"I am the Marquis of Fougereuse, and would like to have an interview with you."
"Take a seat, my lord marquis, and speak," said Girdel, looking expectantly at his visitor.
"I will not delay you long, Monsieur Girdel," the marquis began; "I know you have met with a misfortune—"
"Oh, it was not serious," said the athlete.
"Monsieur Girdel," continued the nobleman, "about one hour ago I was in peril of my life, and one of your men rescued me at the risk of his."
"You don't say so? How did it happen?" cried Girdel.
"I was in danger of drowning in the Cure; a young man seized me from out of the turbulent waters and carried me in his arms to a place of safety."
"Ah, I understand, the young man of whom you spoke—"
"Was your son, Fanfaro!"