said nothing, but quietly set
about arranging for our comforts. Mademoiselle retired to her room at
once, the landlady fussing after her, and after having assisted
Pierrebon to see to the horses I myself went to rest. I must have
slept for a good four hours, and on awakening found it was high noon.
Down I came, and entering the public room of the inn found it empty. I
went on towards the stables, where Pierrebon was still asleep near the
horses. There was no sign of mademoiselle, and thinking she was still
resting I let Pierrebon alone, and returning into the inn sat near a
window, awaiting my charge's appearance. Had I been alone I would have
pressed on to Poitiers, and reached it by nightfall; but as it was it
would be better to wait till well on in the afternoon, when
mademoiselle, being refreshed, would no doubt be able to travel. We
should halt at Miribeau for the night, and make Poitiers the next day.
So I let some time go past, and then, feeling dull, called to the host,
and invited him to share a bottle of wine with me. He came, as it
seemed, somewhat unwillingly; but soon we were in talk, and, for
something to say, I inquired about the other travellers. Here his
embarrassment increased, and he stammered out that they had gone on to
Richelieu about two hours ago; and then, as if taking a sudden
resolution, fumbled in his pocket, and drew forth a letter, which he
handed to me, saying: "For you, monsieur."

I tore open the cover, and read:

"MONSIEUR,--I owe you so much that I know not how to thank you or how
to explain my leaving you as I do now. I feel sure you would like to
know that I am going of my own free will, and with friends. Monsieur,
we will meet again I know, and then, perhaps, I shall be in a position
to show you that I can be grateful. DIANE."

I read to the end without a word, and glanced at my host. He saw and
understood the question in my eyes.

"Mademoiselle gave it to me with her own hands. I--I could not prevent
her leaving," he added, with fear in his voice. The poor wretch was
almost overcome with terror at the thought that I might turn against
him in my wrath.

"Thank you; that is enough." And crushing the letter in my hand I rose
and walked out. I was hurt and indignant, but after a little I cooled
down. After all, her proper place was with her friends. I had but
helped her on her way, and there was an end of it. So I swallowed my
ill-humour as bes