smile, and, clapping me lightly on the shoulder, exclaimed: "A word with
you in my room, Monsieur Le Blanc."

Expecting some trifling commission, such as often fell to his gentlemen
of the bodyguard, I followed him into the apartment, and stood waiting
to hear his commands.

"A prudent youth, De Guerchy," he remarked to his companion, "and not
without experience. He it was who brought the timely warning to Tanlay.
His father is the Sieur Le Blanc."

"A gallant soldier!" said De Guerchy with decision.

"And I think the lad will follow in his father's footsteps. I am about
to send him to Saint Jean d'Angely, and to Cognac," adding, with a
laugh, "'tis a far less distance than to Tanlay."

"But the commission is almost as important," said De Guerchy.

"Much less dangerous though," and, turning to me, he added: "Can you
carry a letter to the commandant at Cognac?"

"I will do my best, my lord."

"Then make your preparations; I shall be ready for you at the end of two
hours."

I saluted and returned to the ante-chamber, where Felix, catching sight
of my smiling face, exclaimed: "More good fortune, Edmond? I shall be
jealous of you soon! Why do the Fates select you for their favours?"