“Undoubtedly, since it also goes to Thouars.”
“Well, we will join it as it passes. Perhaps you will give us breakfast and permit my comrade to ride in one of the wagons.”
“Undoubtedly, citizen,” chimed in another with a laugh; “but we’ll not permit any such scarecrow as you to ride with her. You’d prefer a handsome soldier, wouldn’t you, my dear?”
“As you will,” I agreed, laughing too, though with no small effort; “but you see how pale she is—she suffers greatly. A night’s rest will change all that. So good-night, citizens; till to-morrow.”
This time they appeared really satisfied and started for the door in a body. But a sudden uproar from without stopped them.
“Name of a dog!” yelled a hoarse voice. “Where are those blockheads? Ah, they shall hang for this! Deserters! Traitors!”
There was an uneasy movement among the men. I saw that they had reason to know and fear that voice. In another instant a ferocious face appeared in the doorway, its eyes gleaming with rage.
“What!” it cried; and I saw a sword gleam in the air and descend with no uncertain force on heads and shoulders. “Dallying here with a light-o’-love! Is it thus you do your duty? Is it thus you serve the Nation? Hounds! Curs! I’ll show you!” and he drove them forth pell-mell into the road. “And who are you, citizen?” he demanded, wheeling upon me when the last of them had disappeared.
“I am on my way to join the army at Thouars,” I said.
“And she?” and he jerked his thumb toward my companion.