'That has been thought of' was the answer. He turned to the King
of Navarre, who, after a moment's search, produced a small object
from his pouch. This he gave to his companion, and the latter
transferred it to me. I took it with curiosity. It was the half
of a gold carolus, the broken edge of the coin being rough and
jagged. 'Show that to Mademoiselle, my friend,' Du Mornay
continued, 'and she will accompany you. She has the other half.'

'But be careful,' Henry added eagerly, 'to make no mention, even
to her, of the King of Navarre. You mark me, M. de Marsac! If
you have at any time occasion to speak of me, you may have the
honour of calling me YOUR FRIEND, and referring to me always in
the same manner.'

This he said with so gracious an air that I was charmed, and
thought myself happy indeed to be addressed in this wise by a
prince whose name was already so glorious. Nor was my
satisfaction diminished when his companion drew out a bag
containing, as he told me, three hundred crowns in gold, and
placed it in my hands, bidding me defray therefrom the cost of
the journey. 'Be careful, however,' he added earnestly, 'to
avoid, in hiring your men, any appearance of wealth, lest the
adventure seem to be suggested by some outside person; instead of
being dictated by the desperate state of your own fortunes.
Promise rather than give, so far as that will avail. And for
what you must give, let each livre seem to be the last in your
pouch.'

Henry nodded assent. 'Excellent advice!' he muttered, rising
and drawing on his cloak, 'such as you ever give me, Mornay, and