"Listen, marquis," said the Comte de Bauvan, in a whisper. "Rifoel has
really, on my word, told the truth. You are sure, yourself, to have
the ear of the king, while the rest of us only see him at a distance
and from time to time. I will own to you that if you do not give me
your word as a gentleman that I shall, in due course of time, obtain
the place of Master of Woods and Waters in France, the devil take me
if I will risk my neck any longer. To conquer Normandy for the king is
not an easy matter, and I demand the Order for it. But," he added,
coloring, "there's time enough to think of that. God forbid that I
should imitate these poor mercenaries and harass you. Speak to the
king for me, and that's enough."
Each of the chiefs found means to let the marquis know, in a more or
less ingenious manner, the exaggerated price they set upon their
services. One modestly demanded the governorship of Brittany; another
a barony; this one a promotion; that one a command; and all wanted
pensions.
"Well, baron," said the marquis to Monsieur du Guenic, "don't you want
anything?"
"These gentlemen have left me nothing but the crown of France,
marquis, but I might manage to put up with that--"
"Gentlemen!" cried the Abbe Gudin, in a loud voice, "remember that if
you are too eager you will spoil everything in the day of victory.
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