"The room is above, Monsieur," the foremost said, in a matter-of-fact tone, and with a slight salutation. "After you, if you please," and he signed to him to return.
He was a burly man, grim and truculent in appearance, and his follower was like him. Tignonville hesitated, then turned and ascended. But as soon as he had reached the landing where they could pass him, he turned again.
"I have made a mistake, I think," he said. "I have entered the wrong house."
"Are you for the house next the 'Golden Maid,' Monsieur?"
"Yes."
"Rue Cinq Diamants, Quarter of the Boucherie?"
"Yes."
"No mistake then," the stout man replied firmly. "You are early, that is all. You have arms, I see. Maillard!"--to the person whose voice Tignonville had heard at the head of the stairs--"A white sleeve, and a cross for Monsieur's hat, and his name on the register. Come, make a beginning! Make a beginning, man."
"To be sure, Monsieur. All is ready."
"Then lose no time, I say. Here are others, also early in the good cause. Gentlemen, welcome! Welcome all who are for the true faith! Death to the heretics! 'Kill, and no quarter!' is the word to-night!"