The courtesy had something non-committal in it, and it did not escape the keen eye of the vicomte.
"Monsieur, you are the most gallant poet I know," and the vicomte saluted gravely.
They were becalmed the next day and the day following.

The afternoon of the second day promised to be dull and uninteresting, but grew suddenly pregnant with possibilities when the Comte d'Herouville addressed the vicomte with these words: "Monsieur, I should like to speak to the Chevalier du Cevennes.

Will you take upon yourself the responsibility of conducting me to his cabin?
It is not possible for me to ask the courtesy of Monsieur de Saumaise.

My patience becomes strained at the sight of him." "Certainly, Monsieur," answered the vicomte, pleasantly, though the perpendicular line above his nose deepened.

"I dare venture that the matter concerns the coming engagement at Quebec, and you desire a witness." "Your surmise is correct.