Henry of Anjou, was unable to overcome.

Such was the outward aspect of things in August, 1572, but there
were not wanting rumours that already Coligny, taking advantage
of the footing given him, had gained an influence over the young
king, which threatened Catharine de' Medici herself. The
admiral, therefore, to whom the Huguenot half of France had long
looked as to its leader, was now the object of the closest
interest to all; the Guise faction, hating him--as the alleged
assassin of the Duke of Guise--with an intensity which probably
was not to be found in the affection of his friends, popular with
the latter as he was.

Still, many who were not Huguenots had a regard for him as a
great Frenchman and a gallant soldier. We--though we were of the
old faith, and the other side--had heard much of him, and much
good. The Vicomte had spoken of him always as a great man, a man
mistaken, but brave, honest and capable in his error. Therefore
it was that when the landlord mentioned him, I forgot even my
hunger.

"He was shot, my lords, as he passed through the Rue des Fosses,
yesterday," the man declared with bated breath. "It is not known
whether he will live or die. Paris is in an uproar, and there
are some who fear the worst."

"But," I said doubtfully, "who has dared to do this? He had a
safe conduct from the king himself."

Our host did not answer; shrugging his shoulders instead, he