He conducted me to an inn, wakened the landlord, and did not leave until
my horse was comfortably stabled, and preparations for a good supper
were in progress. Then he said: "You will be starting early in the
morning. Have a care on your journey to Cognac. Bodies of the enemy have
been prowling around the district for some days."

"I thank you, monsieur. I was unaware they had ventured so far south."

"They are striking, I think, at Angoulême," he said; "I have sent a
courier to Rochelle with the news. Good-night! And don't let the rascals
snap you up."

The supper was an excellent one, the bed delightfully cosy and inviting,
and my last thought was one of regret at having to leave it so soon.
However, I turned out at the landlord's warning, made another hearty
meal--these journeys were keen sharpeners of the appetite--and before
the day was fairly awake had started in cheerful spirits for Cognac.




CHAPTER VIII

The Tragedy of Jarnac


What led to the dismal disaster that overtook us at the very opening of
the campaign I cannot say. Some ascribe it to the rashness of the
Prince, who was certainly a very impetuous leader; but it is ill work