On our way back to the Hotel Coligny we encountered Monseigneur, with a body of his gentlemen, riding through the city.  Numerous persons were in the streets, and as he passed by, bowing and smiling graciously, they greeted him with cheers.

“Anjou has some purpose in doing that,” remarked Felix; but I made no answer, being occupied in watching L’Estang, who rode in the very rear of the cavalcade.  He had caught sight of me, and while still looking straight before him he raised his hand, pointing significantly to the west.  I nodded my head, and with a smile of satisfaction he rode on.

“Did you notice that?” I asked.

“Yes,” replied Felix, “but without understanding.”

“The meaning was plain enough.  He was asking if Jeanne had gone, and I answered ‘Yes.’”

“He takes a great interest in your sister,” said Felix a trifle discontentedly.

“Because she is my sister,” I replied.  “Listen, the worthy citizens are cheering for Guise now.”

“I suppose he is parading the streets as well.  What a pack of fools these Parisians are!”

“If they cheered for Coligny,” I laughed, “you would credit them with all the wisdom under the sun.  So much depends on one’s point of view!”

“Edmond!  Felix!  Why do you look so astonished?  Do you fancy I am a spirit?  Feel my hand; that is substantial enough, is it not?” and Roger Braund laughed heartily as he crossed the lobby of the Admiral’s house toward us.

“You in Paris!” I exclaimed, after we had exchanged greetings, “when did you arrive?  How long have you been here?”

“An hour,” he replied cheerfully.  “Is your sister well, Edmond?”

“Quite well, thank you.  She is on the way to Rochelle; but come to our room, where we can talk more privately.”

He accompanied us to our room, and I told him the story as it has been set down here.

“You did right,” said he thoughtfully!  “Paris just now is no place for her.  But this journey to Rochelle is a hazardous venture with only Jacques to protect her!”

“Jacques is a man of courage and discretion!” exclaimed Felix, with rather more heat than was necessary.

“Jacques is a brave fellow,” agreed Roger, “but he is only one man.  Edmond, with your leave, I will set out after the travellers, and assist Jacques in guarding your sister.”

“You will have but a short stay in Paris,” remarked Felix.

“I shall return quickly to offer my sword to your chief.  From Edmond’s story, I fancy he will have need of all his friends.  I left my horse at an inn; it is a fine beast, and is thoroughly rested now.  I will start immediately.  No, I am not hungry; I have made a substantial meal.  I shall come straight here on my return.  Good-bye to you both.  Directly I have placed Mademoiselle Jeanne in safety you will see me again?”

We had scarcely time to answer before he had gone, and from the window I saw him speeding along the street as if he feared the loss of a single second would overthrow all his plans.