Immense acclamations followed this speech. The two brothers talked for some time, and then Joyeuse asked Henri if he had heard news of the duke.
"It appears he is dead," replied Henri.
"Is that certain?"
"The gendarmes saw his horse drowned, and a rider, whose head was under water, dragged by the stirrup."
"It has been a sad day for France," said Joyeuse. Then turning to his men he said, "Come, gentlemen, let us not lose time. Once the waters have retired we shall probably be attacked. Let us intrench ourselves until the arrival of news and food."
"But, monseigneur," said a voice, "the horses have eaten nothing since four o'clock yesterday, and are dying with hunger."
"We have corn in our encampment," said the ensign, "but what shall we do for the men?"
"Oh!" said Joyeuse, "if there be corn, that is all I ask; the men must live like the horses."
"Brother," said Henri, "I want a little conversation with you."
"Go back to your place; choose a lodging for me, and wait for me there."