We laughed, and I put my hand on Jean’s shoulder, saying:
“You see here, monsieur, ‘The Shadow of Condé.’”
“I shall take care,” was the reply, “that I do not mistake the shadow for the substance; will you enter, gentlemen?” and with these words he motioned us into the doorway, now opened by the guard.
In the courtyard we were stopped for a few seconds, and de Bresy went off to announce our coming. When he went out of earshot, I remarked:
“Did you hear what de Bresy said—that he would take care not to mistake the shadow for the substance? Think you he suspects?”
“It is impossible to say. You must keep him engaged the whole time when the stroke comes off to-morrow.”
“Why not to-day?”
“If it can be done to-day, I’ll risk it; but there may be suspicions, and ’twould be well to let them sleep.”
“Remember,” I said, “that as soon as ever matters have been explained to the Prince I leave you. I have to do that ride to St. Loup to-day.”
“You are the best of friends,” he answered. “But hush! Here comes de Bresy.”