as they mounted and rode off, the words "Remember Jarnac!" passed from
man to man. It was a watchword that boded ill for their opponents.

From day to day our scouts brought in word of the royal forces. They
outnumbered us by several thousands, but that did not damp our ardour;
in spite of Jarnac, we felt that we were marching to victory.

We had advanced within two days' distance of the city of Limoges, when
our scouts galloped in with the information that they had encountered a
strong force of hostile cavalry. Our preparations for battle were all
made, so Coligny continued his march, the horsemen retiring before us,
and making no effort to attack.

We passed an anxious night: the sentries were doubled, the outposts
strengthened, and the men slept with their weapons in their hands, ready
to spring up at the first note of warning. For the Admiral's personal
attendants there was no sleep whatever. We passed our time in visiting
the outposts, and in seeing that everything was secure. Only after day
broke were we able to snatch an hour or two's rest.

"Faith," laughed Felix, as the march was resumed, "this is fine
preparation for a battle! Edmond, rub the dust from your eyes; you look
sleepy enough to fall from your saddle!"

"And all our labour was wasted!" I grumbled. "Those fellows just went
comfortably to sleep, laughing at us for our pains."

"Never mind!" said my comrade merrily, "it may be our turn to laugh
next. And, after all, I would rather laugh last."