"All this country could not persuade me; only France can do that; and first I shall persuade France," he answered, speaking to his old cue stoutly.
"Mummer!" broke out De la Riviere. "By God, I will arrest you now!"
He stepped forward, putting his hand in his breast, as if to draw a weapon, though, in truth, it was a summons.
Like lightning the dwarf shot in between, and a sword flashed up at De la
Riviere's breast.
"I saved your father's life, but I will take yours, if you step farther, dear Seigneur," he said coolly.
Valmond had not stirred, but his face was pale again.
"That will do, Parpon," he said quietly. "Monsieur had better go," he added to De la Riviere, "or even his beloved law may not save him!"
"I will put an end to this," cried the other, bursting with anger.
"Come, gentlemen," he said to his companions, and turned away.
Medallion paused, then came to Valmond and said: "Your Excellency, if ever you need me, let me know. I'd do much to prove myself no enemy."
Valmond gave him his hand courteously, bowed, and, beckoning a soldier to take his horse, walked towards his tent. He swayed slightly as he went, then a trembling seized him. He staggered as he entered the door of the tent, and Parpon, seeing, ran forward and caught him in his arms. The little man laid him down, felt his pulse, his heart, saw a little black stain on his lips, and cried out in a great fear: