"Be frank; you knew me?"
"It is strange, monsieur, that you will not understand me. It seems to me that it is equally ignoble to kill a defenseless man, as six men to attack one."
"There may be reasons for all things."
Ernanton bowed, but did not reply.
"Did you not see," continued Mayenne, "that I fought sword to sword with that man?"
"It is true."
"Besides, he is my most mortal enemy."
"I believe it, for he said the same thing of you."
"Do you think me dangerously wounded?"
"I have examined your wound, monsieur, and I think that, although it is serious, you are in no danger of death. I believe the sword slipped along the ribs, and did not penetrate the breast. Breathe, and I think you will find no pain in the lungs."