"A friend," replied Gautran.
"That is easily said," cried Vanbrugh. "I am not in a trustful mood. Hold off a bit, or I may do you mischief."
"Do you not know me?" asked Gautran, approaching closer, and measuring himself with the dark form of Vanbrugh. They were of exactly the same height.
"What, Gautran!" exclaimed Vanbrugh in a gay tone.
"Yes, Gautran."
"Welcome, friend, welcome," said Vanbrugh, with a laugh. "Give me your hand. Veritable flesh and blood. You have a powerful grip, Gautran. I thought we should meet again. What caused you to make yourself scarce so suddenly last night? You vanished like a cloud."
"I had business to do. Have you got any more of that brandy about you?"
"I am not sure whether you deserve it. After emptying my flask, you may make off again. A poor return for hospitality, my friend."
"I promise to remain with you--it is what I came for--if you give me brandy."
"I take your word," said Vanbrugh, producing a flask. "Drink, but not too greedily."