ntleman who is passing by
wishes to have the honor of paying his respects to the Comte de la Fere,
and if thou art satisfied with what thou hearest, then mention my name!"

Planchet, leading his horse by the bridle, drew near to the gate and
rang the bell, and immediately a servant-man with white hair and of
erect stature, notwithstanding his age, presented himself.

"Does Monsieur le Comte de la Fere live here?" asked Planchet.

"Yes, monsieur, it is here he lives," the servant replied to Planchet,
who was not in livery.

"A nobleman retired from service, is he not?"

"Yes."

"And who had a lackey named Grimaud?" persisted Planchet, who had
prudently considered that he couldn't have too much information.

"Monsieur Grimaud is absent from the chateau for the time being," said
the servitor, who, little used as he was to such inquiries, began to
examine Planchet from head to foot.

"Then," cried Planchet joyously, "I see well that it is the same Comte
de la Fere whom we seek. Be good enough to open to me, for I wish to
announce to monsieur le comte that my master, one of his friends, is
here, and wishes to greet him."

"Why didn't you say so?" said the servitor, opening the gate. "But where
is your master?"

"He is following me."

The servitor opened the gate and walked before Planchet, who made a sign
to D'Artagnan. The latter, his heart palpitating more than ever, entered
the courtyard without dismounting.

Whilst Planchet was standing on the steps before the house he heard a
voice say:

"Well, where is this gentleman and why do they not bring him here?"

This voice, the sound of which reached D'Artagnan, reawakened in his
heart a thousand sentiments, a thousand recollections that he had
forgotten. He vaulted hastily from his horse, whilst Planchet, with a
smile on his lips, advanced toward the master of the house.

"But I know you, my lad," said Athos, appearing on the threshold.

"Oh, yes, monsieur le comte, you know me and I know you. I am
Planchet--Planchet, whom you know well." But the honest servant could
say no more, so much was he overcome by this unexpected interview.

"What, Planchet, is Monsieur d'Artagnan here?"

"Here I am, my friend, dear Athos!" cried D'Artagnan, in a faltering
voice and almost staggering from agitation.

At these words a visible emotion was expressed on the beautiful
countenance and calm features of Athos. He rushed toward D'Artagnan with
eyes fixed upon him and c