“I can send to each of them leave of absence for fifteen days, that is all—to Athos, whose wound still makes him suffer, to go to the waters of Forges; to Porthos and Aramis to accompany their friend, whom they are not willing to abandon in such a painful condition. Sending their leave of absence will be proof enough that I authorize their journey.”
“Thanks, monsieur. You are a hundred times too good.”
“Begone, then, find them instantly, and let all be done tonight! Ha! But first write your request to Dessessart. Perhaps you had a spy at your heels; and your visit, if it should ever be known to the cardinal, will thus seem legitimate.”
D’Artagnan drew up his request, and M. de Tréville, on receiving it, assured him that by two o’clock in the morning the four leaves of absence should be at the respective domiciles of the travelers.
“Have the goodness to send mine to Athos’s residence. I should dread some disagreeable encounter if I were to go home.”
“Be easy. Adieu, and a prosperous voyage. A propos,” said M. de Tréville, calling him back.
D’Artagnan returned.
“Have you any money?”
D’Artagnan tapped the bag he had in his pocket.
“Enough?” asked M. de Tréville.