"But where shall we find him; of whom demand him? In Heaven's name, Aloyse, tell me!"
"It is a terrible story, Monseigneur! And I swore to my husband, by your father's command, never to reveal it to you; for as soon as you know it, you will plunge into the midst of fearful dangers, Monseigneur, and will declare war against foes a hundred times stronger than yourself. But the most desperate peril is preferable to certain death. You had made up your mind to die; and I knew that you would not grow weak in that determination. After all, I prefer to expose you to the doubtful chances of the bitter conflict which your hither dreaded in your behalf. At all events, your death will be less certain, and will be delayed a little. So I am going to tell you everything, Monseigneur; and it may be that God will pardon me for proving false to my oath."
"Yes, of course, dear Aloyse. My father! my father living! Oh, quickly! speak!"
But at this moment there was a soft knock at the door, and Nostradamus appeared.
"Aha, Monsieur d'Exmès," said he, "how bright and lively you are! I'm glad to see it! You were not like this a month ago. You seem to be all ready to take the field."
"Yes, indeed,—to take the field," said Gabriel, with sparkling eye, looking meaningly at Aloyse.
"So I see that the physician has no further business here," said Nostradamus.
"Nothing, save to receive my grateful thanks, Master, and I dare not say the value of your services, for under certain circumstances one's life is not valuable."
And Gabriel, pressing the doctor's hand, left in it a roll of gold-pieces.
"Thanks, Monsieur Vicomte d'Exmès," said Nostradamus. "But give me leave to make you a present which I think will prove of value to you."