"Do so, monsieur," replied d'Alençon. "But when shall I have an answer?"
De Mouy looked at the prince in silence. Then apparently coming to a decision:
"Monseigneur," said he, "give me your hand. I must have the hand of a son of France touch mine to make sure that I shall not be betrayed."
The duke not only extended his hand towards De Mouy, but grasped De Mouy's and pressed it.
"Now, monseigneur, I am satisfied," said the young Huguenot. "If we were betrayed I should say that you had nothing to do with it; otherwise, monseigneur, however slightly you might be concerned in the treason, you would be dishonored."
"Why do you say that to me, De Mouy, before telling me that you will bring me the answer from your leaders?"
"Because, monseigneur, asking me when you would have your answer was the same as asking me where are the leaders, and because if I said to you, 'This evening,' you would know that the chiefs were hiding in Paris." As he uttered these words, with a gesture of mistrust, De Mouy fixed his piercing glance on the false vacillating eyes of the young man.
"Well, well," said the duke, "you still have doubts, Monsieur de Mouy. But I cannot expect entire confidence from you at first. You will understand me better later. We shall be bound by common interests which will rid you of all suspicion. You say this evening, then, Monsieur de Mouy?"
"Yes, monseigneur, for time presses. Until this evening. But where shall I see you, if you please?"
"At the Louvre, here in this room; does that suit you?"