at the two adversaries, he added with an
indescribable note of tenderness: "Above all, Roland, do not let
yourself be killed; but if it is a possible thing don't kill your
adversary. Everything considered, he is a gallant man, and the day will
come when I shall need such men at my side."

"I shall do my best, general; don't be alarmed." At this moment the
landlord appeared upon the thresh-hold of the door.

"The post-chaise is ready," said he.

The general took his hat and his cane, which he had laid upon the chair.
Roland, on the contrary, followed him bareheaded, that all might see
plainly he did not intend to leave with his friend. Alfred de Barjols,
therefore, offered no opposition to his leaving the room. Besides, it
was easy to see that his adversary was of those who seek rather than
avoid quarrels.

"Just the same," said the general, seating himself in the carriage to
which Roland had escorted him, "my heart is heavy at leaving you thus,
Roland, without a friend to act as your second."

"Good! Don't worry about that, general; seconds are never lacking. There
are and always will be enough men who are curious to see how one man can
kill another."

"Au revoir, Roland. Observe, I do not say farewell, but au revoir!"

"Yes, my dear general," replied the young man, in a voice that revealed
some emotion, "I understand, and I thank you."

"Promise that you will send me word as soon as the affair is over, or
that you will get some one to write if you are disabled."

"Oh, don't worry, general. You will have a letter from me personally
in less than four days," replied Roland, adding, in a tone of profound
bitterness: "Have you not perceived that I am protected by a fatality
which prevents me from dying?"

"Roland!" exclaimed the general in a severe tone, "Again!"

"Nothing, nothing," said the young man, shaking his head and assuming
an expression of careless gayety which must have been habitual with him
before the occurrence of that unknown misfortune which oppressed his
youth with this longing for death.

"Very well. By the way, try to find out one thing."

"What is that, general?"

"How it happens that at a time when we are at war with England an
Englishman stalks about France as freely and as easily as if he were at
home."

"Good; I will find out."

"How?"

"I do not know; but when I promise you to find out I shall do so, though
I have to ask it of himself."

"Reckless fellow! Don't get yourself