“Very well; I believe I can trust you, M. le Duc,” and I heard him withdraw and clang the door shut after him.
“Jean, Jean,” called Richelieu, “you heard?”
“Yes, everything,” I answered.
“The regent doubtless thinks I shall be safer at Bayonne, three hundred leagues away, than in the Bastille. Well, so be it, but nevertheless I shall keep tryst with Charlotte to-morrow night. Listen. Be at the dryad fountain at ten o’clock. I will meet you there. I do not doubt Louise Dacour will be there also.”
I trembled at the thought.
“If human power can do it I will be there,” I said.
“And listen, Jean,” continued Richelieu; “you are to make my house your home if you get out of here. You understand? Jacques will know you. Silence. The governor is returning.”
A moment later his door was opened again.
“Are you ready, monsieur?” asked Maison-Rouge.
“Quite ready,” answered Richelieu, “and a thousand thanks for your courtesy.”