be in readiness."

I told him of the soldiers stationed in the corridor, and once more
left the house. The night was growing late, and the streets, in spite
of the _falots_ filled with burning pitch, and the dingy lamps
suspended by chains passing from one side of the road to the other,
were almost in darkness.

But Paris was wide awake and unduly excited. Swarms of people of the
lowest class, unkempt, ragged, and frowsy, but all armed in some
fashion, were prowling around intent on mischief, and cheering for De
Retz. Bands of Black Mantles, grave and preoccupied as became owners
of property, guarded the shops, in dread equally of the _canaille_ and
the nobles.

These last swaggered about showing off their finery, singing noisily,
and occasionally compelling the passers-by to cheer for Conde. Now and
again a coach, preceded by lackeys bearing flambeaux, would roll by,
conveying ladies of distinction to or from some brilliant assembly.

At the corner of the Rue Crillon I looked for M. Belloc, but some time
passed before he appeared, and then I could see nothing of a carriage.

"In the yard of the 'Plume of Feathers,'" said he, in answer to my
question; "it would attract too much attention standing here. Paris is
in a turmoil to-night. I do not like the signs. The people are
restless without knowing why, though there is some talk of Conde's
returning."

"The Cardinal has first to unlock the door," I replied, at which the
old warrior smiled grimly, thinking such a proceeding on Mazarin's part
very unlikely.

"Why is the carriage required?" he asked.

"To convey Madame Coutance either to the Bastille or to her own place
at Aunay. It is a troublesome business," and I explained just what my
orders were.

"Better get it over at once," he suggested, "it will be none the
pleasanter for delay;" so, putting a bold face on the matter, I walked
to the door of the house, and inquired for Madame Coutance.

"She is not at home, monsieur," replied the porter. "Both the ladies
went out early this evening with Madame de Chevreuse."

I put several further questions, but the porter was either a very
stupid man or a very faithful servant--he knew nothing, and I had to
retire baffled.

"They will return soon," said my companion, when I rejoined him,
"unless madame has received a hint of her danger."

"That is hardly probable! Even Mazarin had no suspicion until an hour
ago. But he will begin to wonder if anything h