D'Andelot has been, for the last ten days, in communication with one of them.

We may, of course, expect to meet with a stout resistance but, with the advantage of a surprise, and with so many gallant gentlemen with me, I have no shadow of fear as to the result.

I need not point out to you how important its possession will be to us.

It will keep open a road to the south; will afford a rallying place for all our friends, in this part of France; and the news of its capture will give immense encouragement to our co-religionists throughout the country.

Besides, it will counterbalance the failure to seize the court, and will serve as an example, to others, to attempt to obtain possession of strong places.
"We shall ride at an easy pace today, for the distance is long and the country hilly.