"Now," said the officer, drawing nearer to him with evident interest, "have you no commissions,—in the city? Do you expect nothing? You say that you are a soldier; so am I; look upon me, therefore, as a comrade."
Canolles stared at him in amazement.
"No, monsieur," said he; "no, I have no commissions in the city; no, I expect nothing, unless it be a certain person whom I may not name. As for looking upon you as a comrade, I thank you for the suggestion. Here is my hand, monsieur, and later, if I need anything, I will remember what you say."
It was the officer's turn to stare at Canolles in amazement.
"Very well, monsieur," said he, "you will be served at once;" and he withdrew.
A moment later two soldiers entered with the supper; it was more elaborate than Canolles had asked for, and he sat down at the table and ate heartily.
The soldiers in their turn gazed wonderingly at him. Canolles mistook their amazement for envy, and as the wine was excellent Guyenne, he said to them:—
"My friends, order two glasses."
One of the soldiers smiled, and procured the articles in question. Canolles filled them; then poured a few drops of wine into his own.
"Your health, my friends!" said he.