We have gained a sufficient number of muskets to arm all our party." "If I do not offer to give up the leadership to you, Monsieur de la Verrie," Cathelineau said gravely, "it is from no desire on my part to be a commander; but I am widely known to the peasantry of many parishes round Pin and, perhaps because I understand them better than most, they have confidence in me; and would, I think, follow me rather than a gentleman like yourself, of whom they know but little." "They are quite right," Monsieur Sapinaud said.

"The peasantry commenced this war.

It is right that they should choose their own leaders.

You and your two companions have already their confidence, and it is far better that you should be their leaders.

I believe all other gentlemen who join you will be as ready as we are to follow you, and I am sure that the only rivalry will be as to who shall most bravely expose himself, when he faces the enemy." "I thank you, sir," Cathelineau said.