But the Marquis has business at Chambord this evening, after which there will be no reason--indeed, it will inconvenience him exceedingly--to return to Blois." "What!" I cried, more and more astonished.

"St.Auban is leaving Blois ?" "This evening, sir." "But, voyons, Vicomte, why make an assignation in such a place and at night, when at any hour of the day I can meet the Marquis on this side, without suffering the inconvenience of crossing the river ?" "There will be a bright moon, well up by nine o'clock.

Moreover, remember that you cannot, as you say, meet St.Auban on this side at any time he may appoint, since to-night or to-morrow the officer who is in search of you will arrive." I pondered for a moment.

Then: "M.

le Vicomte," I said, "in this matter of ground 't is I who have the first voice." "How so ?" "Because the Marquis is the affronted one." "Therefore he has a right to choose." "A right, yes.