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148 all you can in safety, using every discretion, and we will speak of it again."

"Ah, my fine cavalier, so we meet again. Seeking absolution from our new sir priest here, eh?"

Gerard turned quickly at the sneering voice to find that the two gallants whom he had surprised in their attack upon Denys, had come up unawares and now stood regarding Dubois and himself with sharp suspicious glances.

"Is the Duke dead that his serving men have come to power?" retorted Gerard. "Or is either of you minded to renew the affair of the gardens of Malincourt?"

"We are minded to see what the rats are about in the Castle, whatever the colour of their coats." It was d'Estelle who answered. He was pale and weak, and carried his arm in a sling.

"You are wounded, monsieur, and so licensed for a time in your insolence. But you, monsieur," and Gerard made a step toward Antoine. "You are still unhurt. Do you carry also an uncivil tongue? If I know not how your tongue runs, since I have not heard it yet, I know at least how your legs run, for I have seen them."

"This is no brawler's tavern," cried d'Estelle, insolently. "You are out of your element here."

"Peace," interposed Dubois, in his sonorous tones. "Be careful of such wanton provocation. I have known men's blood to flow for less. You should guard your tongue, young sir."

"All right, bald pate," cried d'Estelle with a flippant laugh.

"You have said nothing, monsieur," said Gerard to Antoine.

"Peace, my son, peace," said Dubois again, laying his hand on Gerard's shoulder. "Would you, too, provoke strife?"