and 't will please these Canaples mightily. Naturally, had Eugène de
Canaples and I crossed swords, matters would have been rendered difficult."

"When did you learn all this?" I inquired.

"To-day, after the duel, and when it was known what St. Auban and Montmédy
had threatened me with. My uncle thought it well that I should withdraw
from Paris. He sent for me and told me what I have told you, adding that I
had best seize the opportunity, whilst my presence at Court was
undesirable, to repair to Blois and get my wooing done. I in part agreed
with him. The lady is very rich, and I am told that she is beautiful. I
shall see her, and if she pleases me, I'll woo her. If not, I'll return to
Paris."

"But her brother will oppose you."

"Her brother? Pooh! If he doesn't die of the sword-thrust you gave him,
which I am told is in the region of the lung and passing dangerous, he will
at least be abed for a couple of months to come."

"But I, mon cher André? What rôle do you reserve for me, that you have
desired me to go with you?"

"The rôle of Mentor if you will. Methought you would prove a merry comrade
to help one o'er a tedious journey, and knowing that there was little to
hold you to Paris, and probably sound reasons why you should desire to quit
it, meseemed that perhaps you would consent to bear me company. Who knows,
my knight errant, what adventures may await you and what fortunes? If the
heiress displeases me, it may be that she will please you--or mayhap there
is another heiress at Blois who will fall enamoured of those fierce