It was borne by the rider of an old and tired horse, and this rider was the old curé of Mamezan, Père Blandinière, who was returning to the town after having dispensed extreme unction to a dying member of his congregation. From time to time he chirruped to his steed, which seemed almost exhausted.
The good man was greatly surprised at the sudden appearance of Vigilant, whose sharp barks demanded prompt attention, and he turned the rays of the lantern upon the faithful creature.
"Why, bless me!" he exclaimed, bringing his horse to a halt, which was only too easily done. "What's the meaning of a dog like this being away out here alone at such an hour of the night?"
For he saw at once that it was no common farmer's dog, but a poodle of high breeding that was barking so insistently at his horse's feet.
So soon as Vigilant saw that he had attracted the curé's attention he sat up on his hind legs, and begged for help in a way that could not be misunderstood.
Then, dropping on all fours, he darted off in the direction where Cæsar was, and as quickly returned to resume his entreaties. The wise old man at once grasped the situation.
"I understand you, you clever animal!" he said in a tone of great kindliness. "Your master has succumbed to the cold, and you want me to help him. Lead me to him then, I will follow at once, and the good God grant I may be in time!"
Vigilant, the moment he saw his meaning was understood, gave a volley of joyous barks, and rushed off towards where he had left Cæsar, coming back every few yards to make sure that the curé was following, for in his impatience he went much faster than the wearied old horse.
A little later the curé was bending over the motionless form of Cæsar.