De Busigny, the dragoon, the Swiss, and their
silent companion forming a group apart.
silent companion forming a group apart.
Warner - World's Best Literature - v09 - Dra to Eme
Look at Aramis, now: mildness and grace embodied;
and did anybody ever dream of calling Aramis a coward ? No
indeed, and from this instant I will try to model myself after
him. And luckily, here he is. ”
D'Artagnan, walking and soliloquizing, had come within a
few steps of the Aiguillon House, and in front of it saw Aramis
chatting gayly with three of the King's Guards. Aramis also
saw D'Artagnan; but not having forgotten that it was in his
presence M. de Treville had got so angry in the morning, and as
a witness of the rebuke was not at all pleasant, he pretended
not to see him. D'Artagnan, on the other hand, full of his plans
of conciliation and politeness, approached the young man with a
profound bow accompanied by a most gracious smile. Aramis
bowed slightly but did not smile. Moreover, all four immediately
broke off their conversation.
D'Artagnan was not so dull as not to see he was not wanted;
but he was not yet used enough to social customs to know how
to extricate himself dexterously from his false position, which
his generally is who accosts people he is little acquainted with,
and mingles in a conversation which does not concern him. He
was mentally casting about for the least awkward manner of
retreat, when he noticed that Aramis had let his handkerchief
fall, and (doubtless by mistake) put his foot on it. This seemed
a favorable chance to repair his mistake of intrusion: he stooped
down, and with the most gracious air he could assume, drew the
handkerchief from under the foot in spite of the efforts made to
detain it, and holding it out to Aramis, said:-
“I believe, sir, this is a handkerchief you would be sorry to
lose ? »
## p. 4979 (#147) ###########################################
ALEXANDRE DUMAS, SENIOR
4979
The handkerchief was in truth richly embroidered, and had a
cornet and a coat of arms at one corner, Aramis blushed excess-
ively, and snatched rather than took the handkerchief.
“Ha! ha! ” exclaimed one of the guards, "will you go on
saying now, most discreet Aramis, that you are not on good
terms with Madame de Bois-Tracy, when that gracious lady does
you the favor of lending you her handkerchief ! »
Aramis darted at D'Artagnan one of those looks which tell a
man that he has made a mortal enemy; then assuming his mild
air he said:
“You are mistaken, gentlemen: this handkerchief is not mine,
and I cannot understand why this gentleman has taken it into
his head to offer it to me rather than to one of you.
And as a
proof of what I say, here is mine in my pocket. ”
So saying, he pulled out his handkerchief, which was also not
only a very dainty one, and of fine linen (though linen was then
costly), but was embroidered and without arms, bearing only a
single cipher, the owner's.
This time D'Artagnan saw his mistake; but Aramis's friends
were by no'means convinced, and one of them, addressing the
young musketeer with pretended gravity, said:-
“If things were as you make out, I should feel obliged, my
dear Aramis, to reclaim it myself; for as you very well know,
Bois-Tracy is an intimate friend of mine, and I cannot allow one
of his wife's belongings to be exhibited as a trophy. ”
“ You make the demand clumsily,” replied Aramis; "and
while I acknowledge the justice of your reclamation, I refuse it
on account of the form. ”
« The fact is,” D'Artagnan put in hesitatingly, “I did not
actually see the handkerchief fall from M. Aramis's pocket. He
had his foot on it, that's all, and I thought it was his. ”
« And you were deceived, my dear sir,” replied Aramis coldly,
very little obliged for the explanation; then turning to the guard
who had professed himself Bois-Tracy's friend — “Besides," he
went on, "I have reflected, my dear intimate friend of Bois-
Tracy, that I am not less devotedly his friend than you can pos-
sibly be, so that this handkerchief is quite as likely to have
fallen from your pocket as from mine! ”
«On my honor, no! ”
“You are about to swear on your honor, and I on my word;
and then it will be pretty evident that one of us will have lied.
## p. 4980 (#148) ###########################################
4980
ALEXANDRE DUMAS, SENIOR
Now here, Montaran, we will do better than that: let each take
a half. ”
a
" Perfectly fair,” cried the other two guardsmen; "the judg-
ment of Solomon! Aramis, you are certainly full of wisdom! ”
They burst into a loud laugh, and as may be supposed, the
incident bore no other fruit. In a minute or two the conversa-
tion stopped, and the three guards and the musketeer, after
heartily shaking hands, separated, the guards going one way
and Aramis another.
«Now is the time to make my peace with this gentleman,”
said D'Artagnan to himself, having stood on one side during all
the latter part of the conversation; and in this good spirit draw-
ing near to Aramis, who was going off without paying any
attention to him, he said:
«You will excuse me, I hope. ”
"Ah! ) interrupted Aramis, "permit me to observe to you,
sir, that you have not acted in this affair as man of good
breeding ought. ”
“What! » cried D'Artagnan, do you suppose ”
"I suppose that you are not a fool, and that you knew very
well, even though you come from Gascony, that people do not
stand on handkerchiefs for nothing. What the devil! Paris is
not paved with linen!
"Sir, you do wrong in trying to humiliate me,” said D'Ar-
tagnan, in whom his native pugnacity began to speak louder
than his peaceful resolutions. "I come from Gascony, it is true;
and since you know it, there is no need to tell you that Gascons
are not very patient, so that when they have asked pardon once,
even for a folly, they think they have done at least as much
again as they ought to have done. ”
“Sir, what I say to you about this matter,” said Aramis, "is
not for the sake of hunting a quarrel. Thank Heaven, I am not
a swash buckler, and being a musketeer only for a while, I only
fight when I am forced to do so, and always with great reluct-
ance; but this time the affair is serious, for here is a lady com-
promised by you. ”
By us, you mean,” cried D'Artagnan.
“Why did you give me back the handkerchief so awkwardly?
"Why did you let it fall so awkwardly? »
“I have said that the handkerchief did not fall from my
pocket. ”
>>
## p. 4981 (#149) ###########################################
ALEXANDRE DUMAS, SENIOR
4981
« Well, by saying that you have told two lies, sir; for I saw
it fall. ”
«Oh ho! you take it up that way, do you, Master Gascon ?
Well, I will teach you how to behave yourself. ”
"And I will send you back to your pulpit, Master Priest.
Draw, if you please, and instantly - »
"Not so, if you please, my good friend; not here, at least.
Do you not see that we are opposite Aiguillon House, full of
the Cardinal's creatures ? How do I know that it is not his Emi-
nence who has honored you with the commission to bring him
in my head ? Now, I entertain an absurd partiality for my head,
it seems to suit my shoulders so finely. I have no objection to
killing you, you may be sure, but quietly, in a snug, distant
spot, where you will not be able to boast of your death to any.
body. ”
"I agree, but don't be too confident; and take away your
handkerchief – whether it belongs to you or somebody else, per-
haps you may stand in need of it to bandage up a wound.
As a
Gascon, I don't put off engagements for prudence's sake. ”
Prudence is a virtue useless enough to musketeers, I know,
but indispensable to churchmen; and as I am only a temporary
musketeer, I hold it best to be prudent. At two o'clock I shall
have the honor of expecting you at Treville's. There I will
point out the best place and time to you. ”
The two bowed and separated. Aramis went up the street
which led to the Luxembourg; while D'Artagnan, seeing that the
appointed hour was coming near, took the road to the Carmes-
Deschaux, saying to himself, "I certainly cannot hope to come
out of these scrapes alive; but if I am doomed to be killed, it
will be by a royal musketeer. ”
THE DEFENSE OF THE BASTION SAINT-GERVAIS
From The Three Musketeers)
W" .
'
together. Athos was thinking deeply, Porthos was twirl-
ing his mustache, and Aramis was reading his prayers
out of a beautiful little book bound in blue velvet.
"My faith, gentlemen! ” exclaimed he, “I hope that what you
have to tell me is very important, or I shall owe you a grudge
## p. 4982 (#150) ###########################################
4982
ALEXANDRE DUMAS, SENIOR
for dragging me here, out of my bed, after a whole night passed
in taking and dismantling a bastion! Ah, it is a thousand pities
you were not there! It was warm work ! »
“We were somewhere else, where it was not very cold either,”
replied Porthos, giving his mustache another twist.
“Aramis,” said Athos, "didn't you breakfast the other day at
Parpaillot's? )
« Yes. ”
“Were you comfortable there? ”
“No, I did not like it at all. It was a fast day, and they had
nothing but meat. ”
What, no fish to be had in a seaport town? ”
“They say,” replied Aramis, taking up his book, “that they
have all taken to the deep sea, since the Cardinal built that
dike. ”
“That is not what I was asking,” replied Athos. "Were you
quite free and at your ease, or did any one pay attention to
you ? »
"Oh, nobody paid any attention to me.
And if that is your
object, Athos, Parpaillot's will suit us very well. ”
“Let us go at once then,” said Athos, “for these walls are
like paper. ”
On the way they met Grimaud [the valet of Athos], whom
Athos beckoned silently to follow them. Grimaud, according to
his custom, obeyed without a word. The poor fellow had almost
forgotten how to speak!
It did not take them long to reach Parpaillot's, but unluckily
the hour was ill chosen for a private conference. The réveille
had just been sounded, and the sleepy soldiers were all pouring
into the inn. This state of matters delighted the landlord, but
was hardly so agreeable to the four friends, who merely nodded
sulkily at the salutations of the crowd.
“If we are not careful,” said Athos, rousing himself, “we
shall find ourselves landed in some quarrel, which would be
highly inconvenient at this moment. D'Artagnan, tell us about
your night's work, and then we will tell you about ours. ”
“Ah yes,” said a light-horse soldier, who was slowly sipping
a glass of brandy, you were down at the trenches last night, I
think, and I believe you had a brush with the Rochellois. ”
D'Artagnan looked at Athos, to see if he ought to answer or
not.
## p. 4983 (#151) ###########################################
ALEXANDRE DUMAS, SENIOR
4983
“My dear fellow," replied Athos, "I don't think you are
aware that M. De Busigny did you the honor to address you!
Since these gentlemen are interested in last night's affair, tell
them about it. ”
“Is it true that you captured a bastion ? ” asked a Swiss, who
had filled his beer up with rum.
“Yes, monsieur,” replied D'Artagnan, “we had that honor.
We also introduced a barrel of powder into a corner, which in
exploding opened a really beautiful breach; and as the bastion
was not built yesterday, the whole building was severely shaken. ”
«What bastion was it ? ” said a dragoon, who was holding a
goose on the point of his sword, and cooking it at the fire.
«The Bastion Saint-Gervais,” replied D'Artagnan; "the Rochel-
lois behind it were always annoying our men. ”
"And there was a good deal of sharp-shooting ? ”
"A good deal. We lost five men, and the Rochellois eight or
ten. »
But this morning," went on the light-horseman, “they will
probably send down some pioneers to rebuild the bastion. ”
“Yes, probably,” answered D'Artagnan.
« Gentlemen,” broke in Athos, “I want to propose a bet. ”
«What bet? ” asked the light-horseman.
“I bet you, M. De Busigny, that I and my three friends
Porthos, Aramis, and D'Artagnan, will breakfast in the Bastion
Saint-Gervais, and will hold it an hour by the clock, against all
comers. ”
Porthos and Aramis looked at each other. They were begin-
ning to understand what Athos had in his head.
"But,” objected D'Artagnan, leaning over to whisper to
Athos, we shall be killed without a chance of escape. ”
“We shall be killed a great deal more certainly if we don't
go,” replied Athos.
"Ah! ” ejaculated Porthos, twirling his mustache, that is a
grand bet. ”
“I take it,” said M. De Busigny; let us fix the stakes. ”
“That is easily done,” replied Athos. « We are four and you
are four. The loser shall give the whole eight a dinner. ”
“Very well, let us agree to that,” said M. De Busigny and the
dragoon.
"Your breakfast is ready, gentlemen,” broke in the landlord
at this instant.
## p. 4984 (#152) ###########################################
4984
ALEXANDRE DUMAS, SENIOR
« Then bring it here," answered Athos.
The landlord obeyed, and Athos, making a sign to Grimaud,
pointed out a large basket standing in a corner, which he was to
fill with wine and food.
“But where are you going to eat it ? ” asked the landlord.
« What does that matter to you as long as you are paid ? »
replied Athos, throwing two pistoles on the table. Then, turning
to M. De Busigny, he observed: --
“Will you have the kindness, monsieur, to set your watch by
mine, or let me set mine by yours ? ”
«Certainly, monsieur,” said the light-horseman, drawing out
a beautiful watch incrusted with diamonds; "half-past seven. ”
«Five-and-twenty minutes to eight. So I am five minutes
faster than you;” and bowing to the rest of the company, the
four young men took the road to the Bastion Saint-Gervais,
followed by Grimaud carrying the basket. He had not the faint-
est idea where they were going, or what they were to do, but
Athos had given his orders, and he always obeyed without ques-
tioning
As long as they were within the camp, the four friends
remained silent; but once they had passed the wall of circumval-
lation, D'Artagnan, who was completely in the dark, thought it
was time to ask for an explanation.
"And now, my dear Athos,” said he, will you be good
enough to tell me where we are bound for ? »
Why, for the bastion, of course.
“And what are we to do when we get there ? ”
“I told you before. We are going to breakfast. ”
“But why didn't we do that at Parpaillot's ? »
“Because we had some important matters to discuss, and it
was impossible to talk for five minutes at that inn, with all those
people coming and going, and perpetually bowing and speaking
Here at least, "continued Athos, pointing to the bastion,
we shall not be interrupted. ”
" It seems to me,” said D'Artagnan, with the caution which
was as much his characteristic as his foolhardy courage, “it seems
to me that we might have found some secluded place among the
sand-hills on the sea-shore. ”
“Oh, somebody would have seen, and in a quarter of an hour
spies would have informed the Cardinal that we were holding
council. ”
to you.
## p. 4985 (#153) ###########################################
ALEXANDRE DUMAS, SENIOR
4985
« Yes,” said Aramis. «Athos is right. Animadvertuntur in
desertis.
“A desert would have done very well,” replied Porthos; “but
first we should have to find it. ”
« There is no desert where a bird cannot fly overhead, or a
fish jump out of the water, or a rabbit run out of his hole; and
bird, fish, and rabbit have all become spies of the Cardinal.
Much better to go on with our adventure, which we cannot now
give up without dishonor. We have made a bet, and a bet on the
spur of the moment; a bet of which I defy any one to guess
the true meaning. To win it, we must hold the bastion for an
hour. Either they will attack us, or they won't. If we are left
unmolested, we shall have plenty of time to talk without any
one overhearing us, for I will answer for the walls of this bas-
tion having no ears. If they try to dislodge us, we can talk all
the same, and in defending our position shall cover ourselves
with glory. You see that from every point of view we have the
whip hand. ”
“Yes,” said D'Artagnan, “but most certainly we shall attract
some stray bullet. ”
“My good fellow,” remarked Athos, “do you really think that
the enemy's bullets are those we have most cause to fear? ”
"But surely, if we were embarking on such an expedition, we
ought to have brought our muskets ? »
“Porthos, you are a goose! What would be the good of bur-
dening ourselves with anything so useless ? »
"I should hardly think that a heavy musket, a dozen car-
tridges, and a powder flask would be useless when one is in the
presence of an enemy. ”
“Dear me! ” said Athos, "didn't you hear what D'Artagnan
was saying? ”
“What did D'Artagnan say? " asked Porthos.
"He said that during last night's attack eight or ten French-
men were killed, and as many Rochellois. ”
« Well ? »
“Well, hasn't everybody been too busy ever since to think of
stripping the dead bodies ? »
« What then ? »
“What then? Why, we shall find their muskets, their flasks,
and their cartridges, all waiting for us; and instead of four mus-
kets and twelve charges, there will be fifteen pieces and a hun-
dred bullets. ”
## p. 4986 (#154) ###########################################
4986
ALEXANDRE DUMAS, SENIOR
((
“O Athos,” exclaimed Aramis, you are a great man! ”
Porthos nodded approval; only D'Artagnan did not seem to
be convinced; and Grimaud appeared to have his doubts, for
seeing they were still making for the bastion (which up to that
moment he had declined to believe), he plucked his master by
the coat.
Where are we going ? ” he asked by a sign.
Athos pointed out the bastion.
"But," objected Grimaud, speaking always in pantomime,
we shall leave our bodies there. ”
Athos raised his hands and eyes to heaven. Grimaud placed
his basket on the ground and sat down, shaking his head.
Athos took a pistol from his belt, looked to see if it was well
primed, cocked it, and approached the barrel to Grimaud's ear.
Grimaud was on his legs again, as if by magic. Athos then
signed to him to take up the basket and go on.
Grimaud obeyed.
When they reached the bastion, the four friends turned round
and beheld over three hundred soldiers assembled at the gate of
the camp; M.
De Busigny, the dragoon, the Swiss, and their
silent companion forming a group apart.
Athos removed his hat, put it on the edge of his sword, and
waved it in the air.
The spectators returned his salute and gave a great hurrah,
which penetrated to their ears even at that distance. Then all
four disappeared inside the bastion, where Grimaud had preceded
them.
THE CONSULTATION OF THE MUSKETEERS
From The Three Musketeers)
AS
s Athos had assumed, the bastion was only occupied by a
dozen dead men, French and Rochellois.
"Gentlemen,” said Athos, to whom the command of the
expedition naturally fell, “while Grimaud lays out breakfast, we
will begin by picking up the muskets and cartridges, and of
course there is nothing in this employment to prevent our talking.
Our friends here,” he added, pointing to the dead, "will pay no
attention to us. ”
“But after we have made sure they have nothing in their
pockets, we had better throw them into the trench,” said Porthos,
## p. 4987 (#155) ###########################################
ALEXANDRE DUMAS, SENIOR
4987
can
“Yes," replied Athos, that is Grimaud's business. ”
« Well then,” said D'Artagnan, “let Grimaud search them,
and after he has done so, throw them over the wall. ”
“He shall do nothing of the sort,” replied Athos; "we may
find them useful yet. ”
“You are going mad, my good fellow! Of what use
these dead men be ? »
"Don't judge hastily, say the gospel and the Cardinal,” replied
Athos. “How many guns have we got? ”
"Twelve,” said Aramis.
“How many charges ? »
“A hundred. ”
“That will do. Now let us load. ”
They set to work; and as they finished loading the last gun,
Grimaud made a sign that breakfast was ready.
By a gesture Athos replied that they were ready also, ard
then pointed out a pepper-box turret, where Grimaud was to
keep watch. To help him pass the time Athos allowed him to
take some bread, two cutlets, and a bottle of wine.
Now,” said D'Artagnan, that there is no chance of our
being overheard, I hope you will tell us your secret. ”
“I trust, gentlemen, to give you both pleasure and glory at
once," replied Athos. "I have made you take a charming walk,
and now here is an excellent breakfast; while below, as you may
see through the loop-holes, are five hundred persons, who con-
sider us to either lunatics or heroes,— two classes of idiots
who have much in common.
«What is the matter, Grimaud ? As the circumstances are
grave, I will allow you to speak, but be short, I beg. What
is it ? »
"A troop. ”
“How many ? ”.
“Twenty ? ”
« What are they? ”
“Sixteen pioneers, four soldiers. ”
« How far off ? »
«Five hundred paces. ”
Then we have just time to finish this fowl and drink your
health, D'Artagnan. ”
A few minutes later the troop hove in sight, marching along
a narrow trench that connected the bastion and the town.
))
## p. 4988 (#156) ###########################################
4988
ALEXANDRE DUMAS, SENIOR
“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 stead.
ily. And besides the sappers, there are four soldiers and a briga-
dier, 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. « Gentle-
men,” he said, bowing courteously as he spoke, “I am at this
moment breakfasting with some friends in the shelter of this bas-
tion. As you know, there is nothing so unpleasant as to be dis-
turbed 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. ”
He had scarcely uttered the words when four muskets fired
simultaneously. The balls fell round Athos, but not one grazed
him.
Four muskets immediately answered, but these were better
directed than the others. Three of the soldiers fell dead, and
one of the sappers was wounded.
"Grimaud, another musket,” said Athos, who was still on
the breach. Grimaud obeyed; a second volley was fired; the
brigadier and two pioneers fell dead, and the rest of the troop
took flight.
## p. 4989 (#157) ###########################################
ALEXANDRE DUMAS, SENIOR
4989
.
« Now we must make a sortie,” cried Athos; and the four
comrades dashed out of the fort, picked up the muskets belong-
ing to the dead soldiers, and retreated to the bastion, carrying
the trophies of their victory.
“To arms! ” called Grimaud.
The young men jumped up and ran for their muskets.
This time the advancing troop was composed of twenty or
twenty-five men, but they were no longer sappers, but soldiers
of the garrison.
“Hadn't we better return to the camp ? ” said Porthos. « The
fight is not equal at all. ”
"Impossible, for three reasons,” said Athos. First, because
we haven't finished breakfast; second, because we have several
important things to discuss; and third, because there are still ten
minutes before the hour is up. "
"Well, anyway,” remarked Aramis, “we had better have some
plan of campaign. ”
" It is very simple,” replied Athos. « The moment the enemy
is within reach, we fire. If they still come on, we fire again,
and go on firing as long as our guns are loaded. If any of
them are left, and they try to carry the place by assault, we
will let them get well into the ditch, and then drop on their
heads a piece of the wall, that only keeps poised by a kind of
miracle. ”
"Bravo, cried Porthos. “Athos, you were born to be a gen-
eral; and the Cardinal, who thinks himself a great commander,
is not to be compared to you. ”
“Gentlemen,” replied Athos, (remember, one thing at a time.
Cover your man well. ”
“I have mine,” said D'Artagnan.
"And I,” said Porthos and Aramis.
« Then fire;” and as Athos gave the word, the muskets rang
out and four men fell. Then the drum beat, and the little army
advanced to the charge, while all the while the fire was kept up,
irregularly, but with a sure aim. The Rochellois however did
not flinch, but came on steadily.
When they reached the foot of the bastion, the enemy still
numbered twelve or fifteen. A sharp fire received them, but
they never faltered, and leaping the trench, prepared to scale the
breach.
Now, comrades! » cried Athos. “Let us make an end of
them. To the wall! »
(
## p. 4990 (#158) ###########################################
4990
ALEXANDRE DUMAS, SENIOR
And all four, aided by Grimaud, began to push with their
guns a huge block of wall, which swayed as if with the wind,
and then rolled slowly down into the trench. A horrible cry
was heard, a cloud of dust mounted upwards; and all was silent.
“Have we crushed them all, do you think ? ” asked Athos.
«It looks like it,” answered D'Artagnan.
"No," said Porthos, "for two or three are limping off. ”
Athos looked at his watch.
"Gentlemen,” he said, "an hour has elapsed since we came
here, and we have won our bet. ”
“What is going on in the town ? ” asked Athos.
« It is a call to arms,
They listened, and the sound of a drum reached their ears.
“They must be sending us an entire regiment,” said Athos.
“You don't mean to fight a whole regiment ? ” said Porthos.
“Why not ? ” asked the musketeer. "If we had only had the
sense to bring another dozen bottles, I could make head against
an army! ”
As I live, the drum is coming nearer,” said D'Artagnan.
“Let it,” replied Athos. “It takes a quarter of an hour to
get from here to the town, so it takes a quarter of an hour to
get from the town here. That is more than enough time for us
to arrange our plans. If we leave this, we shall never find such
a good position.
But I must first give Grimaud his
orders; and Athos made a sign to his servant.
Grimaud,” said he, pointing to the dead who were lying on
the bastion, you will take these gentlemen and prop them up
against the wall, and put their hats on their heads and their guns
in their hands. "
“Great man! ” ejaculated D'Artagnan; "I begin to see. '
« You do ? » asked Porthos.
"Do you understand, Grimaud ? ” said Aramis.
Grimaud nodded.
“Then we are all right,” said Athos.
«On guard! ” cried D'Artagnan. Look at those red and
black points moving down there! A regiment, did you call it,
Athos ? — it is a perfect army! ”
“My word, yes! ” said Athos, “there they come! How cunning
to beat neither drums nor trumpets. Are you ready, Grimaud ? ”
Grimaud silently nodded, and showed them a dozen dead men,
arranged skillfully in various attitudes, some porting arms, some
taking aim, others drawing their swords.
(
## p. 4991 (#159) ###########################################
ALEXANDRE DUMAS, SENIOR
4991
« Well done! ” exclaimed Athos, “it does honor to your imagi-
nation. ”
“If it is all the same to you,” said Porthos, “I should like to
understand what is going on. ”
«Let us get away first,” replied D'Artagnan, and you will
understand after. ”
"One moinent, please! Give Grimaud time to clear away the
breakfast. ”
“Ah! ” said Aramis; "the red and black specks are becoming
more distinct, and I agree with D'Artagnan that we have no time
to lose before we regain the camp. ”
“Very well,” rejoined Athos, “I have nothing to say against
retreating. The wager was for an hour, and we have been here
an hour and a half. Let us be off at once. ”
The four comrades went out at the back, following Grimaud,
who had already departed with the basket.
"Oh! ” cried Athos, stopping suddenly, “what the devil is to
be done ? »
"Has anything been forgotten ? ” asked Aramis.
“Our flag, man, our flag! We can't leave our flag in the
enemy's hands, if it is nothing but a napkin. ” And Athos dashed
again into the bastion, and bore away the flag unhurt, amid a
volley of balls from the Rochellois.
He waved his flag, while turning his back on the troops of
the town, and saluting those of the camp. From both sides arose
great cries, of anger on the one hand and enthusiasm on the
other, and the napkin, pierced with three bullet-holes, was in
truth transformed into a flag. “Come down, come down! they
shouted from the camp.
Athos came down, and his friends, who had awaited him
anxiously, received him with joy.
"Be quick, Athos,” said D'Artagnan; “now that we have got
everything but money, it would be stupid to get killed. ”
But Athos would not hurry himself, and they had to keep
pace with him.
By this time Grimaud and his basket were well beyond bullet
range, while in the distance the sounds of rapid firing might be
heard.
“What are they doing? ” asked Porthos; «what are they
firing at? ”
“At our dead men,” replied Athos.
## p. 4992 (#160) ###########################################
4992
ALEXANDRE DUMAS, SENIOR
"But they don't fire back. ”
“Exactly so; therefore the enemy will come to the conclusion
that there is an ambuscade. They will hold a council, and send
an envoy with a flag of truce, and when they at last find out the
joke, we shall be out of reach. So it is no use getting apoplexy
by racing. ”
“Oh, I understand,” said Porthos, full of astonishment.
« That is a mercy! ” replied Athos, shrugging his shoulders, as
they approached the camp, which was watching their progress in
a ferment of admiration.
This time a new fusillade was begun, and the balls whistled
close to the heads of the four victors and fell about their ears.
The Rochellois had entered the bastion.
“What bad shooting! ” said D'Artagnan. "How many was it
we killed ? Twelve ? ”
« Twelve or fifteen. ”
“And how many did we crush ? ”
"Eight or ten. ”
“And not a scratch to show for it. ”
“Ah, what is that on your hand, D'Artagnan ? It looks to me
like blood. ”
« It's nothing,” replied D'Artagnan.
"A spent ball ? ”
“Not even that. ”
“But what is it, then ? ” As we have said, the silent and reso-
lute Athos loved D'Artagnan like his own son, and showed every
now and then all the anxiety of a father.
« The skin is rubbed off, that is all,” said D'Artagnan.
and did anybody ever dream of calling Aramis a coward ? No
indeed, and from this instant I will try to model myself after
him. And luckily, here he is. ”
D'Artagnan, walking and soliloquizing, had come within a
few steps of the Aiguillon House, and in front of it saw Aramis
chatting gayly with three of the King's Guards. Aramis also
saw D'Artagnan; but not having forgotten that it was in his
presence M. de Treville had got so angry in the morning, and as
a witness of the rebuke was not at all pleasant, he pretended
not to see him. D'Artagnan, on the other hand, full of his plans
of conciliation and politeness, approached the young man with a
profound bow accompanied by a most gracious smile. Aramis
bowed slightly but did not smile. Moreover, all four immediately
broke off their conversation.
D'Artagnan was not so dull as not to see he was not wanted;
but he was not yet used enough to social customs to know how
to extricate himself dexterously from his false position, which
his generally is who accosts people he is little acquainted with,
and mingles in a conversation which does not concern him. He
was mentally casting about for the least awkward manner of
retreat, when he noticed that Aramis had let his handkerchief
fall, and (doubtless by mistake) put his foot on it. This seemed
a favorable chance to repair his mistake of intrusion: he stooped
down, and with the most gracious air he could assume, drew the
handkerchief from under the foot in spite of the efforts made to
detain it, and holding it out to Aramis, said:-
“I believe, sir, this is a handkerchief you would be sorry to
lose ? »
## p. 4979 (#147) ###########################################
ALEXANDRE DUMAS, SENIOR
4979
The handkerchief was in truth richly embroidered, and had a
cornet and a coat of arms at one corner, Aramis blushed excess-
ively, and snatched rather than took the handkerchief.
“Ha! ha! ” exclaimed one of the guards, "will you go on
saying now, most discreet Aramis, that you are not on good
terms with Madame de Bois-Tracy, when that gracious lady does
you the favor of lending you her handkerchief ! »
Aramis darted at D'Artagnan one of those looks which tell a
man that he has made a mortal enemy; then assuming his mild
air he said:
“You are mistaken, gentlemen: this handkerchief is not mine,
and I cannot understand why this gentleman has taken it into
his head to offer it to me rather than to one of you.
And as a
proof of what I say, here is mine in my pocket. ”
So saying, he pulled out his handkerchief, which was also not
only a very dainty one, and of fine linen (though linen was then
costly), but was embroidered and without arms, bearing only a
single cipher, the owner's.
This time D'Artagnan saw his mistake; but Aramis's friends
were by no'means convinced, and one of them, addressing the
young musketeer with pretended gravity, said:-
“If things were as you make out, I should feel obliged, my
dear Aramis, to reclaim it myself; for as you very well know,
Bois-Tracy is an intimate friend of mine, and I cannot allow one
of his wife's belongings to be exhibited as a trophy. ”
“ You make the demand clumsily,” replied Aramis; "and
while I acknowledge the justice of your reclamation, I refuse it
on account of the form. ”
« The fact is,” D'Artagnan put in hesitatingly, “I did not
actually see the handkerchief fall from M. Aramis's pocket. He
had his foot on it, that's all, and I thought it was his. ”
« And you were deceived, my dear sir,” replied Aramis coldly,
very little obliged for the explanation; then turning to the guard
who had professed himself Bois-Tracy's friend — “Besides," he
went on, "I have reflected, my dear intimate friend of Bois-
Tracy, that I am not less devotedly his friend than you can pos-
sibly be, so that this handkerchief is quite as likely to have
fallen from your pocket as from mine! ”
«On my honor, no! ”
“You are about to swear on your honor, and I on my word;
and then it will be pretty evident that one of us will have lied.
## p. 4980 (#148) ###########################################
4980
ALEXANDRE DUMAS, SENIOR
Now here, Montaran, we will do better than that: let each take
a half. ”
a
" Perfectly fair,” cried the other two guardsmen; "the judg-
ment of Solomon! Aramis, you are certainly full of wisdom! ”
They burst into a loud laugh, and as may be supposed, the
incident bore no other fruit. In a minute or two the conversa-
tion stopped, and the three guards and the musketeer, after
heartily shaking hands, separated, the guards going one way
and Aramis another.
«Now is the time to make my peace with this gentleman,”
said D'Artagnan to himself, having stood on one side during all
the latter part of the conversation; and in this good spirit draw-
ing near to Aramis, who was going off without paying any
attention to him, he said:
«You will excuse me, I hope. ”
"Ah! ) interrupted Aramis, "permit me to observe to you,
sir, that you have not acted in this affair as man of good
breeding ought. ”
“What! » cried D'Artagnan, do you suppose ”
"I suppose that you are not a fool, and that you knew very
well, even though you come from Gascony, that people do not
stand on handkerchiefs for nothing. What the devil! Paris is
not paved with linen!
"Sir, you do wrong in trying to humiliate me,” said D'Ar-
tagnan, in whom his native pugnacity began to speak louder
than his peaceful resolutions. "I come from Gascony, it is true;
and since you know it, there is no need to tell you that Gascons
are not very patient, so that when they have asked pardon once,
even for a folly, they think they have done at least as much
again as they ought to have done. ”
“Sir, what I say to you about this matter,” said Aramis, "is
not for the sake of hunting a quarrel. Thank Heaven, I am not
a swash buckler, and being a musketeer only for a while, I only
fight when I am forced to do so, and always with great reluct-
ance; but this time the affair is serious, for here is a lady com-
promised by you. ”
By us, you mean,” cried D'Artagnan.
“Why did you give me back the handkerchief so awkwardly?
"Why did you let it fall so awkwardly? »
“I have said that the handkerchief did not fall from my
pocket. ”
>>
## p. 4981 (#149) ###########################################
ALEXANDRE DUMAS, SENIOR
4981
« Well, by saying that you have told two lies, sir; for I saw
it fall. ”
«Oh ho! you take it up that way, do you, Master Gascon ?
Well, I will teach you how to behave yourself. ”
"And I will send you back to your pulpit, Master Priest.
Draw, if you please, and instantly - »
"Not so, if you please, my good friend; not here, at least.
Do you not see that we are opposite Aiguillon House, full of
the Cardinal's creatures ? How do I know that it is not his Emi-
nence who has honored you with the commission to bring him
in my head ? Now, I entertain an absurd partiality for my head,
it seems to suit my shoulders so finely. I have no objection to
killing you, you may be sure, but quietly, in a snug, distant
spot, where you will not be able to boast of your death to any.
body. ”
"I agree, but don't be too confident; and take away your
handkerchief – whether it belongs to you or somebody else, per-
haps you may stand in need of it to bandage up a wound.
As a
Gascon, I don't put off engagements for prudence's sake. ”
Prudence is a virtue useless enough to musketeers, I know,
but indispensable to churchmen; and as I am only a temporary
musketeer, I hold it best to be prudent. At two o'clock I shall
have the honor of expecting you at Treville's. There I will
point out the best place and time to you. ”
The two bowed and separated. Aramis went up the street
which led to the Luxembourg; while D'Artagnan, seeing that the
appointed hour was coming near, took the road to the Carmes-
Deschaux, saying to himself, "I certainly cannot hope to come
out of these scrapes alive; but if I am doomed to be killed, it
will be by a royal musketeer. ”
THE DEFENSE OF THE BASTION SAINT-GERVAIS
From The Three Musketeers)
W" .
'
together. Athos was thinking deeply, Porthos was twirl-
ing his mustache, and Aramis was reading his prayers
out of a beautiful little book bound in blue velvet.
"My faith, gentlemen! ” exclaimed he, “I hope that what you
have to tell me is very important, or I shall owe you a grudge
## p. 4982 (#150) ###########################################
4982
ALEXANDRE DUMAS, SENIOR
for dragging me here, out of my bed, after a whole night passed
in taking and dismantling a bastion! Ah, it is a thousand pities
you were not there! It was warm work ! »
“We were somewhere else, where it was not very cold either,”
replied Porthos, giving his mustache another twist.
“Aramis,” said Athos, "didn't you breakfast the other day at
Parpaillot's? )
« Yes. ”
“Were you comfortable there? ”
“No, I did not like it at all. It was a fast day, and they had
nothing but meat. ”
What, no fish to be had in a seaport town? ”
“They say,” replied Aramis, taking up his book, “that they
have all taken to the deep sea, since the Cardinal built that
dike. ”
“That is not what I was asking,” replied Athos. "Were you
quite free and at your ease, or did any one pay attention to
you ? »
"Oh, nobody paid any attention to me.
And if that is your
object, Athos, Parpaillot's will suit us very well. ”
“Let us go at once then,” said Athos, “for these walls are
like paper. ”
On the way they met Grimaud [the valet of Athos], whom
Athos beckoned silently to follow them. Grimaud, according to
his custom, obeyed without a word. The poor fellow had almost
forgotten how to speak!
It did not take them long to reach Parpaillot's, but unluckily
the hour was ill chosen for a private conference. The réveille
had just been sounded, and the sleepy soldiers were all pouring
into the inn. This state of matters delighted the landlord, but
was hardly so agreeable to the four friends, who merely nodded
sulkily at the salutations of the crowd.
“If we are not careful,” said Athos, rousing himself, “we
shall find ourselves landed in some quarrel, which would be
highly inconvenient at this moment. D'Artagnan, tell us about
your night's work, and then we will tell you about ours. ”
“Ah yes,” said a light-horse soldier, who was slowly sipping
a glass of brandy, you were down at the trenches last night, I
think, and I believe you had a brush with the Rochellois. ”
D'Artagnan looked at Athos, to see if he ought to answer or
not.
## p. 4983 (#151) ###########################################
ALEXANDRE DUMAS, SENIOR
4983
“My dear fellow," replied Athos, "I don't think you are
aware that M. De Busigny did you the honor to address you!
Since these gentlemen are interested in last night's affair, tell
them about it. ”
“Is it true that you captured a bastion ? ” asked a Swiss, who
had filled his beer up with rum.
“Yes, monsieur,” replied D'Artagnan, “we had that honor.
We also introduced a barrel of powder into a corner, which in
exploding opened a really beautiful breach; and as the bastion
was not built yesterday, the whole building was severely shaken. ”
«What bastion was it ? ” said a dragoon, who was holding a
goose on the point of his sword, and cooking it at the fire.
«The Bastion Saint-Gervais,” replied D'Artagnan; "the Rochel-
lois behind it were always annoying our men. ”
"And there was a good deal of sharp-shooting ? ”
"A good deal. We lost five men, and the Rochellois eight or
ten. »
But this morning," went on the light-horseman, “they will
probably send down some pioneers to rebuild the bastion. ”
“Yes, probably,” answered D'Artagnan.
« Gentlemen,” broke in Athos, “I want to propose a bet. ”
«What bet? ” asked the light-horseman.
“I bet you, M. De Busigny, that I and my three friends
Porthos, Aramis, and D'Artagnan, will breakfast in the Bastion
Saint-Gervais, and will hold it an hour by the clock, against all
comers. ”
Porthos and Aramis looked at each other. They were begin-
ning to understand what Athos had in his head.
"But,” objected D'Artagnan, leaning over to whisper to
Athos, we shall be killed without a chance of escape. ”
“We shall be killed a great deal more certainly if we don't
go,” replied Athos.
"Ah! ” ejaculated Porthos, twirling his mustache, that is a
grand bet. ”
“I take it,” said M. De Busigny; let us fix the stakes. ”
“That is easily done,” replied Athos. « We are four and you
are four. The loser shall give the whole eight a dinner. ”
“Very well, let us agree to that,” said M. De Busigny and the
dragoon.
"Your breakfast is ready, gentlemen,” broke in the landlord
at this instant.
## p. 4984 (#152) ###########################################
4984
ALEXANDRE DUMAS, SENIOR
« Then bring it here," answered Athos.
The landlord obeyed, and Athos, making a sign to Grimaud,
pointed out a large basket standing in a corner, which he was to
fill with wine and food.
“But where are you going to eat it ? ” asked the landlord.
« What does that matter to you as long as you are paid ? »
replied Athos, throwing two pistoles on the table. Then, turning
to M. De Busigny, he observed: --
“Will you have the kindness, monsieur, to set your watch by
mine, or let me set mine by yours ? ”
«Certainly, monsieur,” said the light-horseman, drawing out
a beautiful watch incrusted with diamonds; "half-past seven. ”
«Five-and-twenty minutes to eight. So I am five minutes
faster than you;” and bowing to the rest of the company, the
four young men took the road to the Bastion Saint-Gervais,
followed by Grimaud carrying the basket. He had not the faint-
est idea where they were going, or what they were to do, but
Athos had given his orders, and he always obeyed without ques-
tioning
As long as they were within the camp, the four friends
remained silent; but once they had passed the wall of circumval-
lation, D'Artagnan, who was completely in the dark, thought it
was time to ask for an explanation.
"And now, my dear Athos,” said he, will you be good
enough to tell me where we are bound for ? »
Why, for the bastion, of course.
“And what are we to do when we get there ? ”
“I told you before. We are going to breakfast. ”
“But why didn't we do that at Parpaillot's ? »
“Because we had some important matters to discuss, and it
was impossible to talk for five minutes at that inn, with all those
people coming and going, and perpetually bowing and speaking
Here at least, "continued Athos, pointing to the bastion,
we shall not be interrupted. ”
" It seems to me,” said D'Artagnan, with the caution which
was as much his characteristic as his foolhardy courage, “it seems
to me that we might have found some secluded place among the
sand-hills on the sea-shore. ”
“Oh, somebody would have seen, and in a quarter of an hour
spies would have informed the Cardinal that we were holding
council. ”
to you.
## p. 4985 (#153) ###########################################
ALEXANDRE DUMAS, SENIOR
4985
« Yes,” said Aramis. «Athos is right. Animadvertuntur in
desertis.
“A desert would have done very well,” replied Porthos; “but
first we should have to find it. ”
« There is no desert where a bird cannot fly overhead, or a
fish jump out of the water, or a rabbit run out of his hole; and
bird, fish, and rabbit have all become spies of the Cardinal.
Much better to go on with our adventure, which we cannot now
give up without dishonor. We have made a bet, and a bet on the
spur of the moment; a bet of which I defy any one to guess
the true meaning. To win it, we must hold the bastion for an
hour. Either they will attack us, or they won't. If we are left
unmolested, we shall have plenty of time to talk without any
one overhearing us, for I will answer for the walls of this bas-
tion having no ears. If they try to dislodge us, we can talk all
the same, and in defending our position shall cover ourselves
with glory. You see that from every point of view we have the
whip hand. ”
“Yes,” said D'Artagnan, “but most certainly we shall attract
some stray bullet. ”
“My good fellow,” remarked Athos, “do you really think that
the enemy's bullets are those we have most cause to fear? ”
"But surely, if we were embarking on such an expedition, we
ought to have brought our muskets ? »
“Porthos, you are a goose! What would be the good of bur-
dening ourselves with anything so useless ? »
"I should hardly think that a heavy musket, a dozen car-
tridges, and a powder flask would be useless when one is in the
presence of an enemy. ”
“Dear me! ” said Athos, "didn't you hear what D'Artagnan
was saying? ”
“What did D'Artagnan say? " asked Porthos.
"He said that during last night's attack eight or ten French-
men were killed, and as many Rochellois. ”
« Well ? »
“Well, hasn't everybody been too busy ever since to think of
stripping the dead bodies ? »
« What then ? »
“What then? Why, we shall find their muskets, their flasks,
and their cartridges, all waiting for us; and instead of four mus-
kets and twelve charges, there will be fifteen pieces and a hun-
dred bullets. ”
## p. 4986 (#154) ###########################################
4986
ALEXANDRE DUMAS, SENIOR
((
“O Athos,” exclaimed Aramis, you are a great man! ”
Porthos nodded approval; only D'Artagnan did not seem to
be convinced; and Grimaud appeared to have his doubts, for
seeing they were still making for the bastion (which up to that
moment he had declined to believe), he plucked his master by
the coat.
Where are we going ? ” he asked by a sign.
Athos pointed out the bastion.
"But," objected Grimaud, speaking always in pantomime,
we shall leave our bodies there. ”
Athos raised his hands and eyes to heaven. Grimaud placed
his basket on the ground and sat down, shaking his head.
Athos took a pistol from his belt, looked to see if it was well
primed, cocked it, and approached the barrel to Grimaud's ear.
Grimaud was on his legs again, as if by magic. Athos then
signed to him to take up the basket and go on.
Grimaud obeyed.
When they reached the bastion, the four friends turned round
and beheld over three hundred soldiers assembled at the gate of
the camp; M.
De Busigny, the dragoon, the Swiss, and their
silent companion forming a group apart.
Athos removed his hat, put it on the edge of his sword, and
waved it in the air.
The spectators returned his salute and gave a great hurrah,
which penetrated to their ears even at that distance. Then all
four disappeared inside the bastion, where Grimaud had preceded
them.
THE CONSULTATION OF THE MUSKETEERS
From The Three Musketeers)
AS
s Athos had assumed, the bastion was only occupied by a
dozen dead men, French and Rochellois.
"Gentlemen,” said Athos, to whom the command of the
expedition naturally fell, “while Grimaud lays out breakfast, we
will begin by picking up the muskets and cartridges, and of
course there is nothing in this employment to prevent our talking.
Our friends here,” he added, pointing to the dead, "will pay no
attention to us. ”
“But after we have made sure they have nothing in their
pockets, we had better throw them into the trench,” said Porthos,
## p. 4987 (#155) ###########################################
ALEXANDRE DUMAS, SENIOR
4987
can
“Yes," replied Athos, that is Grimaud's business. ”
« Well then,” said D'Artagnan, “let Grimaud search them,
and after he has done so, throw them over the wall. ”
“He shall do nothing of the sort,” replied Athos; "we may
find them useful yet. ”
“You are going mad, my good fellow! Of what use
these dead men be ? »
"Don't judge hastily, say the gospel and the Cardinal,” replied
Athos. “How many guns have we got? ”
"Twelve,” said Aramis.
“How many charges ? »
“A hundred. ”
“That will do. Now let us load. ”
They set to work; and as they finished loading the last gun,
Grimaud made a sign that breakfast was ready.
By a gesture Athos replied that they were ready also, ard
then pointed out a pepper-box turret, where Grimaud was to
keep watch. To help him pass the time Athos allowed him to
take some bread, two cutlets, and a bottle of wine.
Now,” said D'Artagnan, that there is no chance of our
being overheard, I hope you will tell us your secret. ”
“I trust, gentlemen, to give you both pleasure and glory at
once," replied Athos. "I have made you take a charming walk,
and now here is an excellent breakfast; while below, as you may
see through the loop-holes, are five hundred persons, who con-
sider us to either lunatics or heroes,— two classes of idiots
who have much in common.
«What is the matter, Grimaud ? As the circumstances are
grave, I will allow you to speak, but be short, I beg. What
is it ? »
"A troop. ”
“How many ? ”.
“Twenty ? ”
« What are they? ”
“Sixteen pioneers, four soldiers. ”
« How far off ? »
«Five hundred paces. ”
Then we have just time to finish this fowl and drink your
health, D'Artagnan. ”
A few minutes later the troop hove in sight, marching along
a narrow trench that connected the bastion and the town.
))
## p. 4988 (#156) ###########################################
4988
ALEXANDRE DUMAS, SENIOR
“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 stead.
ily. And besides the sappers, there are four soldiers and a briga-
dier, 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. « Gentle-
men,” he said, bowing courteously as he spoke, “I am at this
moment breakfasting with some friends in the shelter of this bas-
tion. As you know, there is nothing so unpleasant as to be dis-
turbed 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. ”
He had scarcely uttered the words when four muskets fired
simultaneously. The balls fell round Athos, but not one grazed
him.
Four muskets immediately answered, but these were better
directed than the others. Three of the soldiers fell dead, and
one of the sappers was wounded.
"Grimaud, another musket,” said Athos, who was still on
the breach. Grimaud obeyed; a second volley was fired; the
brigadier and two pioneers fell dead, and the rest of the troop
took flight.
## p. 4989 (#157) ###########################################
ALEXANDRE DUMAS, SENIOR
4989
.
« Now we must make a sortie,” cried Athos; and the four
comrades dashed out of the fort, picked up the muskets belong-
ing to the dead soldiers, and retreated to the bastion, carrying
the trophies of their victory.
“To arms! ” called Grimaud.
The young men jumped up and ran for their muskets.
This time the advancing troop was composed of twenty or
twenty-five men, but they were no longer sappers, but soldiers
of the garrison.
“Hadn't we better return to the camp ? ” said Porthos. « The
fight is not equal at all. ”
"Impossible, for three reasons,” said Athos. First, because
we haven't finished breakfast; second, because we have several
important things to discuss; and third, because there are still ten
minutes before the hour is up. "
"Well, anyway,” remarked Aramis, “we had better have some
plan of campaign. ”
" It is very simple,” replied Athos. « The moment the enemy
is within reach, we fire. If they still come on, we fire again,
and go on firing as long as our guns are loaded. If any of
them are left, and they try to carry the place by assault, we
will let them get well into the ditch, and then drop on their
heads a piece of the wall, that only keeps poised by a kind of
miracle. ”
"Bravo, cried Porthos. “Athos, you were born to be a gen-
eral; and the Cardinal, who thinks himself a great commander,
is not to be compared to you. ”
“Gentlemen,” replied Athos, (remember, one thing at a time.
Cover your man well. ”
“I have mine,” said D'Artagnan.
"And I,” said Porthos and Aramis.
« Then fire;” and as Athos gave the word, the muskets rang
out and four men fell. Then the drum beat, and the little army
advanced to the charge, while all the while the fire was kept up,
irregularly, but with a sure aim. The Rochellois however did
not flinch, but came on steadily.
When they reached the foot of the bastion, the enemy still
numbered twelve or fifteen. A sharp fire received them, but
they never faltered, and leaping the trench, prepared to scale the
breach.
Now, comrades! » cried Athos. “Let us make an end of
them. To the wall! »
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ALEXANDRE DUMAS, SENIOR
And all four, aided by Grimaud, began to push with their
guns a huge block of wall, which swayed as if with the wind,
and then rolled slowly down into the trench. A horrible cry
was heard, a cloud of dust mounted upwards; and all was silent.
“Have we crushed them all, do you think ? ” asked Athos.
«It looks like it,” answered D'Artagnan.
"No," said Porthos, "for two or three are limping off. ”
Athos looked at his watch.
"Gentlemen,” he said, "an hour has elapsed since we came
here, and we have won our bet. ”
“What is going on in the town ? ” asked Athos.
« It is a call to arms,
They listened, and the sound of a drum reached their ears.
“They must be sending us an entire regiment,” said Athos.
“You don't mean to fight a whole regiment ? ” said Porthos.
“Why not ? ” asked the musketeer. "If we had only had the
sense to bring another dozen bottles, I could make head against
an army! ”
As I live, the drum is coming nearer,” said D'Artagnan.
“Let it,” replied Athos. “It takes a quarter of an hour to
get from here to the town, so it takes a quarter of an hour to
get from the town here. That is more than enough time for us
to arrange our plans. If we leave this, we shall never find such
a good position.
But I must first give Grimaud his
orders; and Athos made a sign to his servant.
Grimaud,” said he, pointing to the dead who were lying on
the bastion, you will take these gentlemen and prop them up
against the wall, and put their hats on their heads and their guns
in their hands. "
“Great man! ” ejaculated D'Artagnan; "I begin to see. '
« You do ? » asked Porthos.
"Do you understand, Grimaud ? ” said Aramis.
Grimaud nodded.
“Then we are all right,” said Athos.
«On guard! ” cried D'Artagnan. Look at those red and
black points moving down there! A regiment, did you call it,
Athos ? — it is a perfect army! ”
“My word, yes! ” said Athos, “there they come! How cunning
to beat neither drums nor trumpets. Are you ready, Grimaud ? ”
Grimaud silently nodded, and showed them a dozen dead men,
arranged skillfully in various attitudes, some porting arms, some
taking aim, others drawing their swords.
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ALEXANDRE DUMAS, SENIOR
4991
« Well done! ” exclaimed Athos, “it does honor to your imagi-
nation. ”
“If it is all the same to you,” said Porthos, “I should like to
understand what is going on. ”
«Let us get away first,” replied D'Artagnan, and you will
understand after. ”
"One moinent, please! Give Grimaud time to clear away the
breakfast. ”
“Ah! ” said Aramis; "the red and black specks are becoming
more distinct, and I agree with D'Artagnan that we have no time
to lose before we regain the camp. ”
“Very well,” rejoined Athos, “I have nothing to say against
retreating. The wager was for an hour, and we have been here
an hour and a half. Let us be off at once. ”
The four comrades went out at the back, following Grimaud,
who had already departed with the basket.
"Oh! ” cried Athos, stopping suddenly, “what the devil is to
be done ? »
"Has anything been forgotten ? ” asked Aramis.
“Our flag, man, our flag! We can't leave our flag in the
enemy's hands, if it is nothing but a napkin. ” And Athos dashed
again into the bastion, and bore away the flag unhurt, amid a
volley of balls from the Rochellois.
He waved his flag, while turning his back on the troops of
the town, and saluting those of the camp. From both sides arose
great cries, of anger on the one hand and enthusiasm on the
other, and the napkin, pierced with three bullet-holes, was in
truth transformed into a flag. “Come down, come down! they
shouted from the camp.
Athos came down, and his friends, who had awaited him
anxiously, received him with joy.
"Be quick, Athos,” said D'Artagnan; “now that we have got
everything but money, it would be stupid to get killed. ”
But Athos would not hurry himself, and they had to keep
pace with him.
By this time Grimaud and his basket were well beyond bullet
range, while in the distance the sounds of rapid firing might be
heard.
“What are they doing? ” asked Porthos; «what are they
firing at? ”
“At our dead men,” replied Athos.
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ALEXANDRE DUMAS, SENIOR
"But they don't fire back. ”
“Exactly so; therefore the enemy will come to the conclusion
that there is an ambuscade. They will hold a council, and send
an envoy with a flag of truce, and when they at last find out the
joke, we shall be out of reach. So it is no use getting apoplexy
by racing. ”
“Oh, I understand,” said Porthos, full of astonishment.
« That is a mercy! ” replied Athos, shrugging his shoulders, as
they approached the camp, which was watching their progress in
a ferment of admiration.
This time a new fusillade was begun, and the balls whistled
close to the heads of the four victors and fell about their ears.
The Rochellois had entered the bastion.
“What bad shooting! ” said D'Artagnan. "How many was it
we killed ? Twelve ? ”
« Twelve or fifteen. ”
“And how many did we crush ? ”
"Eight or ten. ”
“And not a scratch to show for it. ”
“Ah, what is that on your hand, D'Artagnan ? It looks to me
like blood. ”
« It's nothing,” replied D'Artagnan.
"A spent ball ? ”
“Not even that. ”
“But what is it, then ? ” As we have said, the silent and reso-
lute Athos loved D'Artagnan like his own son, and showed every
now and then all the anxiety of a father.
« The skin is rubbed off, that is all,” said D'Artagnan.
