“Hungry and thirsty both,” I replied.  “What is that?” for the sounds of angry voices came from the outside.

“It is nothing, monsieur; some one has drawn a knife, perhaps, and there is a little fighting, but that is all.  One does not regard these things,” and he hurried off to prepare my meal.

After leaving Poictiers, I avoided the towns as much as possible, though travelling in the country districts was nearly as hazardous.  The peasants having no work, and being without food, had formed themselves into robber bands, and more than once I owed my safety to the fleetness of my horse.

However, on the evening of the second day, I reached Rochelle, just as the gates were being closed.  The streets were filled with citizens and Huguenot soldiers, and it was apparent that the illustrious fugitives had arrived safely at their stronghold.

Being a stranger to the city I rode slowly along the street, noting the houses, and scanning the people closely, on the chance of discovering a familiar face.  In all my solitary wanderings I had not felt as lonely as I did now, amidst a seething crowd of my fellow-creatures.

The first thing, of course, was to find my father, but on coming to the Hotel Coligny, I resolved to dismount and to seek out Felix Bellievre.  Fortunately, he was within, and I received a hearty welcome, which caused me to feel once more as if I belonged to the world of human beings.

“Faith, Edmond,” he cried cheerily, “the grass has not grown under your feet!  I did not expect you until to-morrow, at the earliest.”

“One does not care to linger around an empty nest,” I replied moodily.

“Empty only for a short time, I hope.  Do not look so astonished.  I have seen your father.  More than that, I have been presented to your sister.  Already I am a friend of the family!  I will conduct you to the house, if you wish.  Come, I have plenty of leisure, and you will serve as an excellent excuse for my visit.”

“How did you happen to become acquainted with my father?” I asked, as we walked along.

“In the simplest way imaginable, my dear Edmond.  He called to pay his respects to the Admiral; being on duty at the time, I heard his name, and made myself known as your friend.  He was eager to hear news of you, and carried me off.  I met your sister, and you will not be surprised that within twenty-four hours I was repeating my visit.  You see there were so many things to tell her about yourself,” and he laughed roguishly.

“Are they depressed by what has happened?”

“Not in the least; they regard it as a trial of their faith; but here we are at the house.  I fear you will not see your estimable aunt; she is an invalid, and keeps strictly to her own rooms.  Ah, here is one of the servants; let him attend to your animal, and I will announce you.  Your sister will fall on your neck and embrace you.  Do you think it possible for us to change parts for a few minutes?”