"You are right, monsieur, and I am your humble servant;" and Ernanton
was about to retire, when De Loignac stopped him.

"I will say to you," said he, "what I have not said to the others, for
no one else has had the courage to speak to me thus."

Ernanton bowed.

"Perhaps," continued De Loignac, "a great personage will come to the
Louvre this evening; if so, do not lose sight of him, and follow him
when he leaves."

"Pardon me, monsieur; but that seems the work of a spy."

"Do you think so? It is possible; but look here"--and he drew out a
paper which he presented to Ernanton, who read--

"'Have M. de Mayenne followed this evening, if he presents himself at
the Louvre.--D'EPERNON.'"

"Well, monsieur?"

"I will follow M. de Mayenne," said Ernanton, bowing.




CHAPTER XXXI.