at St. Jean d'Angely----"

"D'Angely!" I cried; "Felix, he has been at the siege. Read it, my
friend, my eyes swim, I cannot see the letters, they all run into one
another."--"Your father was the bravest."--"Oh, Felix, Felix, do you
understand? How can I tell them? How can I comfort them? And I must ride
away in the morning and leave them to their grief! Read it to me slowly,
dear friend, while I try to think."




CHAPTER XIII

A Daring Enterprise


After the lapse of many years, I close my eyes, and leaning back in my
chair listen again to my comrade as with tremulous voice he reads the
fatal letter.--"Monsieur, you once did me a priceless service. I have
never forgotten--shall never forget. Believe me, monsieur, it is with
poignant grief I write this brief note. I have been with Monseigneur at
St. Jean d'Angely throughout the siege. Your father was the bravest man
among our enemies. His wonderful skill and courage have gained the
admiration of friend and foe alike. The king spoke of his bravery with
the highest praise: Monseigneur has declared openly that the Sieur Le
Blanc alone stood between him and the capture of the town. He has indeed
proved himself one of the finest soldiers in France; but, alas!
monsieur, the Sieur Le Blanc is no more. He fell not an hour ago at the
head of his men, in a brilliant sortie. Remembering your kindness to me,