"He is round-shouldered, wears an embroidered doublet, white plume, brown cloak; his gestures are infrequent but imperative."
"As I thought; it's the Duc d'Épernon."
"The Duc d'Épernon!"
"Well, well, here I am telling you my business," said the traveller with a laugh. "I never do so with others; but no matter, you have done me so great a service that I don't care so much what I say to you. How are the men dressed who are with him?"
"Gray helmets."
"Just so; they are his staff-bearers."
"Become musket-bearers for to-day."
"In my honor; thanks! Now, do you know what you ought to do, my young gentleman?"
"No; but tell me your opinion, and if what I ought to do can be of any service to you, I am ready in advance to undertake it."