"This evening at six o'clock you will depart with Count Frantz. Here is the guide for your route," added the prince, handing to his aid the note he had just written.
Then he remarked:
"Major Butler, you will not wait long for the proofs of my satisfaction if you accomplish, with your usual devotion and firmness, the mission I entrust to you."
"Your Highness can rely upon me."
"I know it, but I also know that, once recovering from his present dejection, and being no longer restrained by his respect for me, Count Frantz will certainly try to escape from your care along the route, and to get back to Paris at any risk. If this misfortune happens, sir, take care, for all my resentment will fall on you."
"I am certain that I shall not be undeserving of the kindness of your Highness."
"I hope so. Do not forget, too, to write to me twice a day until you reach the frontier."
"I will not fail, monseigneur."
"Upon your arrival on the territory of the Rhine provinces, send a despatch to the military authority."
"Yes, monseigneur."