"What a fright you gave us, old boy. The poor fellow rode away in the night to get a physician, and—"
"A physician? For me?" laughed Girdel. "Thank God, we are not so far gone."
"But you were unconscious more than half an hour; we became frightened, and Fanfaro rode to Vagney."
"He rode? On our old mare, perhaps? If he only returns," said Girdel, anxiously. "The water must be dangerous about Vagney."
"He has a good horse; the Countess of Salves gave Fanfaro her thoroughbred," said Bobichel.
"Ah! that is different. Now, children, let me alone. Cousin Schwan, send me the two men whom I am to bring to Remiremont to-morrow; I must speak to them."
Caillette, Bobichel, Schwan and Rolla went away. In the dark corridor a figure passed by Rolla, and a hoarse voice said:
"Well?"
"All for nothing," growled Rolla; "he lives, and is as healthy as a fish in the water."