"Shall I cut him down where he stands, Mon Commandant?" growled the old port-aigle, presenting his weapon.
"And add murder to treason!" exclaimed St. Laurent, his face flushing a little but not giving back an inch before the threatening approach of the veteran.
There was good stuff in him, evidently, and even those who foresaw terrible consequences to themselves in his unexpected presence could not but admire him. They were even proud that he was a Frenchman, even though he served the King they hated.
"By no means," said Lestoype, motioning the color-bearer back. "You shall go as freely as you came."
"And if you do as I suggest I shall go and forget all I have seen, messieurs."
"Impossible!"
"Upon my honor I shall do it but on one condition."
"Ah! and that is?"
"That you give me the Eagle."
"Give you the Eagle!" exclaimed old Captain Grenier.