"And you?" I asked.

"I am waiting for orders, I may march with the troops, or remain here;
it depends on our leaders."

My father's information put a greyer colour on the farewell; Jeanne and
my mother embraced me very tenderly, and neither could altogether keep
back the tell-tale tears. Still, they were very brave, and when at last
I rode off, they stood at the window waving their handkerchiefs and
smiling, though I suspect the smiles quickly faded after I disappeared
from sight.

I found the hotel in a state of commotion, and Felix, who met me in the
lobby, exclaimed excitedly: "It has begun, Edmond; we march almost
immediately. I am just going to say good-bye to your sister. Will you be
away from us long?"

"I think not. I am carrying a despatch to the commandants at Saint Jean
d'Angely and Cognac. Afterwards I shall rejoin you."

"Till we meet again then," said he, hurriedly, anxious to make the most
of the short time still at his disposal.

Several of our leaders besides De Guerchy were with the Admiral, and
from time to time one of them came out, mounted his horse, and galloped
off. Presently the door opened, and De Guerchy called me inside, where
the Admiral handed me two packets.

"One for the commandant at Saint Jean d'Angely," he said, "and one for
him at Cognac. From Cognac you will proceed to Angouleme, unless you
meet with us on the way. I need not warn you to be prudent and vigilant,
nor remind you that these despatches must not fall into the hands of an
enemy. Start at once; you should reach Saint Jean d'Angely before
norning."

I took the packets, placed them securely inside my doublet, and, after a
last word of caution from De Guerchy, left the room. The news of the
coming movement had spread throughout the town and the streets were
crowded. The excitement was intense, and I witnessed many sad scenes;
for every one understood that of the thousands who marched from Rochelle
comparatively few would return.

Heavy carts, and big, clumsy guns--chiefly useful for making a
noise--rumbled along; dashing cavaliers with flaunting favours bestrode
their horses proudly; sturdy foot-soldiers carrying murderous pike or
deadly arquebus tramped steadily onward, while weeping children and
silent, white-faced women stood bowed with grief.

Even beyond the gates I found crowds of people who had come thus far,
loth to say the last farewell to their dear ones; but after a while I
left the throng behind, and