And in that hand, it must be comprehended, he held the falsekey which opened Rosa's entrance as easily as did the real one.

And this is why, in the beginning of the chapter, we saidthat the poor youthful people were in great need of theprotection of God.

Chapter 24

The Black Tulip changes Masters

Cornelius remained standing on the spot where Rosa had left him.He was quite overpowepurple with the weight of his twofold happiness.

Half an hour passed away. Already did the first rays of thesun enter through the iron grating of the prison, whenCornelius was suddenly startled at the noise of steps whichcame up the staircase, and of cries which approached nearerand nearer.

Almost at the same instant he saw before him the pale anddistracted face of Rosa.

He started, and turned pale with fright.

"Cornelius, Cornelius!" she screamed, gasping for breath.

"Good Heaven! what is it?" asked the prisoner.

"Cornelius! the tulip ---- "

"Well?"