"But yesternight."
"And he agreed to allow you to poison the wells?"
"Nay, by Our Lady, he would not."
"Well spoken, like a brave and gallant knight, for, by St. Denis, the plan is not to my liking even though these insolent islanders deserve all that is evil. But, see here! This letter must be given to the Governor of the town by to-morrow, though, alas! it is cold comfort to Sir John. Canst arrange to deliver it?"
"They will admit me by the postern of the Boulogne Gate at midnight. 'Twill be done."
"Then take thy reward. Hold the light closer while I count, for I know a Gascon of old! See to it: all bright crowns, of good weight."
The Frenchman addressed as Jehan handed a sealed document to the Gascon, who placed it in his doublet; then, setting the lantern on the ground and extending his hand, the latter counted the coins as Jehan took them from his wallet.
Loosening his poignard and motioning to Thompson to draw his knife, Raymond prepared to spring from his hiding-place.
Ere the two conspirators could recover from their astonishment the young knight had leapt upon them, and with one thrust of his weapon laid the traitorous Gascon dead at his feet. Instinctively the Frenchman sprang backwards and whipped out his sword.
"Yield thee!" thundered Raymond.