If you will believe it, there are numbers and numbers of the lesser officers who would desire that the Maid should now be told that her work is done, and that she can retire to her home in Domremy; that the King will come himself with another reinforcing army to raise the siege, so that they may get rid of her, and take the glory to themselves whenever the place shall be truly relieved.

Could you believe such folly, such treachery ?" We could not; we could scarce believe our ears, and right glad was I to hear how that La Hire had had no part in this shameful council; and I hope that Dunois had not either, though I fear me he was less staunch.
La Hire had returned to the city to seek to infuse into the citizens some of the spirit of the Maid.

He was always for bold attack, and would be ready on the morrow, we did not doubt, for whatever might betide.
It was little after dawn when we rode forth, the Maid in her white armour at our head, carrying her small pennon, whilst D'Aulon bore the great white standard close behind.

Her face was pale and rapt.
None of us spoke to her, and Pasquerel, her good chaplain, rode behind telling his beads as he went.
We reached the Burgundy Gate; and behold it was fast shut.

At the portal stood De Gaucourt, a notable warrior, with a grim look about his mouth.