Baudelot’s first question was:
“Gentlemen, did you enter the pigeon-house?”
“Yes,” was the answer. “That’s where we began, Captain. Neither you nor the pigeons will find it again. The pigeon-house is torn down.”
“Then,” said Baudelot, drawing his sword, “I am released from my word. Thanks, my brave fellows!”
Then he took off his hat.
“Madame,” he said very gently, “receive the humble gratitude of the captive.”
He asked for a carriage.
“One is already harnessed, Captain,” said one of his soldiers. “The owner of the house tells us it was to take you to Nantes.”
Just then Baudelot noticed Hamelin bound with the fetters he himself had worn.
“Service for service, Captain,” he said; “only, instead of untying your cords, allow me to cut them. No one shall wear them again.”