n, "I hope monsieur will not be offended, but I belong to
the Religion."

"Faith, Philippe," I said, "I guessed you were shrewd; you are the very
fellow for our purpose. Since you belong to the Religion"--the rascal's
lips twitched ever so slightly--"you will have no scruple in helping us.
We are of the Religion, too."

"Is it possible, monsieur?" he said, with a start of well-feigned
surprise.

"Now listen to me," I continued; "you know where the marshal's army is.
Don't contradict; it will be useless."

"I am attending, monsieur."

"We want to see this army, but we do not wish to introduce ourselves to
the soldiers. Now a sharp guide, thoroughly acquainted with the
district, can easily lead us to a place from which we can learn all we
want to know. Is not that a good scheme?"

"It has one serious drawback, monsieur."

"Speak on; we are listening."

"If the guide should be caught by the king's troops, he would be
hanged."

"That is awkward, certainly. On the other hand, if he refuses to go he
will die by the sword. You are a sensible man, Philippe, and will see
the force of my remarks. Now, which is it to be? Will you earn a few
crowns by taking the risk, or will you lose your life at once?"

"Truly, monsieur," said he, after a pause, "you place me in an
unpleasant position; but since there is no way out of it, I will do as
you wish."

"A sensible answer, and there is but one thing more to add. If you are
thinking to play us false, we count three swords and six loaded pistols,
and you cannot reasonably expect to escape them all."

"Monsieur's kindness in pointing out these things is truly touching!"
exclaimed the rascal with a broad grin.

"My friend is noted for such kindness!" laughed Felix. "And now let us
get into the saddle. Is there a spare horse in the stables, landlord?"

"Yes, monsieur," replied our host, whose limbs were shaking through
fright.

"Then we shall use it for Philippe. Don't be afraid; we will pay you for
the hire."

"Monsieur is very good."

"And a word in your ear, landlord. On our return, do not let us find
that your tongue has been wagging!"

We rode out from the inn yard, Jacques and Philippe in front, Felix and
I following.

"He is a clever rascal," remarked Felix in a low voice; "he is no
Huguenot."

"If he is," I replied laughing quietly, "'twas a quick conversion. He
was certainly a good Catholic until he had taken note of our dress. But
the fellow will guide