the commandant at Rochelle."

When Felix and I went to the house, we were received by the countess,
who was not at all pleased by the news of Jeanne's approaching
departure. "What new conspiracy is this," she asked, "that you need a
young girl for an ally? Have you not men enough to do your work?"

"Ah," laughed Felix playfully, "you wish to discover our secrets. It is
quite useless, my lady; we are proof against all your wiles; but on her
return, Mademoiselle Jeanne shall tell you herself; you won't be able to
do any mischief then!"

"You are a saucy boy!" exclaimed the countess, pinching his ear. "And
pray, which of you is to be Jeanne's escort?"

"I am sending my servant," I answered. "He is very trustworthy, and will
guard her with his own life."

"Do you intend your sister to walk to Rochelle?" she asked, the humorous
twinkle coming back to her eyes.

"I am going to procure a carriage."

"You will do nothing of the kind!" she declared emphatically. "I am not
supposed to be acquainted with your stupid plots, and your sister shall
go to Rochelle in my carriage, drawn by my horses, and driven by my
coachman. The poor beasts will probably die of the plague in that gloomy
hole, but they must take their chance. Now, do not speak! I am not to be
lectured by two giddy boys. And do not kiss me, Felix! What I am doing
is for Jeanne. Perhaps when they cut off my head for joining in your
horrid conspiracy you will be sorry. Now, have the horses put into the
carriage, while I see Jeanne."

"She is a generous soul!" exclaimed Felix, as we left the room. "She has
many strange whims, but no one could be more loyal to a friend, and she
has grown to love Jeanne very dearly."

"She is exceedingly kind," I said, "and the more so since we have no
claims on her generosity."

By the time Jacques arrived everything was ready, and we had only to bid
my sister good-bye. She bore up bravely, but the parting was a painful
one, for in our hearts both Felix and I had an uneasy feeling that we
were saying farewell to her for ever. Of this, fortunately, she had no
suspicion, and she promised the countess to return directly the business
with the commandant was finished.

"Remember," I whispered to Jacques, as the coachman gathered up the
reins, "there must be no delay. Reach Rochelle as quickly as possible,
and keep your mistress there until I send to you. The commandant, who
will understand the real purpose of the journey, will help