Page:A courier of fortune (1904).djvu/90

74 were of such importance. The Governor was betraying himself by mixing up a personal intrigue with the work of Government. Not content with having misgoverned the people and overtaxed them to the verge of revolt—offences which might have been overlooked in view of the powerful force of soldiery he had raised and trained—he was now contemplating a complete reversal of policy in order to please Gabrielle for his own evil personal ends.

Here was Gerard's chance, and he was quick to see it and to determine to use it. He would continue the acted lie of his false character until he had secured from the Governor himself an admission of his real purpose, or had found other incontestable proof of it—de Proballe's word being less than valueless; and the moment he was satisfied he would strike.

To this end he sought out the young officer, Pascal, a close intimate friend, told him much of what he had learned, and prevailed on him to doff the monk's cowl and assume the character of his servant at Malincourt during the few hours or days he might have to remain there.

Pascal, to whom devilment in any form was welcome enough, entered readily into the spirit of the adventure, and agreed instantly. Together they obtained such apparel as was necessary, and returned to Malincourt together.

"I hope the old rat, de Proballe, won't recognize me," said Pascal. "I once won some three hundred crowns from him, and they say he never forgets a man who has beaten him with the dice box."

"I am full of anxiety over this, Pascal; for Heaven's sake avoid every chance of a mishap," replied Gerard earnestly.

"I'll keep out of his way. Have no fear for me. Lest he should know my voice, I'll play the dumb man."

"No, no, not that. No buffoonery, on any account."