One thing is
certain, however,' he continued, maliciously touching an
arquebuss which he had brought out, and set upright
against a chair while I was at the door; if you attempt
the slightest resistance, we shall know how to put an
end to it, either here or on the road.'
I drew a deep breath, the very imminence of the danger
restoring me to the use of my faculties. I changed my
tone and laughed aloud.
'So that is your plan, is it?' I said. 'The sooner we
start the better, then. And the sooner I see Auch and
your back turned, the more I shall be pleased.'
He rose. 'After you, Monsieur,' he said.
I could not restrain a slight shiver. His new-born
politeness alarmed me more than his threats. I knew the
man and his ways, and I was sure that it boded ill to
me.
But I had no pistols, and only my sword and knife, and I
knew that resistance at this point must be worse than
vain. I went out jauntily, therefore, the landlord
coming after me with my saddle and bags.
The street was empty, save for the two waiting horsemen
who sat in their saddles looking doggedly before them,
The sun had not yet risen, the air was raw.
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