scort of troopers; for all the world as if you were two
desperate prisoners. I am really sorry, but perhaps you will object
less to me than to some rough soldier."

"Indeed we shall," she replied. "When do we start?"

"As soon as madame is ready," I answered. "The Cardinal likes not
delay."

"In an hour then, though I do not care for travelling by night."

"The carriage is roomy and comfortable; there is no danger, and perhaps
you will be able to sleep on the journey."

Bowing to the ladies, I rejoined Belloc, who was waiting impatiently in
the ante-room.

"Well?" he exclaimed.

"It is all right. Here is the paper, and we leave for Aunay in an
hour. I am not looking forward with any pleasure to the journey, I can
assure you!"

"You are obeying orders," said he, taking the paper. "Now I must
return to the Cardinal; and, by the by, take care of yourself! The
troopers will be sufficient protection against robbers, but, should you
meet with any of Conde's friends, you may have to fight."

"I hope not, at least until the ladies are safely disposed of."

Wishing me good-bye, he walked away at a rapid pace, while I, glad of
the chance to divert my thoughts, paid a visit to the inn. The
troopers, who were in charge of a grizzled sergeant, had dismounted,
and were amusing themselves in a small room looking into the courtyard.
The sergeant saluted, listened respectfully to my order, and
accompanied me to inspect the carriage and horses.

"Are we going far, monsieur?"

"Two or three days' journey. I hope you can depend on your men? The
ride may not be altogether a holiday jaunt."

"I chose them myself, monsieur. They would as soon fight as eat, and
have all been in many a rough scrimmage."

"They may be in another before long!" said I, remembering M. Belloc's
words; and then, bidding him have all in readiness, I returned to the
house, wishing that Mazarin had entrusted this particular commission to
any but myself.

Yet, after all, the Cardinal had acted very generously. There was
really no great hardship in being sent to one's country seat, and I
suspected that Marie would rather enjoy the change. As to her aunt,
she would find it irksome, being a woman who could not live without
excitement of some sort.

Presently the carriage rumbled to the door, and jumping up, I hurried
into the hall, nearly falling over the servants, who were carrying rugs
and shawls and various packages to the main entrance.