mr. ’Empseed over ’ere!” “Pardon me, Mr. Jellyband,” again interposed Mr. Hempseed feebly, “I dunno as I ever did—” Mr. Jellyband had appealed to the company in general, who were listening

1. Reflexive pronoun in German meaning "oneself" or "himself/herself/itself."
2. Used to indicate actions performed on or by the subject.

up there in Lunnon, I knows that, and it’s not often as I do complain. But when it comes to sich wet weather in September, and all me fruit a-rottin’ and a-dying’ like the ’Guptian mother’s

1. Relating to the aristocracy or nobility.
2. Characterized by elegance, refinement, or superiority.

what can I say?” said the elder of the two ladies, as she stretched a pair of fine, aristocratic hands to the warmth of the blaze, and looked with unspeakable gratitude first at Lord Antony,

1. Full of energetic and noisy activity.
2. Moving quickly and busily.

my pretty Sally,” said the man who had just entered, whilst worthy Mr. Jellyband came bustling forward, eager, alert and fussy, as became the advent of one of the most favoured guests of his

1. A game played with rectangular tiles marked with dots.
2. The tiles used in the game of dominoes.

apparently by their clothes—had pushed aside their half-finished game of dominoes, and had been listening for some time, and evidently with much amusement at Mr. Jellyband’s

1. The evening meal, typically lighter than dinner.
2. A social gathering where a light evening meal is served.

china about. “How many shall I lay for, my lord?” “Five places, pretty Sally, but let the supper be enough for ten at least—our friends will be tired, and, I hope, hungry. As for me, I vow I

1. A nobleman ranking below a count or earl in some European countries.
2. The title or rank of such a nobleman.

women even, in France, have been more bitter against us aristocrats than the men,” said the Vicomte, with a sigh. “Ah, yes,” added the Comtesse, while a look of haughty disdain and intense

1. A French title of respect for a man, equivalent to "Mr." or "sir."
2. Used as a polite form of address for a man in French-speaking contexts.

said Lord Antony, merrily. “May we welcome him in England before many days are over.” “Ah, Monsieur,” said the Comtesse, as with a slightly trembling hand she conveyed her glass to her lips, “I

1. A title of respect for a woman, equivalent to "Mrs." or "Madam."
2. Used to address or refer to a woman in a formal or polite manner.

did not concern them, spent their spare time in snatching away lawful victims destined for Madame la Guillotine. These rumours soon grew in extravagance; there was no doubt that this band of

1. A type of daisy with white petals and a yellow center.
2. A female given name of French origin.

the Marquis de St. Cyr and all his family to the awful tribunal of the Terror.” “Marguerite St. Just?” said Lord Antony, as he shot a quick and apprehensive glance across at Sir Andrew.

1. A small establishment providing lodging, food, and drink (often in a rural setting).
2. A tavern or pub.

trophy on her whip handle! The Comtesse looked round at the quaint, old-fashioned English inn, the peace of this land of civil and religious liberty, and she closed her eyes to shut out the

1. Cylindrical blocks of wax with a wick, burned for light or fragrance.
2. Units measuring light intensity (obsolete).

heard it and paused instinctively, listening to it for a moment. Sally was holding the candles by the opposite door, which led to the bedrooms upstairs, and the Comtesse was in the act of

1. Not flexible; stiff and unyielding.
2. Strict or severe in rules or discipline.

fork, whilst the Comtesse, encased in the plate-armour of her aristocratic prejudices, sat, rigid and unbending, in her straight-backed chair. As for Lord Antony, he looked extremely

1. To construct or build something upright (e.g., a building).
2. Rigid or upright in position (e.g., posture or body part).

Blakeney and the Comtesse de Tournay had remained seemingly unmoved. The latter, rigid, erect and defiant, with one hand still upon her daughter’s arm, seemed the very personification of

1. Weak or lacking strength (physical or mental).
2. Faint or lacking intensity (e.g., light, sound).

Your servant, Sir Percy!”—was heard in one long, continued chorus, with alternate more feeble tones of—“Remember the poor blind man! of your charity, lady and gentleman!” Then suddenly a

1. Delicately small and pretty.
2. Fastidious or fussy, especially about food.

Their ancestors had oppressed the people, had crushed them under the scarlet heels of their dainty buckled shoes, and now the people had become the rulers of France and crushed their former

1. Lacking sense or meaning; silly or stupid.
2. Empty or void of substance; pointless.

noted the curious look of intense longing, of deep and hopeless passion, with which the inane and flippant Sir Percy followed the retreating figure of his brilliant wife.

1. Placed or inserted between things.
2. Intervened or interrupted in a conversation or situation.

the aristocrats, just like Mr. ’Empseed over ’ere!” “Pardon me, Mr. Jellyband,” again interposed Mr. Hempseed feebly, “I dunno as I ever did—” Mr. Jellyband had appealed to the company in

1. A piece of land planted with fruit trees.
2. A garden or grove where trees are cultivated for food production.

VII The Secret Orchard Once outside the noisy coffee-room, alone in the dimly-lighted passage, Marguerite Blakeney

1. No (archaic or formal negative response).
2. A negative vote or voter.

Bibot exceedingly; he laughed until his sides ached, and the tears streamed down his cheeks. “Nay, nay!” he said at last, “those aristos weren’t in the cart; the driver was not the Scarlet

1. A delicate fabric made of yarn or thread in an open weblike pattern.
2. A cord or string used to fasten shoes or clothing.

The gentle sea-breeze blew Marguerite’s hair about her face, and sent the ends of her soft lace fichu waving round her, like a white and supple snake. She tried to pierce the distance far away,

1. A small triangular shawl or scarf worn by women, typically draped over the shoulders.
2. A decorative piece of fabric, often lace, worn around the neck or shoulders.

gentle sea-breeze blew Marguerite’s hair about her face, and sent the ends of her soft lace fichu waving round her, like a white and supple snake. She tried to pierce the distance far away,

1. The reflexive form of "you," referring to the person being addressed.
2. Used to emphasize the subject "you."

friends. That gentleman over there is as true and loyal a subject of King George as you are yourself, my lord saving your presence. He is but lately arrived in Dover, and is settling down in

1. Past tense of "cling" – held tightly or stuck firmly to something.
2. Remained emotionally attached or dependent on someone or something.

and eagerly, wishing to infuse into her young friend some of that buoyant hope which still clung to her heart. But he shook his head sadly. “Silent again, Sir Andrew?” she said with some

1. Deprived of or lacking something, especially a non-material asset.
2. Suffering the loss of a loved one; bereaved.

face to face with these three refugees driven from their country, flying for their lives, bereft of all which centuries of luxury had given them, there stood a fair scion of those same

1. A nobleman ranking above a count and below a duke.
2. The title given to certain high-ranking officials in some European countries.

“It certainly seems incredible,” said Sir Andrew. “You say that she actually denounced the Marquis de St. Cyr? Why should she have done such a thing? Surely there must be some mistake—” “No

1. Replied sharply or wittily in response to a remark.
2. Turned an argument or accusation back against the originator.

say: ‘Let ’im ’oo stands take ’eed lest ’e fall.’ ” “But then hark’ee Mr. ’Empseed,” retorted Jellyband, still holding his sides with laughter, “the Scriptures didn’t know me. Why, I wouldn’t

1. A sweet, soft food made from fruit juice and sugar, often set with gelatin.
2. A semi-solid substance with a consistency similar to gelatin.

fish, we must have a bowl on that!” and he tapped vigorously on the table near him. “Hey! Jelly! Quick, man! Here, Jelly!” Harmony was once more restored. Mr. Jellyband, with a mighty effort,

1. Partial or total darkness; dimness.
2. A state of melancholy or depression.

on a narrow semicircle in front of the hearth. The rest of the room lay buried in complete gloom; Sir Andrew had taken a pocketbook from his pocket, and drawn therefrom a paper, which he

1. Serious and immediate danger.
2. Exposure to risk of harm or loss.

free England—I think of him, flying for his life, hunted like a poor beast … in such peril … Ah! I should not have left him … I should not have left him! …” The poor woman had

1. A French title of respect for a high-ranking clergyman, especially a bishop.
2. A term of honor used to address or refer to a nobleman or dignitary.

as our guest—a private gentleman from France. As such you are welcome, Monsieur.” “Monseigneur,” rejoined Chauvelin, bowing once again. “Madame,” he added, bowing ceremoniously before

1. Kind, courteous, and pleasant in manner.
2. Elegant and tasteful in appearance or style.

as the two ladies curtsied ceremoniously to one another. “His Royal Highness is ever gracious, Madame,” said Marguerite, demurely, and with a wealth of mischief in her twinkling blue eyes,

1. A short name for motorcycle.
2. A French word meaning "word" or "remark."

Antony Dewhurst were here, evidently expecting to meet their chief—and perhaps to get a fresh mot d’ordre from him. Marguerite looked round at everyone, at the aristocratic high-typed Norman

1. A woman's private bedroom or dressing room.
2. A small, elegant room for relaxation or intimate conversations.

for another victim … Armand! … For one moment there was dead silence in the little boudoir. Beyond, from the brilliant ballroom, the sweet notes of the gavotte, the frou-frou of rich

1. A decorative branched holder for multiple candles or lights.
2. An ornamental fixture with several arms or branches.

There was not much damage done; one or two of the candles had blown out as the candelabra fell; others had merely sent some grease upon the valuable carpet; one had ignited the paper

1. Burned or charred by fire or heat.
2. Dried or withered from extreme heat.

XIII Either—Or? The few words which Marguerite Blakeney had managed to read on the half-scorched piece of paper, seemed literally to be the words of Fate. “Start myself tomorrow. …” This she

1. The number following ten (11).
2. A sports team with eleven players (e.g., soccer).

telling him that all that would be his, if the horse and cart were ready for him by eleven o’clock.” “And, of course, the horse and cart were ready?” “Well! they were ready for him in a

1. A slow, graceful dance in triple time, popular in the 17th and 18th centuries.
2. The music composed for this dance, often part of a suite or symphony.

doubt may have crossed his mind at the moment, she had, by the time the last bars of the minuet had been played, succeeded in completely dispelling it; he never realised in what a fever of

1. Not aware of or expecting something, especially danger or harm.
2. Innocent or naive, lacking suspicion.

snakelike figure in the gloom had jumped up and hurled itself from behind upon the unsuspecting Sir Andrew, felling him to the ground. All this occurred within the short space of two or three

1. Sweet or gentle (French origin).
2. Soft or mild in texture or flavor.

But remember, I am not an English woman, and I do not look upon the exchanging of billet doux as a crime, and I vow I’ll not tell my little Suzanne. But now, tell me, shall I welcome you at

1. A solemn promise or pledge, often made to a deity or another person.
2. A formal commitment to a religious or marital state.

down in business in these parts.” “In business? Faith, then, it must be as an undertaker, for I vow I never beheld a more rueful countenance.” “Nay, my lord, I believe that the gentleman is a

1. A medium-paced French dance in duple time, popular in the 17th and 18th centuries.
2. The music composed for this dance, often part of a suite.

silence in the little boudoir. Beyond, from the brilliant ballroom, the sweet notes of the gavotte, the frou-frou of rich dresses, the talk and laughter of a large and merry crowd, came as a

1. Skillful in deception or trickery.
2. Clever or crafty in achieving goals.

under his command, well furnished with money, armed with boundless daring, and acute cunning, had succeeded in rescuing hundreds of aristocrats from France. Nine-tenths of the émigrés, who

1. Located on a lower floor of a building.
2. Toward or on a lower floor.

betrayed to the poor, anxious woman whether she need fear or whether she dared to hope. Downstairs on the landing she was soon surrounded. Lady Blakeney never stepped from any house into her

1. Brave, heroic, or chivalrous (adjective).
2. A man who is attentive and polite to women (noun).

the stairs, bowing elaborately before her, “my coach is outside; may I claim your arm?” As gallant as ever, he offered her his arm and led her downstairs. The crowd was very great, some of the

1. A large, densely packed crowd of people or animals.
2. To gather or fill a place in large numbers.

portions of the house, whilst the fashionable women, the gaily-dressed and brilliant throng, spoke to the eye of those who cared but little for this “latest importation from Germany.”

1. Made an emotional or earnest appeal.
2. Entered a formal statement of guilt or innocence in court.

“Suzanne, come with me at once—I wish it,” said the Comtesse, peremptorily. “Oh! Mama!” pleaded Suzanne. “My lady … er … h’m! … my lady! …” came in feeble accents from Jellyband, who

1. Nocturnal flying insects related to butterflies, often with feathery antennae.
2. Insects that can damage fabrics, stored food, or crops.

may not snap,” he repeated, with his enigmatic smile. And stepping aside, he allowed the moths to flutter more closely round the candle, and the brilliant throng of the jeunesse dorée, eagerly

1. A row of small columns topped by a rail, forming a decorative barrier or railing.
2. A low wall or barrier along the edge of a balcony, staircase, or terrace.

his love he kissed one by one the places where her small foot had trodden, and the stone balustrade there, where her tiny hand had rested last.

1. Stubbornness or refusal to change one's opinion or course of action.
2. Persistent determination despite reasoning or persuasion.

moved; his massive figure looked the very personification of unbending pride, of fierce obstinacy. Hot tears again surged to her eyes, as she would not let him see them, she turned quickly

1. A female domestic servant who cleans and maintains a household.
2. A young unmarried woman (archaic or poetic).

XVII Farewell When Marguerite reached her room, she found her maid terribly anxious about her. “Your ladyship will be so tired,” said the poor woman, whose own eyes

1. Fabric panels hung to cover windows for privacy or decoration.
2. Theatrical drapes that open or close a stage.

night, my lady.” “Good night, Louise.” When the maid was gone, Marguerite drew aside the curtains and threw open the windows. The garden and the river beyond were flooded with rosy light. Far

1. Lines or beams of light radiating from a source.
2. Marine fish with flat bodies and wing-like fins.

was as still as ever; the footsteps had retreated. Through her wide-open window the brilliant rays of the morning sun were flooding her room with light. She looked up at the clock; it was

1. Passionate or intensely enthusiastic.
2. Burning or glowing with heat.

of beautiful Lady Blakeney—though known to hold moderate and conciliatory views—was an ardent republican; his feud with the ancient family of St. Cyr—the rights and wrongs of which no

1. A Muslim sovereign or ruler, especially of the former Ottoman Empire.
2. A powerful or influential person in a particular field.

hid him from view; his confidential groom had some difficulty in keeping pace with him, for Sultan flew along in response to his master’s excited mood. Marguerite, with a sigh that was almost a

1. Past tense of partake; took part in or shared something.
2. Participated in an activity or event.

by her long sleep. Louise had brought her some fresh milk and a dish of fruit, and she partook of this frugal breakfast with hearty appetite. Thoughts crowded thick and fast in her mind as she

1. A person who cares for horses or maintains their appearance.
2. A man about to be married or recently married.

she waved him a final “Adieu.” A bend in the road soon hid him from view; his confidential groom had some difficulty in keeping pace with him, for Sultan flew along in response to his master’s

1. A person employed to park cars, typically at a hotel or restaurant.
2. A manservant who takes care of personal needs, like clothing or luggage.

apply to her, and Frank would, of course, not dare to oppose her. Still, she hoped that the valet would be busy in one of the other rooms, that she might have that one quick peep in secret, and

1. Disregard for something considered unworthy or beneath notice.
2. A feeling of scorn or disdain towards someone or something.

at least—and saw they were empty, and let the cart go through.” A murmur of wrath and contempt went round the group of ill-clad wretches, who crowded round Citoyen Bibot. “Half an hour later,”

1. A sacred or holy place.
2. A private room or retreat.

the others. A sudden burning, childish curiosity seized her to have a peep at Sir Percy’s sanctum. This restriction, of course, did not apply to her, and Frank would, of course, not dare to

1. A quick or furtive look.
2. A faint, high-pitched sound, like a small bird's cry.

that the valet would be busy in one of the other rooms, that she might have that one quick peep in secret, and unmolested. Gently, on tiptoe, she crossed the landing and, like Blue Beard’s

1. Slow and clumsy due to great weight or size.
2. Dull or laborious in manner or style.

the Vicomte, somewhat abashed at the way his warlike attitude had been taken by the ponderous-looking Englishman. “I protest ’tis marvellous!” continued Sir Percy, imperturbably, “demmed

1. Used to emphasize a statement or response.
2. Truly or certainly (often expressing agreement).

matter. Portly in build, jovial in countenance and somewhat bald of pate, Mr. Jellyband was indeed a typical rural John Bull of those days—the days when our prejudiced insularity was at its

1. A French nobleman ranking above a vicomte and below a marquis.
2. A type of French cheese made from unpasteurized cow's milk.

Vicomte safely in England now, surely you must feel reasurred as to the fate of Monsieur le Comte.” “Ah, Monsieur,” replied the Comtesse, with a heavy sigh, “I trust in God—I can but pray—and

1. A companion or associate, especially in shared activities or struggles.
2. A fellow member of a socialist or communist party.

felt his position to be a very awkward one. The oath he had taken before his leader and comrade was one of obedience and secrecy; and yet the beautiful woman, who was asking him to trust her,

1. A major port town in southeastern England, known for its white cliffs.
2. The capital city of the U.S. state of Delaware.

II Dover: The Fisherman’s Rest In the kitchen Sally was extremely busy—saucepans and frying-pans were

1. A woman in a position of authority or control.
2. A woman having an extramarital sexual relationship with a married man.

accept without murmur or question, as a dumb and submissive slave, every action of my mistress. My heart overflowing with love and passion, I asked for no explanation—I waited for one, not

1. A type of sailing vessel with two or more masts, typically fore-and-aft rigged.
2. A large beer glass, usually holding around 15–20 ounces (Australia, New Zealand).

to the porch and looked out to sea. Silhouetted against the ever-changing sky, a graceful schooner, with white sails set, was gently dancing in the breeze. The Daydream it was, Sir Percy

1. For fear that (conjunction)
2. Used to express concern or caution

Mr. Hempseed, sententiously, “you know what the Scriptures say: ‘Let ’im ’oo stands take ’eed lest ’e fall.’ ” “But then hark’ee Mr. ’Empseed,” retorted Jellyband, still holding his sides with

1. A color between black and white; gray (in Spanish and French).
2. A type of medieval armor covering the lower leg (historical term).

It was too dark then for Marguerite to notice the outside aspect of this house. The Chat Gris, as Sir Andrew had called it, was evidently a small wayside inn on the outskirts of Calais, and

1. Spoke quietly or indistinctly, often in a grumbling or complaining tone.
2. Expressed something in a low or suppressed voice.

to be all night with that there beer?” “I do think father might get the beer for them,” muttered Sally, as Jemima, stolidly and without further comment, took a couple of foam-crowned jugs from

1. Bad-tempered or unfriendly in manner.
2. Sullenly rude or gruff.

of his blue blouse. “He went to get a horse and cart,” said Brogard, laconically, as with a surly gesture, he shook off from his arm that pretty hand which princes had been proud to kiss. “At

1. The space or room at the top of a house, under the roof, often used for storage.
2. Relating to Attica or Athens, especially in ancient times.

oaths and shuffling footsteps could be heard. He also ran up the rickety steps that led to the attic, to assure himself that there were no spies of Chauvelin’s about the place. “Are we alone,

1. People who are fleeing from danger, persecution, or the law.
2. Individuals escaping custody or avoiding arrest.

his own life, but that of Suzanne’s father, the old Comte de Tournay, and of those other fugitives who were waiting for him and trusting in him. There was also Armand, who had gone to meet de

1. Dirty, neglected, and in poor condition.
2. Morally degraded or sordid.

oil-lamp, which hung from the rickety rafters of the ceiling. It all looked so horribly squalid, so dirty and uninviting, that Marguerite hardly dared to cross the threshold. Sir Andrew,

1. A long, close-fitting robe worn by Roman Catholic priests and some other clergy members.
2. A cassock, typically black, as part of clerical attire.

more withering contempt than he had bestowed upon his former guests, and muttered, “Sacrrrée soutane!” Marguerite’s heart seemed all at once to stop beating; her eyes, large and dilated, had

1. Having a brim (the projecting edge of a hat).
2. Filled to the top; overflowing.

point, had taken a quick step forward towards Brogard. He was dressed in the soutane, broad-brimmed hat and buckled shoes habitual to the French curé, but as he stood opposite the innkeeper, he

1. Showing a lack of respect; rude or bold.
2. Shamelessly forward or insolent.

which we in England call the Scarlet Pimpernel. Within a few hours of the receipt of this impudent notice, the citoyens of the Committee of Public Safety would hear that so many royalists and

1. A small, simple shelter or dwelling, often made of wood or other natural materials.
2. A temporary or basic structure used for camping or storage.

at a place evidently known to the league, and vaguely alluded to as the “Père Blanchard’s hut.” Armand, whose connection with the Scarlet Pimpernel and disavowal of the brutal policy of the

1. To annoy or irritate someone with persistent complaints or demands.
2. A horse, especially an old or worn-out one.

you drive me in it?” “As far as the Père Blanchard’s hut, your Honour, and further than Reuben’s nag took your friend. I am sure that, not two leagues from here, we shall come across that wily

1. Woody plants smaller than trees, with multiple stems.
2. Low-growing perennial plants used in landscaping.

to the Jew, then she retired quickly to the edge of the road, and cowered behind some low shrubs, whilst Desgas and his men came up. All fell in noiselessly behind the cart, and slowly they all

1. A feeling of hopelessness or deep sadness.
2. The complete loss or absence of hope.

and constantly … But what do you want me to do, Chauvelin?” she said, with a world of despair in her tear-choked voice. “In my present position, it is well-nigh impossible!” “Nay, citoyenne,”

1. Looked steadily and intently, often with admiration or curiosity.
2. Stared fixedly for a long time, sometimes absentmindedly.

I do if … if … if …” Her voice was choked in sobs, her eyes, tender, blue and loving, gazed appealingly at the young man, who in his turn looked steadfastly into hers. “You would in any

1. A fence or boundary formed by closely growing bushes or shrubs.
2. A means of protection or defense against financial loss.

Fortunately—as is usual in this part of France—the footpath was bordered by a low rough hedge, beyond which was a dry ditch, filled with coarse grass. In this Marguerite managed to find

1. A large, rounded rock or stone.
2. A city in Colorado, USA, known for its outdoor activities and the University of Colorado.

who were also calmly waiting for the Scarlet Pimpernel, while death lurked behind every boulder of the cliffs. For the moment she could do nothing but follow the soldiers and Chauvelin. She

1. To speak very softly using one's breath without vocal cords.
2. A quiet or secretive conversation.

as himself. “At what time do you expect Sir Percy and Lady Blakeney?” he contrived to whisper unobserved, to mine host. “Any moment, my lord,” whispered Jellyband in reply. Even as he spoke,

1. A small square of cloth used for wiping the nose or face.
2. A decorative piece of fabric carried as an accessory.

purses. “Oh, lud!” said Marguerite, as she advanced into the room, holding her handkerchief to her dainty nose, “what a dreadful hole! Are you sure this is the place?” “Aye! ’tis the place,

1. Spoken very softly using one's breath without vocal cords.
2. Communicated in a quiet, secretive, or confidential manner.

turned in search of the Comtesse, who sat at the further end of the room. “Lud love me!” whispered his Royal Highness to Marguerite, as soon as he had caught sight of the rigid figure of the old

1. A soft, indistinct sound made by a person or group, often speaking quietly or indistinctly.
2. A low, continuous background noise, like rustling leaves or flowing water.

his impassiveness seemed to leave him, his rigidity to relax; “that I should accept without murmur or question, as a dumb and submissive slave, every action of my mistress. My heart overflowing

1. Lacking strength or clarity; barely perceptible.
2. A sudden loss of consciousness.

Terror, culminating in the September massacres, had only come across the Channel to her as a faint echo. Robespierre, Danton, Marat, she had not known in their new guise of bloody judiciaries,