One of them approached me, and asked if I knew the whereabouts of Neuvilly.
I told him it was half-way between Clermont and Varennes, and pointed out the direction to take.
“Can you tell me, sir,” said he, “the cause of the agitation of the people?”
“The movements of the troops about the city for the last two days. It is reported that they are to form a convoy for a treasure, and the inhabitants are curious.”
The two officers looked at each other.
“Can one get to Neuvilly,” asked one of the two, “without passing through the town?”
“Impossible!” replied I. “A canal of great width intersects the road; and even if your horses could swim across they would not be able to mount the opposite bank.”
The officer turned round to his friend.
“What will you do? It appears that the relays must pass through the town.”
“We have plenty of time,” replied his friend; “the courier will precede the carriage two hours.”