proverb at Court.

"What I chose, M. le Capitaine des Suisses!" he hissed. And his hand
closed like a vice on the other's wrist. "What I chose, look you! And
remember, another time, that I am not a Huguenot, and say what I please."

"But there is great need of care," Nancay protested, stammering and
flinching. "And--and I have orders, M. le Comte."

"Your orders are not for me," Tavannes answered, releasing his arm with a
contemptuous gesture. "And look you, man, do not cross my path to-night.
You know our motto? Who touches my brother, touches Tavannes! Be warned
by it."

Nancay scowled. "But the priests say, 'If your hand offend you, cut it
off!'" he muttered.

Tavannes laughed, a sinister laugh. "If you offend me I'll cut your
throat," he said; and with no ceremony he went out, and dropped the
curtain behind him.

Nancay looked after him, his face pale with rage. "Curse him!" he
whispered, rubbing his wrist. "If he were any one else I would teach
him! But he would as soon run you through in the presence as in the Pre
aux Clercs! And his brother, the Marshal, has the King's ear! And
Madame Catherine's too, which is worse!"

He was still fuming, when an officer in the colours of Monsieur, the
King's brother, entered hurriedly, and keeping his hand on the curtain,
looked anxiously round the Chamber. As soon as his eye found Nancay, his