I drew rein beside the swiftly flowing stream, winding itself like a flood of glittering silver between the black shadows of its banks.

A little while I sat there listening, and surveying the stately, turreted chateau that loomed, a grey, noble pile, beyond the water.

I speculated what demesne this might be, and I realized that it was probably Lavedan.
I pondered what I had best do, and in the end I took the resolve to swim the river and knock at the gates.

If it were indeed Lavedan, I had but to announce myself, and to one of my name surely its hospitalities would be spread.

If it were some other household, even then the name of Marcel de Bardelys should suffice to ensure me a welcome.
By spurring and coaxing, I lured my steed into the river.