the death of Queen Joan, my sister has lived in Paris with the
Countess Guichy. Last night this strange friend of mine advised me with
the utmost earnestness to have her conveyed to Rochelle. He gave me no
reason, but from his manner I am sure he fears something terrible is
about to happen. 'Invent what excuse you like,' said he, 'but to-morrow
morning send Jacques'--that is my servant--'to Rochelle in charge of
your sister, and let him make no delay on the road.' There must be some
grave reason for his advice, my lord."

"You have no doubt of this man's friendship?"

"Not a shadow of doubt; he has proved it to the hilt."

"Then your sister must leave Paris promptly, and she shall carry a
letter from me to the commandant. That will furnish an excuse for her
hurried departure. I will write it immediately."

"But, my lord," I said hesitatingly, for it ever required some courage
to hint that he should take measures for his personal safety, "it is of
the possible peril to yourself I am thinking."

"I do not believe there is any danger," he replied; "but I am in the
hands of God, Le Blanc. If He, in His wisdom, and for His own good
purpose, wills that I should die at my post, I am content. Now, Des
Pruneaux shall write the letter, and after breakfast you shall take it
to your sister."

I went out, and writing a note to Jeanne, bidding her get ready for an
early start, sent it off by Jacques.

"I wonder," said Felix, "if your friend's warning has anything to do
with the king's fresh move. Last night twelve hundred of the guards
marched into Paris, and are quartered near the Louvre."

"They may be wanted to overawe Guise and Anjou," I suggested. "If so, it
was a wise step to take."

"Yes, if so!" he agreed, but the tone of his voice did not imply much
confidence in my suggestion.

As soon as Jacques returned, I told him to prepare for a journey to
Rochelle, dwelling strongly upon the necessity for the greatest
expedition.

"There is some danger threatening you," exclaimed the trusty fellow.

"No more than there was yesterday, Jacques; but I am uneasy about my
sister, and would rather she were behind the walls of La Rochelle."

"I do not like leaving you, monsieur."

"You must, Jacques; there is no one else to whom I would care to entrust
my sister. But not a word to her of the real reason! She must imagine
she is doing us a service or she will not stir; so we are sending her
with a letter from the Admiral to