When the address had concluded, the preacher began a hymn in which all joined. Just as they began, Philip heard the crack of a stick among the trees. It was not on the side from which Pierre would be coming. He listened attentively, but the singing was so loud that he could hear nothing; except that once a clash, such as would be made by a scabbard or piece of armour striking against a bough, came to his ears.
Suddenly he heard a shout.
"That is Pierre!" he exclaimed to himself, and ran forward into the circle.
There was a cry of alarm, and the singing suddenly stopped.
"I am a friend," he exclaimed. "I have come to warn you of danger. There are men coming in this direction from the town."
"My brethren, we will separate," the minister said calmly. "But first, I will pronounce the benediction."
This he did solemnly, and then said:
"Now, let all make through the wood and, issuing from the other side, return by a circuit to the town.
"Mademoiselle Claire, I will accompany you to the chateau."
At this moment Philip heard horses approaching.