the time of Charlemagne, in whom every cavalier ought to seek his
model. Unfortunately, we do not live in the times of the great
emperor, we live in the times of the cardinal; and three days
hence, however well the secret might be guarded, it would be
known, I say, that we were to fight, and our combat would be
prevented. I think these fellows will never come."

"If you are in haste, monsieur," said d'Artagnan, with the same
simplicity with which a moment before he had proposed to him to
put off the duel for three days, "and if it be your will to
dispatch me at once, do not inconvenience yourself, I pray you."

"There is another word which pleases me," cried Athos, with a
gracious nod to d'Artagnan. "That did not come from a man
without a heart. Monsieur, I love men of your kidney; and I
foresee plainly that if we don't kill each other, I shall
hereafter have much pleasure in your conversation. We will wait
for these gentlemen, so please you; I have plenty of time, and it
will be more correct. Ah, here is one of them, I believe."

In fact, at the end of the Rue Vaugirard the gigantic Porthos
appeared.

"What!" cried d'Artagnan, "is your first witness Monsieur
Porthos?"

"Yes, that disturbs you?"

"By no means."