The amount was so considerable, that I did not hesitate one moment about going to Havre.
A power of attorney, however wide its scope, could never provide for all the eventualities that might occur; under such circumstances, the presence of the interested party is often of the greatest consequence.
I wrote a few lines to M. de Sérigny, telling him that an affair of the greatest importance had called me to Havre, and I left orders with my people to forward my letters to that town.
Two hours later I was on the road.
We were approaching the last relay before reaching Havre, when I heard the hurried tramp of horses galloping behind us, the sharp cracking of a whip, and a voice not unknown to me crying out, "Stop! Stop!"
My postilions looked at me inquiringly. I made them a sign to stop, and, suddenly, I saw at the door of my carriage Madame de Fersen's courier, whose horse was covered with foam and torn by spurs.
This man was so breathless from his rapid race that he could only utter these words in handing me a letter:
"M. le comte, this is a letter from the princess. I have gained four hours upon M. le comte. I could do no more."