CHAPTER 17

In which Aramis is sought and only Bazin is found



Two hours had scarcely elapsed since the departure of the
master of the house, who, in Blaisois's sight, had taken the
road to Paris, when a horseman, mounted on a good pied
horse, stopped before the gate, and with a sonorous "hola!"
called the stable-boys who, with the gardeners, had formed a
circle round Blaisois, the historian-in-ordinary to the
household of the chateau. This "hola," doubtless well known
to Master Blaisois, made him turn his head and exclaim --
"Monsieur d'Artagnan! run quickly, you chaps, and open the
gate."

A swarm of eight brisk lads flew to the gate, which was
opened as if it had been made of feathers; and every one
loaded him with attentions, for they knew the welcome this
friend was accustomed to receive from their master; and for
such remarks the eye of the valet may always be depended
upon.

"Ah!" said M. d'Artagnan, with an agreeable smile, balancing
himself upon his stirrup to jump to the ground, "where is
that dear count?"

"Ah! how unfortunate you are, monsieur!" said Blaisois: "and
how unfortunate will monsieur le comte our master, think