In the clear moonlight they had seen the crosses of the routiers on the arms of the two men sent from Domme. In a moment the party was surrounded, and the two freebooters to protect themselves drew their swords.
Jean pushed forward. "My friends, do you not know me? We are the Del' Peyras, and my father is but just released from bondage. I am taking him home."
"We will not hurt you, Messire Jean," said a peasant. "But these fellows with you—they are beasts of prey. They have killed our men. Stand aside, that we may knock them off their horses and then beat out their brains."
"You shall not do this."
"Why not? They are brigands, and not fit to live."
"They are under my protection."
The peasants were ill satisfied; having felt their power they had become impatient of all restraint on it.
"Look here," said Jean, "my honour and my father's are engaged for these men. Do not force us to draw our swords on their behalf."
"How do you know but that they will fall on you?"
"They dare not," answered Jean.