“Here is Gournay bridge,” said Honorine; “will monsieur leave us now?”
“No, madame; unless you bid me to do so, I shall not leave you, trembling as you are, out in the country, at night. I shall escort you to your home.”
Honorine bowed and they walked on. But they were silent, for Agathe dared not speak since their guide had almost lost his temper in answering her last question.
They reached Honorine’s house, and Paul bowed to the ladies, saying:
“You are at home now, I believe?”
“Yes, monsieur. I do not know how to thank you——”
“For what, madame, pray? I have simply done my duty.”
“Adieu, Ami; adieu, my good dog!”
The dog and his master took their leave.
“Oh! I could have beaten you!” said Honorine, “when you questioned that man about the story of the cross!”