De Mouy then approached the duke, and both listened for La Mole to finish and go out; but when the latter had changed his clothes, he himself saved them all further trouble by drawing near to the door.
"Pardon me, monseigneur," said he, "but did your highness meet the Count de Coconnas on your way?"
"No, count, and yet he was at service this morning."
"In that case they will assassinate me," said La Mole to himself as he went away.
The duke heard the noise of his retreating steps; then opening the door and drawing De Mouy after him:
"Watch him going away," said he, "and try to copy his inimitable walk."
"I will do my best," replied De Mouy. "Unfortunately I am not a lady's man, but a soldier."
"At all events I shall expect you in this corridor before midnight. If the chamber of my gentlemen is free, I will receive you there; if not, we will find another."
"Yes, monseigneur."
"Until this evening then, before midnight."