“Here, or in the neighbourhood.”

“You cannot take me with you?”

“No; the order is imperative. Near the camp you might be recognized; and your presence, you must be aware, would compromise his Eminence.”

“You are right.”

“Now, will you make me a report of all that has happened?”

“Why, I have related the events to you. You have a good memory; repeat what I have told you. A paper may get lost.”

“You are right; only let me know where to find you, so that I may not lost time in hunting for you about the neighbourhood.”

“You are right; wait.”

“Do you want a map?”

“Oh, I know this country well.”

“You will wait for me, then, at—”

“Let me reflect a moment. Oh yes, at Armentières.”

“What is Armentières?”

“A little town upon the Lys. I shall only have to cross the river, and I shall be in a foreign country.”

“Capital! But it is understood you will cross the river only in case of danger.”

“Certainly.”

“And you say you will wait for me at Armentières?”

“At Armentières.”

“Write that name on a piece of paper, lest I forget it. That is not compromising; a name of a town, is it?”

“Eh! who knows? No matter,” said milady, writing the name on a half sheet of paper; “I will run the risk.”

“Good!” said Rochefort, taking the paper from milady, folding it, and placing it in the lining of hit hat. “Besides, do not worry. I will do as children do, and in case I lose the paper, I will repeat the name as I go along. Now, is that all?”

“Good! When do you start?”

“In an hour—time to eat a morsel while I am sending for a post-horse.”

“Capital. Farewell, chevalier!”

“Farewell, countess!”

“Recommend me warmly to his Eminence!”

“Recommend me to Satan!”