His brother met him, and in a few words told him what he had learned from Stanislas.
"My friends," he said, "my brother tells me that you are a party of discharged soldiers, who are passing the winter in a hut here in the forest, supporting yourselves by shooting and fishing.

I have to thank Providence for the thought that sent you here.

I have to thank you for your prompt assistance, to which we are indebted for our lives.
"I am Count Nicholas Staroski, and can at least make a substantial return for the service you have done me.

My estates lie some sixty miles to the north.

You will have no difficulty in finding me.
Present yourselves there at Easter.