On the morning of the day when they expected to reach Madrid, Don Miguel asked Archy what his plans were.
"To go to the French Ambassador, declare myself, and ask to be sent to France."
"The French Embassy is closed on account of small-pox, so I have heard in the last few days. But I can easily introduce you to the Minister of Marine, who will investigate your case."
"May I ask how long this would take, Excellency?"
Don Miguel shrugged his shoulders.
"A month—two months, perhaps. The Minister of Marine will not be hurried."
Archy sat silent, and reflected. Presently he said:
"With these clothes, and the little money I have, I believe I could get to the French frontier in half the time."
"Do you expect to be taken for a Spanish peasant?" asked Don Miguel, with a suspicion of a smile.