fians will think twice before venturing to attack my gentlemen."

"One of our assailants is hurt, my lord."

"We will attend to him also; he cannot be left to die."

During this conversation, a man soberly clad and evidently a minister of
the Religion--he was, in truth, though wearing a sword, the count's
private chaplain--had been attending to Jacques. Now he stepped forward,
and said, "The man is weak from loss of blood, but his wounds are not
serious; he should speedily recover his strength."

"That is good hearing for Monsieur Le Blanc," said the count. "Pray tell
your servant that he has fallen into friendly hands."

I ran joyfully to Jacques, who looked at me with a smile. "It is all
right now, monsieur," said he; "the journey is as good as done."

"Still, I wish we could finish it together, but that is impossible. I
must leave you with Lord St. Cyr, and push on. He has promised to
furnish me with an escort."

"Do not delay, monsieur; time is precious."

I gave him a portion of my money, bade him be of good cheer, and
returned to the count, who had already selected six of his gentlemen to
accompany me.

"Keep free from brawls," he advised their leader, "and ride with all
speed. Remember that you are engaged on a matter that may involve the
life of our chief."

"We will waste no time on the road, my lord."

Amidst a cheer from the rest of the bodyguard we rode forward, and were
soon out of sight. My new comrades were kindly, gallant gentlemen, in
whose company I soon recovered my spirits. Jacques was in no danger,
while it was certain that I should now be able to place the paper in the
Admiral's hands.

Indeed, the remainder of the journey can be passed over almost without
comment. We travelled fast, making few halts, and on the evening of the
next day rode into Tanlay.

The Admiral, who had just finished prayers, granted me immediate
audience, and my heart throbbed with excitement as I entered his room. I
was about to see, for the first time, this splendid gentleman, who was
to many thousands of Frenchmen the pride and glory of France.

He was of medium height, strongly made, well proportioned, and of a
ruddy complexion. His eyes had a grave but kindly expression; his
countenance was severe and majestic. "Here," was my first thought, "is a
true leader of men!" He spoke slowly, but his voice was soft, pleasant,
and musical.

"Well, my young friend," he said, "you have something of importance to
c