"I have something better than that," said Richon. "I have certain knowledge. The council of citizens has decided to take Île Saint-Georges first of all."
"Good," said Canolles, "let them come; I am ready for them."
The conversation had reached this stage and the dessert had just been served, when they heard drums beating at the entrance of the fortress.
"What does that mean?" said Canolles.
"Pardieu!" exclaimed the young officer who had brought the news from court, "it would be curious if they should attack you at this moment; an assault and escalade would be a delightful after-dinner diversion!"
"Deuce take me! it looks very much like it," said the old officer; "these wretched cads never fail to disturb you at your meals. I was at the outposts at Charenton at the time of the war in Paris, and we could never breakfast or dine in peace."
Canolles rang; the orderly on duty in the antechamber entered.
"What is going on?" Canolles asked.
"I don't know yet, Monsieur le Gouverneur; some messenger from the king or from the city, no doubt."
"Inquire, and let me know."