I thank him, and he shall have proof of my affection in due time.

And now our good landlord's wine is free to you, for one goblet each.
My children," he added, turning to the little mockers, "come to me to-morrow and I will show you how to be soldiers.

My General shall teach you what to do, and I will teach you what to say." Almost instantly there arose the old admiring cries of, "Vive Napoleon!" and he knew that he had regained his ground.

Amid the pleasant tumult the three entered the hotel together, like people in a play.
As they were going up the stairs, Parpon whispered to the old soldier, who laid his hand fiercely upon the fine sword at his side, given him that morning by Valmond; for, looking down, Lagroin saw the young Seigneur maliciously laughing at them, as if in delight at the mischief he had caused.
That night, at nine o'clock, the old sergeant went to the Seigneury, knocked, and was admitted to a room where were seated the young Seigneur, Medallion, and the avocat.
"Well, General," said De la Riviere, rising with great formality, "what may I do to serve you?
Will you join our party ?" He motioned to a chair.
The old man's lips were set and stern, and he vouchsafed no reply to the hospitable request.
"Monsieur," he said, "to-day you threw dirt at my great master.

He is of royal blood, and he may not fight you.