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Rh and to complete the arrangements for striking the blow upon which he had now decided.

When Pascal arrived the two had a long conference, and once again Pascal advised a policy of caution.

"Don't set your foot inside the Castle gates," he urged vigorously. "It can do no good and may work incalculable mischief."

"Would you go in my stead?"

"With all the willingness in life."

"And shall the leader shirk the risk which his followers would take? Is it thus we Bourbon leaders lead?"

"That is no reason. There are times, of course, when the leader should be first, but this is not one of them. You know what sort of wild beast government this is in Morvaix; you have now ample cause to do all you will against the Governor; ride out then to Cambrai and yourself bring up the troops."

"Shall a Bourbon give men cause to sneer at him for a coward? Nay, Pascal, you would but anger me to press such counsel further."

"But your life to me and to us all is too precious to be risked in such a venture. I know what Dubois would urge were he here. Still, let it be as you will."

"I am not risking my life, man. Do you think this Duke, daredevil though he be, will venture to harm Bourbon's son when once I declare myself? His own soldiers would revolt against it. No man shall call me poltroon; and none has ever before advised me to deserve such a term."

"There you wrong me, Gerard. But I say no more. Pray heaven no harm come of it. It was my duty to urge this counsel, but I knew you would not so act;" and Pascal smiled.

"To our plans then. Another messenger must be found to ride to Cambrai with all the haste possible