“With your leave, and a little help in lifting him, I could carry him if it be not too far,” interrupted the stranger. And with Dauban’s and Lucette’s assistance, he picked Denys up and bade them show him the way.
“You are strong, monsieur,” said de Proballe, with a smile at the ease with which he bore the heavy burden.
“I am a soldier, monsieur, and he who fights must needs have strong arms. It were best if your servant there were to run on and prepare for our coming.”
Dauban’s face scowled at the word servant.
“Run on, Jacques, and see to this,” said de Proballe, adding: “He is my secretary, monsieur, not my servant.”
Dauban hastened on then, and Gabrielle and her uncle walked in front, Lucette keeping by Denys.
“It is the cavalier who came to my assistance in the market place yesterday, uncle,” said Gabrielle.
“Who is he? I am much mistaken if I have not seen him somewhere before,” was the reply.
“I have not inquired his name.”
“He belongs not to Morvaix, I think, and seems, as you said, a man of some distinction. I will ask his name and station.”