"No, my lord; the Cure has overflowed in consequence of the heavy rains, and the road from here to Vagney is impassable."
"Can we not reach Vagney by any other way?"
"No, my lord."
"Bah! the peasants exaggerate the danger so as to get increased prices for their services. Have you tried to get horses?"
"Yes, my lord; but unfortunately no one in the village except the host owns any."
"Then buy the host's horses."
"He refuses to give me the animals. An acrobat who came here this morning, and who owns two horses, refused to sell them to me."
"That looks almost like a conspiracy!" exclaimed the marquis.
"I think so too, and if I am permitted an advice—"
"Speak freely; what do you mean?"