Page:A courier of fortune (1904).djvu/257

Rh "He is a shrewd, nimble-witted fellow," said Gerard when the man had left.

"And you will be shrewd, my lord, if you fill the time by snatching a soldier's nap. I'll keep watch."

"By your leave, my lord, let me watch," put in Pierre. "Watching is my business," and with that the other two lay down on the floor and were soon asleep.

Babillon was as good as his word, and in less than an hour and a half he was back and brought good news.

He had seen Pascal and learned that the house had already been searched by the Castle troops, and a small body of soldiers left to guard it. These Pascal was prepared to overpower at any moment. Babillon had found the road thither fairly clear also and had ascertained the best route to take.

"In half an hour at most we can reach the woods of Malincourt, my lord, and the captain will be there with a strong force to meet us."

"Then we'll be off at once," said Gerard; and once more Gabrielle was roused and they set forth.

Misfortune appeared to have dealt her last blow at them for that night, in foiling the attempt to escape; and under Babillon's guidance they reached the woods of Malincourt without mishap.

"You will come to the maison, Babillon," said Gabrielle. "You may be in danger in the city, and you have rendered us a service I shall never forget."

"By your leave, miladi, I will return. Suspicion will not fall my way; but should there be danger I can then seek your protection. Trouble is already in the making in the city, and when the men of Morvaix learn how your ladyship has been treated, I know nothing of their tempers if there be not deep resentment and wrath."

"A timely thought," interposed Dubois, overhearing this. "A diversion in the town would help us much at Malincourt."