We found the guardhouse lined with soldiers, who scanned us very narrowly as we approached, and whose stern features and ordered weapons showed that they were not there for mere effect.

The fact, however, that we came from Tours, a city still in the king's hands, served to allay suspicion, and we passed without accident.
Once in the streets, and riding in single file between the houses, to the windows of which the townsfolk seemed to be attracted by the slightest commotion, so full of terror was the air, I experienced a moment of huge relief.

This was Blois--Blois at last.

We were within a few score yards of the Bleeding Heart.

In a few minutes I should receive a quittance, and be free to think only of myself.
Nor was my pleasure much lessened by the fact that I was so soon to part from Mademoiselle de la Vire.