ook back on those early days of my
recovery with a certain amount of pleasure.

From the date of my leaving home I had lived at high pressure, in a
maze of intrigue and strife. My wits, such as they were, had ever been
employed; my life had been in danger a score of times. The calm which
followed this incessant scheming and fighting was delicious, and I did
not feel very sorry that Raoul had given me a dig with his sword.

Though sorely needed by his patron, he refused to leave Aunay as long
as I was in the slightest danger; the ladies treated me like a brother,
while the doctor spared neither time nor trouble to bring about the
restoration of my health. It was new to me to be thus petted, and I
thoroughly enjoyed it.

Madame would not hear of my going home.

"That would be a fine thing indeed!" she exclaimed banteringly. "I
mean to claim the credit of your recovery. But as soon as your
strength returns you shall write, and I will provide a messenger to
deliver your letter."

"My mother will be anxious," I said. "No doubt Belloc has told her
something of what has happened."

"Make yourself easy on that head," exclaimed Raoul. "I thought of
that, and sent D'Arcy to caution him. He will only mention that you
have met with a slight accident."

This was very thoughtful as well as kind of my comrade, and I thanked
him heartily.

Three weeks after my first coming downstairs, he took his departure for
the capital. His patron had already sent him several urgent messages,
and now that the doctor had pronounced me out of danger he felt it his
duty to go.

"We are nearing the end," said he; "and the Duke has need of all his
friends. Mazarin may make a desperate effort, but I prophesy that by
the time you are well he will be dead or banished."

"In either case Paris will be no place for me, and I shall return to
the farm."

"Not at all," he answered earnestly. "I shall speak to the Duke, and
he will take you into his service."

Unwilling to vex him, I let the subject drop, though not having the
slightest intention of joining the Cardinal's enemies. So I hobbled
into the courtyard to witness his departure, and echoed his farewell,
"Till we meet again," as he passed through the gateway.

At first I missed him a great deal, but each succeeding day increased
my strength; I was able to walk alone, and altogether felt very
comfortable. Either by myself or accompanied by the ladies I took the
air on the terr