"Do you prefer the land route, duke?" asked Henri.
"I have no preference when I have an order to execute, sire."
"There, now you are sulky. Ah! kings have no friends."
"Those who give orders can only expect to find servants."
"Monsieur," replied the king, angry again, "you will go then to Rouen; you will go on board your ship, and will take the garrisons of Caudebec, Harfleur, and Dieppe, which I will replace afterward. You will put them on board six transports, and place them at the service of my brother, who expects aid from me."
"My commission, if you please, sire."
"And since when have you been unable to act by virtue of your rank as admiral?"
"I only obey, sire; and, as much as possible, avoid responsibility."
"Well, then, M. le Duc, you will receive the commission at your hotel before you depart."
"And when will that be?"