"We have seen him many a time at Versailles, my friend. You are very mysterious."
"Have his enemies, or his friends set him free?" demanded the old Frenchman.
"That," said Bellenger, "I may not tell."
"Does Monsieur know that you are going to take him to America?"
"That I may not tell."
"When do you sail, and in what vessel?"
"These matters, also, I may not tell."
"This man is a kidnapper!" the old noble cried, bringing out his sword with a hiss. But Philippe held his arm.
"Among things permitted to you," said Philippe, "perhaps you will take oath the boy is not a Bourbon?"
Bellenger shrugged, and waved his hands.