"Because they are armed like Amadis or Rolando," replied Chicot.
"Ah! what matters the dress, my dear Chicot? you see we are not particular as to that."
"But I see at least two hundred men there."
"Ah! that is a good number."
Chicot began to feel very curious. He had really named too low a number, for the group before them consisted of two hundred men, who came silently and joined their party; each man was well armed and mounted, and they were led by a gentleman who came and kissed Henri's hand with much devotion.
They passed the river Gers, and then came on a second troop of one hundred men; the chief approached, and seemed to be making excuses for not bringing more men. Henri gave him his hand. They went on till they came to the Garonne; this they also passed, and about half a league on the other side, three hundred cavaliers, hidden in a pine forest, suddenly came in sight.
"Oh! monseigneur," said Chicot, "are not these enemies who have heard of your chase, and wish to oppose it?"
"No, my son, you are wrong; they are friends from Puzmirol."
"Mordieu! sire, you will have more men in your escort than trees in your forest."
"Chicot, I really believe the news of your arrival must have spread through the country, and all these people have come to welcome the ambassador from France."