I trow it will do you faithful service; and may the Lord in whom you trust lead you to victory, and save this distracted realm of France from the perils which threaten to overwhelm her!" "I thank you, Seigneur de Baudricourt," she answered, as she took the weapon, and permitted me to sling it for her in the belt for the purpose which she already wore, "I will keep your gift, and remember your good words, and how that you have been chosen of heaven to send me forth thus, and have done the bidding of the Lord, as I knew that so true a man must needs do at the appointed time.

For the rest, have no fear.

The Lord will accomplish that which He has promised.

Before the season now beginning so tardily has reached its height, the Dauphin will be the anointed King of France, the English will have suffered defeat and Orleans will be free!" "Heaven send you speak sooth, fair Maid," answered the rugged old soldier, as he eyed the slim figure before him with something of mingled doubt, wonder, and reverence in his eyes.
Then as though some strange impulse possessed him, he took her hand and kissed it, and bending the knee before her, said: "Give me, I pray you, a blessing, ere you depart!" A wonderful light sprang into her eyes.

She laid her hand upon the grizzled head, and lifted her own face, as was her wont, to the sunny sky.
"The blessing of the King of Heaven be upon you, Robert de Baudricourt, in that you have been an instrument chosen of Him.