Page:The Writings of Prosper Merimee-Volume 3.djvu/182

160 160 THE ETRUSCAN VASE

Saint-Clair soon tried to turn his horse aside into a narrow track, hoping the bore would not follow him ; but it was of- no use, bores do not leave their prey so easily. Themines pulled the bridle in the same direction, increased his horse's pace to keep by Saint- Clair's side and com- placently continued the conversation.

I have said that the path was a narrow one. The two horses could hardly walk abreast. It was not, therefore, to be wondered at that even so good a horseman as Themines should graze against Saint-Clair's foot as he walked along with him. This put the finishing touch to his anger, and he could not contain himself any longer. He rose in his stirrups and struck The- mines' horse sharply across the nose with his whip.

" What the devil is the matter with you, Auguste? " cried Themines. " Why do you strike my horse? "

" Why do you pursue me? " roared Saint- Clair.

" Have you lost your senses, Saint-Clair? You forget to whom you are talking."

" I know quite well that I am talking to a puppy."

" Saint-Clair! . . . you must be mad, I think. . . .. Listen to me. To-morrow you