Then turning to his men he cried: "Be lively, my lads." Instantly every man jumped the ditch and disappeared.

For a few seconds the crackling of twigs on the bushes, and the sound of steps among the underbrush, was heard.

Then all was silent.
"Well," asked Cadoudal, "do you think that with such men I have anything to fear from the Blues, brave as they may be ?" Roland heaved a sigh; he was of Cadoudal's opinion.
They rode on.

About three miles from Trinite they caught sight of a black spot approaching along the road with great rapidity.

As it became more distinct this spot stopped suddenly.
"What is that ?" asked Roland.
"As you see, a man," replied Cadoudal.
"Of course; but who is this man ?" "You might have guessed from the rapidity of his coming; he is a messenger." "Why does he stop ?" "Because he has seen us, and does not know whether to advance or retreat." "What will he do ?" "Wait before deciding." "For what ?" "A signal." "Will he answer the signal ?" "He will not only answer but obey it.