He remembered that there was formerly an old mine that had been stopped up somewhere near the place where the engineer was at work; he mentioned in private his suspicions to the general, who gave orders in consequence.

The old mine was discovered, cleared out, and by these means the town was taken the day before the time appointed.

Basile did not arrogate to himself any of the glory of this success; he kept his general's secret and his confidence.
Upon their return to Paris, after a fortunate campaign, the general was more grateful than some others have been, perhaps because more room was given by Basile's prudence for the exercise of this virtue.
"My friend," said he to Basile, "you have done me a great service by your counsel, and a greater still by holding your tongue.

Speak now, and tell me freely if there is anything I can do for you.

You see, as a victorious general, I have the upper hand amongst these fellows--Tracassier's scheme to ruin me missed--whatever I ask will at this moment be granted; speak freely, therefore." Basile asked what he knew Victoire most desired--that Monsieur and Madame de Fleury should be struck from the list of emigrants, and that their property now in the hands of the nation should be restored to them.