ess I reflected as I rode that the very moment at which
Mademoiselle de Canaples had brought herself to think better of me was
like to prove the last we should spend together. Yet not
altogether bitter was that reflection; for with it came also the
consolation--whereof I had told her--that I had not been taken before
she had had cause to change her mind concerning me.

That she should care for me was too preposterous an idea to be
nourished, and, indeed, it was better--much better--that M. de Montresor
had come before I, grown sanguine as lovers will, had again earned her
scorn by showing her what my heart contained. Much better was it that I
should pass for ever out of her life--as, indeed, methought I was
like to pass out of all life--whilst I could leave in her mind a kind
remembrance and a grateful regret, free from the stain that a subsequent
possible presumption of mine might have cast o'er it.

Then my thoughts shifted to Andrea. St. Auban would hear of my removal,
and I cared not to think of what profit he might derive from it. To
Yvonne also his presence must hereafter be a menace, and in that wherein
tonight he had failed, he might, again, succeed. It was at this juncture
of my reverie that M. de Montresor's pleasant young voice aroused me.

"You appear downcast, M. de Luynes."

"I, downcast!" I echoed, throwing back my head and laughing. "Nay. I was
but thinking.

"Believe me, M. de Luynes," he said kindly, "when I tell you that
it grieves me to be charged with this matter. I have done my best to
capture you. That was my duty. But I should have rejoiced had I failed
with the consciousness of having done all in my power."

"Thanks, Montresor," I murmured, and silence followed.

"I have been thinking, Monsieur," he went on presently, "that possibly
the absence of your sword causes you discomfort."

"Eh? Discomfort? It does, most damnably!"

"Give me your parole d'honneur that you will attempt no escape, and not
only shall your sword be returned to you, but you shall travel to Paris
with all comfort and dignity."

Now, so amazed was I that I paused to stare at the officer who was young
enough to make such a proposal to a man of my reputation. He turned his
face towards me, and in the moonlight I could make out his questioning
glance.

"Eh, bien, Monsieur?"

"I am more than grateful to you, M. de Montresor," I replied, "and I
freely give you my word of honour to seek no means of eluding you, nor
to