"Monsieur," broke in the high, rather sharp voice of the old Marquis, "that is a title which is no longer current in France. As loyal subjects of, the King the word is banished—like the man."
"I am but new to France, Monsieur le Marquis, and have not yet learned to avoid the ancient habit."
"And yet you are a Frenchman," commented the Marquis dryly. "You said you came from Aumenier. I did not catch your name, sir?"
"Marteau, at your service."
"One of the loyal Marteaux?"
"The last one, sir."
"And pray why are you new to France?"
"I have but two months since been released from an Austrian prison and an Austrian hospital."
"I made inquiry," said the Countess suddenly, the tones of her voice bespeaking her deep agitation, "I caused the records to be searched. They said you were dead, that you had been killed at the bridge of Arcis with the rest of your regiment."
"I was unfortunate enough to survive my comrades as you see, mademoiselle," said Marteau.