For an instant Molembrais hesitated. Dared he say no? He would have given much to have shaken off La Mothe now that the gates were passed, and have forced his way to the King alone; but the attempt might waken that suspicion which slept so lightly in Valmy. While he paused, La Mothe answered, deciding the question.
"Unfortunately, yes, Monsieur de Saint-Pierre. Will you please tell
Monsieur de Commines that I have arrived?"
"Is it arrest? My dear lad——" he began as La Mothe nodded, but
Molembrais again interrupted him.
"We have no time now. Where is the King?"
"In his usual lodgings."
"Mort-dieu! monsieur, how should I know his usual lodgings? Am I of
Valmy?"
"Monsieur, a little civility would do you no harm."
"Monsieur, once I have seen the King I will be as civil or as uncivil as you please."
Turning on his heel Saint-Pierre beckoned to an under officer. "Pass these gentlemen to Captain Leslie: he is on duty in the King's ante-room. Don't fear, La Mothe, I will send word to Monsieur de Commines without delay. He is anxious about you, for he has been enquiring at the gates once this morning already."
"Monsieur de Saint-Pierre, there is a lady behind us; she has ridden all night——"