all the village had
assembled outside Pierre's door. Men, women and children were there, and
I confess their hearty and genuine welcome touched me very closely. I
had always been a favourite with them, and the death of my father, of
whose prowess at D'Angely they had heard, increased their love.

"Ho, ho!" exclaimed one burly fellow, "now that our young lord has come
back Monsieur Cordel can take himself off, or he will get a taste of my
cudgel!"

"No, no, my friend!" I cried hastily, for his companions had begun to
cheer, "you must not interfere with Monsieur Cordel, or you will get
into trouble. I have returned to Le Blanc by the king's instructions,
but his majesty has not yet signed the necessary papers permitting me to
take possession of my property. That will come in time, but meanwhile we
must be patient and give no cause of offence."

"We will do whatever you tell us, monsieur," they answered.

From the first streak of dawn Urie, the blacksmith and worker in iron,
had with the assistance of Jacques been busily fashioning the new keys.
It was a troublesome business, and evening was again approaching when I
succeeded in entering my old home.

Rather to my surprise, I discovered that the royal troops had committed
little damage, and in a few days, through the willing labours of the
villagers, everything was restored to its former condition. Several of
my father's old servants were eager to return, but, knowing how
uncertain the future was, I decided to manage with as few as possible.

"I fear, monsieur," said Jacques one evening, about a week after our
return, "that we must expect trouble."

"How so?" I asked.

"Cordel has been in the village, and has gone off in a towering passion.
It seems he has only just learned of your arrival, and has let fall
several threats to old Pierre."

"Pshaw!" I exclaimed, "what harm can the fellow do us?"

"I do not know, monsieur; but he is a false knave and full of cunning.
He will play you a nasty trick if he can find a way!"

"We will wait till that time comes," I replied cheerfully, thinking
Jacques had magnified the danger.

Cordel did not tax my patience long. The very next afternoon an officer
with an escort of twenty troopers, clattering up to the drawbridge,
demanded admittance in the king's name. He was accompanied by the
lawyer, and, knowing it would be folly to offer resistance, I ordered
the bridge to be lowered.

"Edmond Le Blanc?" said the officer brus