This horseman could not be recognized in his cloak and slouched hat.

As to the horse, saddled like that of a rich citizen, it offered nothing remarkable to the most experienced eye.

Louis took the bridle: the officer held the stirrup without dismounting, and asked his majesty's orders in a low voice.
"Follow me," replied the king.
The officer put his horse to the trot, behind that of his master, and they descended the hill towards the bridge.

When they reached the other side of the Loire,-- "Monsieur," said the king, "you will please to ride on till you see a carriage coming; then return and inform me.

I will wait here." "Will your majesty deign to give me some description of the carriage I am charged to discover ?" "A carriage in which you will see two ladies, and probably their attendants likewise." "Sire, I should not wish to make a mistake; is there no other sign by which I may know this carriage ?" "It will bear, in all probability, the arms of monsieur le cardinal." "That is sufficient, sire," replied the officer, fully instructed in the object of his search.