The officer lowered his voice, and said in an insinuating tone, "Open
quickly, dear companion."

"Ventre de biche! I do not smell the grocery."

"Ah! you will not open?" cried the officer, impatiently. "Break open the
door."

Chicot ran to the window, but saw below two naked swords shining.

"I am caught," said he.

"Ah! ah!" cried the officer, who had heard the noise of the window
opening; "you fear the perilous leap, and you are right. Come, open!"

"Ma foi! no; the door is solid, and I shall get help when you make a
noise." And he began to call for the merchants.

The officer laughed. "Fool!" cried he. "Do you think we have left you
their help? Undeceive yourself; you are alone, so make up your mind to
it. Go on, soldiers."

Chicot heard three blows struck on the door.

"They have three muskets," said he; "and below there are only two
swords, and only fifteen feet to jump; I prefer the swords to the
muskets."

And tying his bag to his belt, he got on the window-sill with his drawn