"Moreover, you must find some way to cross the river without having
recourse to the ferryman, who is a dangerous fellow."

"We have an old skiff. I will persuade my father to have it repaired."

"Very well. Will you also promise me to avoid the Marquis de Sairmeuse?"

"I will."

"Wait a moment; we must be prepared for any emergency. It may be
that, in spite of our precautions, you will meet him here. Monsieur de
Sairmeuse is arrogance itself; and he hates you. You detest him, and you
are very hasty. Swear to me that if he provokes you, you will ignore his
insults."

"But I should be considered a coward, Monsieur!"

"Probably. Will you swear?"

Maurice hesitated, but an imploring look from Marie-Anne decided him.

"I swear!" he said, gravely.

"As far as Chanlouineau is concerned, it would be better not to let him
know of our agreement--but I will take care of this matter."

M. Lacheneur paused and reflected for a moment, as if striving to
discover if he had forgotten anything.

"Nothing remains, Maurice," he resumed, "but to give you a last and very