It was but of late that there had been a regular army, for the nobles still brought their tenants and retainers to the field and supported them at their own expense.
To de Lisle and Chavigny these grades of military rank were of no account whatever.

The rank of colonel would add in no way to their position as members of noble families.

They fought for honour, and against the enemies of France.

They were always addressed by their family name, and would both have resented being called lieutenant.
They were proud of being Turenne's aides-de-camp, but had no thought of remaining in the army after the war was over, as they would then resume their place at court.

They had both taken a strong liking to their young comrade, whose manner of thought differed so widely from their own.