He retraced his steps beneath the river-bed, ascended the staircase, re-entered his room, replaced the gold band, and betook himself deep in thought to Nanon's apartments.
IX.
Nanon was, as usual, surrounded by maps, letters, and books. In her own way the poor woman was carrying on the war in the king's interest. As soon as she saw Canolles, she gave him her hand joyfully.
"The king is coming," said she, "and in a week we shall be out of danger."
"He is always coming," returned Canolles, with a sad smile; "unfortunately, he never arrives."
"Ah! but this time my information is reliable, my dear baron, and he will surely be here within the week."
"Let him make what haste he may, Nanon, he will arrive too late for us."
"What do you say?"
"I say that instead of wearing yourself out over these maps and papers, you would do better to be thinking of means of escape."