The Queen of Navarre was at Blois, and Jeanne wrote me a long account of the balls and festivities Charles had arranged.  I do not suppose they appealed strongly to Queen Joan, who had little taste for such worldly matters, but the music, the dance, and the joyous merriment were quite to the liking of the younger ladies in her train.

“The king has persuaded my dear mistress to consent to the marriage,” Jeanne wrote, “and it is settled that we are to go from here to Paris.  Felix has just left for Touraine.  He is a dear, good fellow, and has been very kind.  He says it is stupid for you to stay at Le Blanc.  The king is so full of the marriage and of affairs of State that he will not attend to any less important business.  Felix declares that if Prince Henry comes to Paris you must come too, and push your claims.  It is certain that the prince’s marriage will stop all further persecution of the Huguenots, and it is that which caused my mistress to give her consent.  Felix told me yesterday that the Guises are very angry with the king, and have gone away.  From all I hear, I really believe he would be pleased if they never came back.”

I read portions of my sister’s letter to Jacques, but when I remarked that our troubles were nearly at an end, he shook his head, saying, “Those who live will see, monsieur.”

CHAPTER XXII

L’Estang Tells His Story

Spring had ripened into summer, and I was still at Le Blanc, not having heard from my patron, and being unwilling to depart without his orders.  Cordel had gone to Paris, and, for the time at least, had abandoned his schemes.

One day, about the third week in June, I had just returned from a morning gallop when Jacques met me in the courtyard with the news that Ambroise Devine had brought me a packet from Monsieur Bellievre.

I had almost forgotten the man, never having seen him since the morning when I started on the memorable journey to Tanlay.

“It is along while since we met,” I said, greeting him.  “My father told me you recovered from your wounds, and I expected to find you in Rochelle.”

“Rochelle forms my headquarters, so to speak, monsieur, but I am in the hands of the chiefs.  My last journey was to Flanders, whence I am now returning.  Hearing that I was on my way to Rochelle, Monsieur Bellievre entrusted me with this packet for you.”

“You must stay and have a gossip with me,” said I, having thanked him; “I hear little news from the outside world.”

“You honour me, monsieur; but it is necessary for me to push on with all speed; I am carrying important despatches.”

“But you need refreshment!”

“Jacques has seen to that, monsieur, and also to my horse.”

“We may meet again,” I said, as he took his leave.

“It is very likely.  There will be a gathering of our gentlemen in Paris before long; but doubtless Monsieur Bellievre has told you all the news.”