A few people, attracted by the sight of our horses standing before the inn, had gathered round and were watching us.
Something I saw must be done, and done quickly.

In despair, and seeing no other resort, I broached a proposal of which I had not hitherto even dreamed.

'Mademoiselle,' I said bluntly, 'I must take you to my mother's.' 'To your mother's, sir ?' she cried, rousing herself.

Her voice rang with haughty surprise.
'Yes,' I replied brusquely; 'since, as you say, we cannot spend the night in the streets, and I do not know where else I can dispose of you.
From the last advices I had I believe her to have followed the court hither.

My friend,' I continued, turning to the landlord, 'do you know by name a Madame de Bonne, who should be in Blois ?' 'A Madame de Bonne!' he muttered, reflecting.