And thereupon the two friends launched into a discussion of old times, when the two widows and their sons lived together—the two women occupying one bed, and the two boys the other. And this discussion they kept up until long after they retired, and until sleep overtook them.
The next morning Traverse conducted his friend down to the breakfast parlor, to introduce him to Doctor St. Jean, who, as soon as he perceived his young medical assistant, sprang forward exclaiming:
"Grand ciel! Is this then you? Have you then returned? What for did you run away with my horse?"
"I went to New Orleans in great haste, upon very important business, sir."
"Grand Dieu! I should think so, when you ride off on my horse without saying a word. If it had been my ambling pony I should have been in despair, I! Your business so hasty and so important was accomplished, I hope."
"Yes; I did my errand with less trouble than I had anticipated, owing to the happy circumstance of meeting my friend here, who has come down hither connected with the same business."
"Ah! vera happy to see your friend. In the medical profession, I suppose?"
"No, sir; in the army. Allow me to present him. Major Herbert Greyson, of the -th Regiment of Cavalry."
"Ou! ay! Grand ciel! This is the brave, the distinguished, the illustrious officer, so honorably mentioned in the dispatches of the invincible Taylor and the mighty Scott!" said the little Frenchman, bowing his night-capped head down to his slippery toes.
Herbert smiled as he returned the bow. And then the little French doctor, turning to Traverse said: