it to him of what I spoke?

It was not Levert's business to govern my tongue for roe, so I only
said:

"Nay, we'll try our skill somewhat later; not now," and resumed my
conversation with Achille.

While his manner showed a concern I deemed the matter little to
warrant, yet it did make me consider, so I determined not to speak
truly of myself.

"Well, now, comrade, of your own intrigues. You were saying--?"

"Nay, nothing of that kind. I journey to Paris simply for my own
pleasure." Levert, who half listened at a distance knew I was going to
heed his advice, though I misdoubted his motive, and again took up his
pacing to and fro.

"Aye, my dear Captain, but 'tis a long trip for such an errand?"

"Yes, quite a long trip, but I weary of the life at Biloxi, and would
amuse myself for a while in France."

"But the garrison at Biloxi; is that strong enough to spare so good a
soldier? then the Indians, do you not fear them?"

I glanced at him quickly, only half betraying my thought, but replied
nonchalantly:

"No, the Indians are quiet, at least so our scouts tell us, and as for
the state of the garrison, you were long enough ashore to know we are
strong."

"Ah, then, there is another motive; a woman. Come, is it not true?
Confess?"

I blushed in spite of myself; it was an idle way I had, for I had seen
little of women. My confusion threw him completely off the track; had
I only guessed it, would have taken refuge in that device sooner.

"No, no, comrade; you are wrong"--but still somehow my color came and
went like a novice out of the convent. His good-humored raillery
continued until I became annoyed in earnest, yet was glad he took the
matter so seriously. When Levert passed us again on his walk I spoke
to him.

"Now, my dear Levert, we will try our fortune with the foils if it
pleases you."

"No, my humor is past. Do you try with Broussard; methinks he had
rather the better of you yesterday. You agree, Broussard?"

"Yes, yes," he replied, eagerly, "let us at it."

He fenced rather worse than usual, so I had no trouble in touching him
as I pleased. This begat an irritation of manner, and noticing it I
suggested we leave off.

He would not hear to it; I saw the color slowly leave his face; his
thin lips curled back and showed his teeth, until, fearing a serious
outbreak, I stepped back as if I would lay aside the foil. He pressed
me close, so close indeed I could not if I would drop my gu