I found the hotel in a state of commotion, and Felix, who met me in the lobby, exclaimed excitedly:  “It has begun, Edmond; we march almost immediately.  I am just going to say good-bye to your sister.  Will you be away from us long?”

“I think not.  I am carrying a despatch to the commandants at Saint Jean d’Angely and Cognac.  Afterwards I shall rejoin you.”

“Till we meet again then,” said he, hurriedly, anxious to make the most of the short time still at his disposal.

Several of our leaders besides De Guerchy were with the Admiral, and from time to time one of them came out, mounted his horse, and galloped off.  Presently the door opened, and De Guerchy called me inside, where the Admiral handed me two packets.

“One for the commandant at Saint Jean d’Angely,” he said, “and one for him at Cognac.  From Cognac you will proceed to Angouleme, unless you meet with us on the way.  I need not warn you to be prudent and vigilant, nor remind you that these despatches must not fall into the hands of an enemy.  Start at once; you should reach Saint Jean d’Angely before norning.”

I took the packets, placed them securely inside my doublet, and, after a last word of caution from De Guerchy, left the room.  The news of the coming movement had spread throughout the town and the streets were crowded.  The excitement was intense, and I witnessed many sad scenes; for every one understood that of the thousands who marched from Rochelle comparatively few would return.

Heavy carts, and big, clumsy guns—­chiefly useful for making a noise—­rumbled along; dashing cavaliers with flaunting favours bestrode their horses proudly; sturdy foot-soldiers carrying murderous pike or deadly arquebus tramped steadily onward, while weeping children and silent, white-faced women stood bowed with grief.

Even beyond the gates I found crowds of people who had come thus far, loth to say the last farewell to their dear ones; but after a while I left the throng behind, and set my horse into a canter.  Now and again I overtook a body of troops, marching cheerfully, and singing their favourite hymns.  They, too, were tired of inaction, and eager to plunge into the strife.

With the falling of darkness I slackened my pace, riding carefully, listening for any unusual sounds, and peering into the gloom.  I had not forgotten my former adventure, but nothing untoward happened, and shortly after midnight I drew rein at the gate of the town.

“Your business?” exclaimed the officer of the guard.

“I am from Rochelle, with a despatch for your commandant.”

“From the Prince?”

“From the Admiral—­it is all one.”

The gate was opened, and, having dismounted, I led my horse forward by the bridle.

“You have had a dark ride, monsieur.”

“But a safe one,” I answered, laughing.  “Where is the commandant to be found?  He will not feel well pleased at being wakened from his sleep.”