"Bah!" said Athos. "It was scarcely worth while disturbing ourselves for a mere handful of rascals armed with pickaxes, hoes, and shovels. Grimaud had only got to make them a sign to return whence they came, and I am sure they would have left us in peace."
"I doubt it," said D'Artagnan, "for they are advancing steadily. And besides the sappers, there are four soldiers and a brigadier, all armed with muskets."
"It is only because they have not seen us," replied Athos.
"Upon my honor," cried Aramis, "I feel quite ashamed to fire on poor devils like that."
"False priest!" exclaimed Porthos, "to have pity on heretics."
"Aramis is right," said Athos. "I will warn them."
"What on earth are you doing?" said D'Artagnan. "You will get yourself shot, my good fellow."
But Athos paid no attention to this remark, and mounting the breach, his hat in one hand and his musket in the other, he addressed the troop, who were so astonished at this unexpected apparition that they halted about fifty paces distant. "Gentlemen," he said, bowing courteously as he spoke, "I am at this moment breakfasting with some friends in the shelter of this bastion. As you know, there is nothing so unpleasant as to be disturbed during your meals; therefore we should be greatly obliged if you would postpone any business you may have here, till we have finished, or else call again. Unless, indeed, you have the happy inspiration to quit the side of rebellion, and to drink, with us, to the health of the King of France."
"Do take care, Athos!" exclaimed D'Artagnan; "don't you see they are aiming at you?"
"Oh, yes, of course," said Athos; "but they are only civilians, who don't know how to shoot; and they will never touch me."