His voice, if high, was still clear and strong.

"Has Monsieur le Comte ventured forth in this storm ?" "Yes, Monsieur; but he left word that he would return later with a company of friends." "Friends ?" The marquis shrugged.

"Is that what he calls them?
When do these grasping Jesuits visit me ?" "At eight, Monsieur.

They are due this moment, unless they have failed to make the harbor." "And they bring the savage?
Good.

He will interest me, and I am dying of weariness.