"''Tis upon the part of the King,' said the commissary, heaving up his shoulders.
"'My good friend,' quoth I, 'as sure as I am I, and you are you—'
"'And who are you?' he said.
"'Don't puzzle me,' said I. 'But it is an indubitable verity,' I continued, addressing myself to the commissary, changing only the form of my asseveration,' that I owe the King of France nothing but my good-will, for he is a very honest man, and I wish him all the health and pastime in the world.'
"'Pardonnez-moi,' replied the commissary. 'You are indebted to him six livres four sous for the next post from hence to St. Fons, on your route to Avignon, which being a post royal, you pay double for the horses and postilion, otherwise 'twould have amounted to no more than three livres two sous.'
"'But I don't go by land,' said I.
"'You may if you please,' replied the commissary.
"'Your most obedient servant,' said I, making him a low bow.
"The commissary, with all the sincerity of grave good-breeding, made me one as low again. I never was more disconcerted by a bow in my life. 'The devil take the serious character of these people,' said I, aside; 'they understand no more of irony than this.' The comparison was standing close by with her panniers, but something sealed up my lips. I could not pronounce the name.
"'Sir,' said I, collecting myself, 'it is not my intention to take
post.'