The first movement of the party was to be made at nine o'clock, in conjunction with the captain of the gendarmerie.
We have seen, from what Morgan told Amelie, the nature of the present intentions of the Companions of Jehu.

The news brought from Mittau and from Brittany had put them at ease.

Each man felt that he was free, and, knowing that the struggle had been a hopeless one, he rejoiced in his liberty.
There was therefore a full meeting at the grotto of Ceyzeriat, almost a fete.

At twelve o'clock the Companions of Jehu were to separate, and each one, according to his facilities, was to cross the frontier and leave France.
We know how their leader employed his last moments.

The others, who had not the same ties of the heart, were supping together in the broad open space of the quarry, brilliantly illuminated--a feast of separation and farewell; for, once out of France, the Vendee and Brittany pacificated, Conde's army destroyed, who knew when and where they should meet again in foreign lands.
Suddenly the report of a shot fell upon their ears.
Every man sprang to his feet as if moved by an electric shock.