He knew that his words uttered now would soon reach the ears of Jean de Mezy, and it was worth while to be considered a miraculous swordsman.

He had read the count's mind when he stood at his elbow, shuddering a little at the thought that a prodigy with the blade might be sitting there, and he was resolved to make the thought return once more and stay.
"And, sir, you distinguish between swordsmen, and find it necessary to make preparation only for the very best?
And you so young too!" said the wondering innkeeper.
"Youth in such times as ours does not mean inexperience, Monsieur Berryer," said Willet.
"It is true, alas!" said the innkeeper, soberly.

"The world grows old, and there are seas of trouble.

I wish no annoyance to any guests of mine.

I know the courtesy due to visitors in our Quebec, and I would have stopped the quarrel had I been able, but the Count Jean de Mezy is a powerful man, the friend and associate of the Intendant, Monsieur Bigot." "I understand, Monsieur Berryer," said Robert, with calculated lightness; "your courtesy is, in truth, great, but don't trouble yourself on our account.