nformed of most things
that take place, acquainted me with the fact that Monsieur de Villar
entirely remitted the usual fines on taking possession, and reduced the
annual payment of his tenants by one half until times should mend."

"A noble example!" the queen said warmly. "I would that we could afford
to do the same through all the royal domains. It is a pleasure to us to
know that one at least of our fiefs has been so worthily bestowed. Well,
sir, I shall see you at the court this evening."

Hector bowed and withdrew. His first step was to go to the clothing
establishment most frequented by men of good family. "I have to attend
at the court this evening. I have just returned from the army, and have
but the clothes that I stand up in. Have you any garments that will fit
me suitable for such an occasion?"

"Of shoulder cloaks I have great store in silks, satins, and velvets of
all shades and colours. There is no difficulty about doublets, for of
these I always keep a large stock in hand; and although you are a bigger
man than the majority of my customers, I think that I can suit you.
Tight pantaloons are chiefly worn by those who affect the latest
fashion, but it would be impossible for me to make these at such short
notice. As you are a military man this matters little, for these chiefly
affect loose breeches trimmed at the bottom with rich lace, stockings
of silk, and shoes with rosettes. Such breeches I could promise you in
three hours, for they require but little making. The stockings of all
shades I have in stock, also shoes. These would need but rosettes of the
colour to suit the dress, to be added to them."

"I put myself in your hands," Hector said. "I wish for a handsome dress,
and yet one which shall in no way be foppish, but shall be suitable to
my station. I am Baron de la Villar, colonel of the Poitou regiment of
infantry."

"Do you incline to silk, velvet, or satin? I should say a velvet cloak
and satin tunic and breeches would suit you best with your fair hair. I
should choose for the cloak a crimson or violet, and for the doublet and
breeches a yellow. If you would prefer a blue cloak I should say a white
satin doublet and breeches would become you."

Hector shook his head. "No, I should prefer the first mixture. I care
not whether the cloak is crimson or violet."

"I think violet, monsieur, and rosettes of the same colour on your
shoes. It were best, I think, that the stockings should match the