"So much the better!" said Canolles.
Meanwhile the officer was drawing near. Canolles assumed the haughty, dignified attitude of a persecuted man.
A few steps from Canolles the officer removed his hat.
"Have I the honor of addressing Monsieur le Baron de Canolles?" he asked.
"Monsieur," the prisoner replied, "I am truly overwhelmed by your courtesy. Yes, I am Baron de Canolles; treat me, I beg you, as one officer might treat another, and assign me as comfortable quarters as possible."
"Monsieur," said the officer, "the place is not in the best of condition, but, as if in anticipation of your wishes, all possible improvements have been made."
"Whom should I thank for such unusual attention?" Canolles asked with a smile.
"The king, monsieur, who does well all that he does."
"To be sure, monsieur, to be sure. God forbid that I should slander his Majesty, especially on this occasion; I should not be sorry, however, to obtain certain information."
"If you so desire, monsieur, I am at your service; but I will take the liberty of reminding you that the garrison is waiting to make your acquaintance."