lain I will tear him
limb for limb!'

I shuddered, listening to her; but remembering that, being country
bred, she was really as strong as she said, and that likely enough some
advantage might accrue to us from her perfect fidelity and devotion
to her mistress, I gave a reluctant consent. I sent one of M. de
Rambouillet's men to the stable where the deaf man's bay was standing,
bidding him pay whatever was due to the dealer, and bring the horse to
the south gate; my intention being to mount one of my men on it, and
furnish the woman with a less tricky steed.

The briskness of these and the like preparations, which even for one
of my age and in my state of anxiety were not devoid, of pleasure,
prevented my thoughts dwelling on the future. Content to have M.
Francois' assistance without following up too keenly the train of ideas
which his readiness suggested, I was satisfied also to make use of Simon
without calling him to instant account for his treachery. The bustle of
the streets, which the confirmation of the king's speedy departure had
filled with surly, murmuring crowds, tended still further to keep my
fears at bay; while the contrast between my present circumstances, as I
rode through them well-appointed and well-attended, with the Marquis by
my side, and the poor appearance I had exhibited on my first arrival in
Blois, could not fail to inspire me with hope that I might surmount this
danger, also, and in the event find Mademoiselle safe and uninjured. I
took leave of M. de Rambouillet with many expressions of esteem on both
sides, and a few minutes before eleven reached the rendezvous outside
the south gate.

M. d'Agen and Maignan advanced to meet me, the former still presenting
an exterior so stern and grave that I wondered to see him, and could
scarcely believe he was the same gay spark whose elegant affectations
had more than once caused me to smile. He saluted me in silence; Maignan
with a sheepish air, which ill-concealed the savage temper defeat had
roused in him. Counting my men, I found we mustered ten only, but the
equerry explained that he had despatched a rider ahead to make inquiries
and leave word for us at convenient points; to the end that we might
follow the trail with as few delays as possible. Highly commending
Maignan for his forethought in this, I gave the word to start, and
crossing the river by the St. Gervais Bridge, we took the road for
Selles at a smart trot.

The weather had changed