“I have just come from Piziquid.”
“Your authority is sufficient, then, monsieur,” said he. “The messenger of the governor to Vaurin doubtless knows his business, and it is unnecessary for me to interfere.”
I bowed my thanks, holding courtesy to be in place, since I had gained my point.
“And I pardon your abruptness, Monsieur Grande,” continued the Black Abbé. “We are both working for the king. We have no right to quarrel when we have such great work to do. I am sure I may accept your apology for your abruptness?” And he looked at me with an air of suggestion.
I was puzzled at his changed demeanour, but I would not show myself at a loss. Still less would I apologize, or suffer any pretence of friendliness between himself and me.
“I am sure you may,” said I pleasantly. And I think the reply a prudent one.
Yvonne smiled—I just caught the smile; but the abbé turned on his heel.
“I withdraw my admonition,” he said to De Lamourie smoothly, “and leave your case in the hands of this gentleman, your good friend. I wish you a swift conversion—or a long repentance.” And with a glance at me which I liked not, but could by no means interpret, he was gone.
The room grew straightway the brighter for his going.