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Henty + </title> + <style type="text/css" xml:space="preserve"> + + body { margin:5%; background:#faebd0; text-align:justify} + P { text-indent: 1em; margin-top: .25em; margin-bottom: .25em; } + H1,H2,H3,H4,H5,H6 { text-align: center; margin-left: 15%; margin-right: 15%; } + hr { width: 50%; text-align: center;} + .foot { margin-left: 20%; margin-right: 20%; text-align: justify; text-indent: -3em; font-size: 90%; } + blockquote {font-size: 97%; font-style: italic; margin-left: 10%; margin-right: 10%;} + .mynote {background-color: #DDE; color: #000; padding: .5em; margin-left: 10%; margin-right: 10%; font-family: sans-serif; font-size: 95%;} + .toc { margin-left: 10%; margin-bottom: .75em;} + .toc2 { margin-left: 20%;} + div.fig { display:block; margin:0 auto; text-align:center; } + div.middle { margin-left: 20%; margin-right: 20%; text-align: justify; } + .figleft {float: left; margin-left: 0%; margin-right: 1%;} + .figright {float: right; margin-right: 0%; margin-left: 1%;} + .pagenum {display:inline; font-size: 70%; font-style:normal; + margin: 0; padding: 0; position: absolute; right: 1%; + text-align: right;} + pre { font-style: italic; font-size: 90%; margin-left: 10%;} + +</style> + </head> + <body> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + +The Project Gutenberg EBook of Won by the Sword, by G.A. Henty + +This eBook is for the use of anyone anywhere at no cost and with +almost no restrictions whatsoever. You may copy it, give it away or +re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included +with this eBook or online at www.gutenberg.org + + +Title: Won by the Sword + A Story of the Thirty Years' War + +Author: G.A. Henty + +Release Date: June 13, 2009 [EBook #4931] +Last Updated: March 11, 2018 + +Language: English + +Character set encoding: UTF-8 + +*** START OF THIS PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK WON BY THE SWORD *** + + + + +Produced by Martin Robb, and David Widger + + + + + + +</pre> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <h1> + WON BY THE SWORD + </h1> + <h2> + A STORY OF THE THIRTY YEARS' WAR + </h2> + <p> + <br /><br /> + </p> + <h2> + By G.A. Henty + </h2> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> + <blockquote> + <p class="toc"> + <big><b>CONTENTS</b></big> + </p> + <p> + <br /> <a href="#link2H_PREF"> PREFACE. </a><br /> <br /> <br /> <a + href="#link2HCH0001"> CHAPTER I. </a> A STROKE OF GOOD + FORTUNE <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0002"> CHAPTER II. </a> CHOOSING + A LACKEY <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0003"> CHAPTER III. </a> THE + FIRST BATTLE <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0004"> CHAPTER IV. </a> SUCCESS + <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0005"> CHAPTER V. </a> THE + RELIEF OF THE CITADEL <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0006"> CHAPTER VI. + </a> A CHANGE OF SCENE <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0007"> + CHAPTER VII. </a> THE DUC D'ENGHIEN <br /><br /> <a + href="#link2HCH0008"> CHAPTER VIII. </a> ROCROI <br /><br /> <a + href="#link2HCH0009"> CHAPTER IX. </a> HONOURS <br /><br /> <a + href="#link2HCH0010"> CHAPTER X. </a> AN ESTATE AND TITLE + <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0011"> CHAPTER XI. </a> THE + CASTLE OF LA VILLAR <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0012"> CHAPTER XII. + </a> THE POITOU REGIMENT <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0013"> + CHAPTER XIII. </a> THE BATTLES OF FREIBURG <br /><br /> <a + href="#link2HCH0014"> CHAPTER XIV. </a> JUST IN TIME <br /><br /> + <a href="#link2HCH0015"> CHAPTER XV. </a> THE BATTLE OF + MARIENTHAL <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0016"> CHAPTER XVI. </a> AN + ESCAPE <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0017"> CHAPTER XVII. </a> A + ROBBER'S DEN <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0018"> CHAPTER XVIII. </a> NORDLINGEN + <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0019"> CHAPTER XIX. </a> THE + PEASANTS' REVOLT <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0020"> CHAPTER XX. </a> AN + OLD SCORE <br /><br /> <a href="#link2HCH0021"> CHAPTER XXI. </a> THE + DUKE'S REVENGE <br /><br /> + </p> + </blockquote> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <a name="link2H_PREF" id="link2H_PREF"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <h2> + PREFACE. + </h2> + <p> + MY DEAR LADS, + </p> + <p> + In my preface to the Lion of the North I expressed a hope that I might + some day be able to continue the history of the Thirty Years' War. The + deaths of Gustavus and his great rival Wallenstein and the crushing defeat + of the Swedes and their allies at the battle of Nordlingen brought the + first period of that war to a close. Hostilities, indeed, never ceased, + but the Swedes no longer played the leading part on the Protestant side + that they had hitherto occupied. Oxenstiern, the great chancellor of + Sweden, saw that the only hope of eventual success lay in engaging France + in the struggle, and he and the Duke of Weimar went to Paris and pointed + out to Richelieu that unless France intervened, Austria must become the + master of all Germany, and as the ally of Spain would have it in her power + to completely dominate France. Richelieu perceived the opportunity, made a + treaty with the Swedes and Weimar, and engaged to grant large subsidies to + the former, and to send an army to cooperate with the latter. Then began + the second period of this long and terrible struggle, France now taking + the place that Sweden had hitherto occupied, and bearing the brunt of the + conflict. She emerged triumphant with her territories largely increased, + while Austria was crushed and humiliated, and Spain was dethroned from her + position as the dominating power of Europe. The success of France was + greatly due to the fact that her armies were led by two of the greatest + military geniuses of all times, viz., Conde and Turenne, men of very + different types, but equally great as commanders, and equally at the time + of which we are speaking devoted to the cause of France. Both were men of + extraordinary personal courage, and although one was as prudent and + careful of the lives of his troops as the other was impetuous and careless + at what cost he won his victories, they worked together with a harmony + that could have hardly been expected among men so differently constituted. + Although, in the subsequent wars of the Fronde they took different sides, + their friendship, except during a short period of alienation, was never + shaken, and their admiration for each other's genius never abated. + </p> + <p> + Yours sincerely, + </p> + <p> + G.A. HENTY <br /> <br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <br /> <br /> <a name="link2HCH0001" id="link2HCH0001"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <h2> + CHAPTER I: A STROKE OF GOOD FORTUNE + </h2> + <p> + A mounted officer, followed by two orderlies, was proceeding at a brisk + trot from Paris to St. Denis, in October, 1639, when he came upon a large + party of boys, who, armed with sticks, were advancing in something like + military order against a wall on the top of a low hill. + </p> + <p> + “What are you doing?” he asked the lad who appeared to be the leader. + </p> + <p> + “We are playing at war, sir. We are advancing against the fortress of La + Motte. This is the regiment of Turenne.” + </p> + <p> + “And who are you at other times?” the officer asked with a smile. + </p> + <p> + “My name is Hector Campbell, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “Then you are not French?” + </p> + <p> + “No, sir; my father was an officer in the Scotch regiment. He was killed + at the siege of La Rochelle.” + </p> + <p> + “And who is taking care of you?” + </p> + <p> + “I live with Angus MacIntosh. He was a sergeant in my father's company. He + was badly wounded at La Rochelle, and not being fit for further service, + he took a cabaret near the barracks. The officers are very kind. They + allow him a sum for taking care of me. Of course I am often in barracks, + and have learned the drill, and I have heard and read about battles and + sieges, so I am chosen to command.” + </p> + <p> + “And so you know something of the battles in which Turenne was engaged?” + </p> + <p> + “I think I know about them all, sir, both in Holland and on the Rhine, and + have seen plans of the battles. Of course this is not at all like La + Motte, which was on the top of a high rock, so that when Turenne was + ordered to attack with his regiment after the general's son had failed, he + had to pass not only through a heavy fire, but through the huge stones + that the enemy hurled down. It was grand; and he did well at all the other + sieges. Then, again, there was Saverne. See how he fought there, and + stormed the place when even the Swedes, who are good soldiers, had failed. + I think he is going to be the greatest of our captains.” + </p> + <p> + “Turenne is only a learner in the art of war,” the other said gravely. + </p> + <p> + “I think he has learnt more than any of the rest,” the boy said boldly; + “and all the soldiers love him more than any of the other generals, for he + takes such care of them, and does not treat them as if they were dirt + under his feet, only meant to obey orders, and go and get killed when + told.” + </p> + <p> + “You have heard him very much over praised,” the officer said quietly. “I + think that he does his best; but he is a young man yet, not older than I + am. His advance has been due to fortune rather than to his own merits.” + </p> + <p> + “I don't think so,” the boy said sturdily. “Do you think that he would be + a lieutenant general at twenty-eight, and that all the soldiers would + speak of him as they do, if it were only fortune? Look how he captured + Landrecies and Solre, and drove the Austrians back from Maubeurge, and + aided the Duke of Weimar to thrash them at Weilenweir, and stormed the + main fort of Breisach! He has been successful in all his enterprises, and + now it is said he is to command in Italy, where things have been going on + badly. The cardinal would not have chosen him had he not considered that + no one could do better than he.” + </p> + <p> + The officer laughed. “Well, young sir, I see that you are so well + acquainted with the sieges and battles of our time that I cannot argue + with you.” + </p> + <p> + “I did not mean that, sir,” the boy said in some confusion. “I was only + saying what our soldiers think, and it is natural that I, being only a + boy, should make him my hero, for he went to the wars when he was a year + younger than I am, and at fourteen carried a musket as a volunteer under + Maurice of Nassau, and for five years he was in all the battles in + Holland, and raised the first battery that opened on Bois-le-duc.” + </p> + <p> + “And do you receive no pension as the son of an officer killed in battle?” + </p> + <p> + “No, sir. When the living soldiers often have to go months without their + pay, the sons of dead ones can hardly expect to be thought of. But I don't + care; in two years I shall be old enough to enlist, and I shall go to the + frontier and join Hepburn's Scottish brigade, who are now, they say, in + the French service.” + </p> + <p> + “They are fine soldiers—none better,” the officer said. “But why + does not the colonel of your father's regiment ask for a commission for + you?” + </p> + <p> + “The regiment is not in favour with the cardinal,” the boy replied with a + smile. “They are too Protestant for his eminence, and the colonel is not a + man to ask favours if he is likely to be refused.” + </p> + <p> + “Well,” the officer said, “it is clear to me that you are a lad of spirit, + and that you have done your best to prepare yourself for your profession + as a soldier by studying military history, and I think it hard that, as + the son of an officer who died in battle for France, France should have + done nothing for you. I have some little influence myself. What is the + name of this cabaret that Sergeant MacIntosh keeps?” + </p> + <p> + “The Scottish Soldier, sir. It is near the gate of the barracks of St. + Denis.” + </p> + <p> + “Do not go out tomorrow afternoon. I will have a talk with him, and maybe + I can be of some assistance to you.” + </p> + <p> + So saying, he touched his horse's flank with his heel and rode on, while + the boys continued their play. The next afternoon the lad remained at + home, to the surprise of the sergeant. + </p> + <p> + “What keeps you in today, Hector? It is rare indeed that you are indoors + in the afternoon.” + </p> + <p> + “An officer came along while we were playing,” the lad said, “and asked me + some questions. I told him who I was. He said that he had some influence, + and might be able to assist me.” + </p> + <p> + “What sort of assistance?” the sergeant grumbled. “He must have influence + indeed if he can get you a pension.” + </p> + <p> + “I don't think it was that,” the boy said. “I said that I should like to + enlist as a volunteer.” + </p> + <p> + The sergeant laughed. “Well, they do take volunteers as young as you are, + Hector, but they must be cadets of a noble family. You will have to wait + another couple of years before they will enlist you, much less take you as + a volunteer.” + </p> + <p> + There were a good many Scottish soldiers sitting in the room, when an + officer rode up to the door and dismounted. + </p> + <p> + “It is a general officer,” one of the men said, looking out of the window, + and as the door opened and the officer entered, all stood up and saluted. + </p> + <p> + “Sit down, men,” he said. “I am not here to disturb you, but to have a + talk with Sergeant MacIntosh. Have you a room, sergeant, where we can + speak privately?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, general,” the sergeant said, saluting again, and led the way into a + little room generally devoted to the use of noncommissioned officers. The + officer caught Hector's eye, and beckoned to him to follow. + </p> + <p> + “Do you know me, sergeant?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, general, you are Viscount Turenne.” + </p> + <p> + Hector gave an involuntary exclamation of horror at the thought of the + freedom with which he had the day before discoursed with this famous + commander. Military officers at that time did not wear any set uniforms, + and indeed there was very considerable latitude among the soldiers, and it + was only because he was followed by two attendants that the boy had taken + him to be an officer, probably a young captain. The quietness of his dress + had not even led him to believe that he belonged to a noble family. + </p> + <p> + “This lad tells me that he is the son of Captain Campbell of the Scottish + regiment?” + </p> + <p> + “That is so, general.” + </p> + <p> + “And also that you were a sergeant in his father's company, and have since + taken care of him.” + </p> + <p> + “I have done the best I could for him, general; but indeed the officers of + the regiment allow me quite as much as the lad's food costs.” + </p> + <p> + “He seems to be a careful student of military history, sergeant?” + </p> + <p> + “That he is, sir. I don't think there has been a battle, or even a + skirmish, in the past ten years which he cannot tell you the ins and outs + of. He will sit here for hours as quiet as a mouse when some soldiers from + the wars come in, and sometimes he gets books lent him with the plans of + battles and sieges, and when he is not doing that he is in the barrack + yard watching the men drill. I believe he knows all the words of command + as well as any captain in the Scottish regiment. As to handling his + musket, I have taught him that myself, and the use of a sword, too, since + he was ten years old, and the men of his father's company have taken + pleasure in teaching the lad all they knew in that way.” + </p> + <p> + “He reminds me of my own boyhood,” the general said. “I like his looks, + and it seems to me that he has the making of a good officer. All the + officers of the regiment are men of good Scottish families, and as such + can serve in any capacity. I have often need of a young officer who can + carry my messages on a field of battle, and can be trusted to understand + their import and deliver them faithfully. Now, Campbell,” he said, turning + to the lad, who was standing with flushed face and eyes beaming with + delight and gratitude, “I will give you the choice. I will either appoint + you a volunteer for a year, in which time, if your conduct is + satisfactory, I will name you lieutenant, or I will take you directly into + my own household. My object in either case would be to produce an officer + likely to be useful to his Majesty. + </p> + <p> + “I should certainly not have adopted that course had it not been that you + appear already to have learned the duties of a soldier, and to be + acquainted with the ordinary drill and with the necessities of a soldier's + life. If you enter my household you will find it no child's play, + certainly no life of ease and comfort. I do not spare myself, nor do I + spare the officers immediately under me. In a regiment you would learn + better, perhaps, the duties of a regimental officer, but with me you will + have more opportunities of learning the art of war, and of some day + becoming a distinguished officer, always supposing that you are not shot + down in battle or die of fatigue and hardship. Which do you choose?” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, sir, how can I thank you for your goodness? There is nothing in the + world that I should like so much as to be in your service.” + </p> + <p> + “So be it,” the general said. “I shall obtain an appointment for you as + lieutenant attached to my household. At first, you will simply have to + carry messages for me; but when I have learnt more of your character I + shall employ you as one that I can trust. + </p> + <p> + “Sergeant, here is a purse, use the contents in furnishing the lad with + clothes suitable for his position, and let him call on me in three days at + the hotel of the Duc de Bouillon, where I am staying. + </p> + <p> + “Can you ride?” he asked suddenly. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “I will see to the matter of a horse for you. I shall be leaving at the + end of a week to join the army in Italy. And remember always, lad,” he + added with a smile, “that I am still but a learner in the art of war.” + </p> + <p> + So saying he nodded kindly to him and the sergeant, went out, returned the + salute of the soldiers, mounted his horse, which his orderly was holding + for him, and rode off. + </p> + <p> + “Well, well,” said the sergeant, who with Hector had followed him out, + “the like of this I never saw before: to think that the Viscount of + Turenne should visit the cabaret of a soldier, and should have deigned to + offer you a position in his household! I can scarce believe that I am not + dreaming. How did it all come about, and how have you thus gained his + favour?” + </p> + <p> + “I am ashamed to say, sergeant, that I gained it by my presumption; now + that I know who he was, I may say by my insolence. A party of us were + having a mimic battle. We were acting as the regiment of Turenne at the + storming of La Motte. I was in command, and so acting as Turenne, when a + gentleman, who, by his appearance and age, and by the fact that two + troopers rode behind him, I took to be a captain in the army, came up and + questioned me as to what we were doing. I told him, then he talked about + Turenne. I said I thought he was our greatest general. He, that Turenne + was only a learner in the art of war. I upheld him, and spoke of the + battles and sieges in which he had taken part. Then he asked me about + myself, and I told him my birth and bringing up, and he said he might be + of assistance to me, and would call here and see you.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, well, it almost passes belief, Hector, that a boy like you should + have dared to enter into an argument with an officer, even if only, as you + believed, a captain. And to think that this has come of it, instead of his + having laid his whip across your back, as you deserved. Your fortune is + made, lad, that is, if you behave yourself. Turenne is a great soldier; + and more than that, from what I have heard he is loved by his men more + than any other general, and they will do anything for him. His regiment + here, though he was but nineteen when he obtained his command, was + admitted to be one of the best drilled and the best disciplined of any in + the service. + </p> + <p> + “He saw to everything himself, spent his whole time in drilling them as if + he had been only a lieutenant with nothing but his sword for his fortune, + instead of a great noble. When he was with de la Valette and Weimar, and + the army had to fall back and were well nigh starved, Turenne sold his + plate and his carriages to buy food for the men. He had his own baggage + thrown out of the wagons to make room for those who were too weak to + march; and on one occasion gave up his own horse to a soldier who was + sinking from fatigue and hunger, and himself marched on foot. He always + leads his troops in battle, and wherever he goes they will follow. He was + right in saying that he does not spare himself. The soldiers believe that + he does without any sleep when on a campaign, for he is for ever going + round seeing that everything is in order, that the outposts are properly + placed and vigilant, and that the soldiers have food, and such comfort as + can be obtained. Now let us go in and tell my comrades of your good + fortune. There is not a man in the regiment who will not be glad to hear + of it. I will go across with you myself to the colonel's lodging.” + </p> + <p> + “But please, sergeant, do not say a word about my folly; only say that the + general, coming across a party of us playing at war, questioned me, and + finding that I was the son of a Scottish officer who had been killed at La + Rochelle, and that I had worked hard at getting up the history of the + wars, and longed much to go into the army, had promised to come round the + next day, and said that he might be able to aid me.” + </p> + <p> + “I understand, lad. Yes, it is better that your foolishness should not be + known.” + </p> + <p> + The colonel was greatly pleased when he heard of what had happened. + </p> + <p> + “I had intended myself to have asked for a commission for you when you + were a couple of years older,” he said to Hector, “but I was by no means + sure of getting it, for the cardinal is not partial to the regiment. + Turenne, however, stands high in his favour—in spite of the fact + that his brother, the Duc de Bouillon, has left Richelieu's party, and is + regarded by him as an enemy—so we may be sure that your commission + will be at once signed. You must sup with me and the officers of the + regiment tonight. There is not one who will not rejoice that your father's + son has met with such good fortune, for assuredly you could not have + entered the army under better auspices. + </p> + <p> + “It is just like Turenne to have thus come forward to assist the son of a + brave soldier killed in action. As a rule, I am sorry to say that the + officers of our army concern themselves but little with the affairs of the + soldiers under their command. Of course in our regiment it is different, + as we have many gentlemen of well known Scottish families serving in the + ranks, and most of the others are our own clansmen, or come from our + dales. We all cling together as countrymen among strangers, though indeed + we can hardly regard them as strangers, seeing that Scotland and France + have ever been allies, and that our Queen Mary was a French princess. And + now that Scotland has given kings to England, and English troops fought + side by side with the French under Henry of Navarre against the Spaniards + and Guises, and, although not in strict alliance, are alike enemies of the + Spaniards, we can scarce feel ourselves as strangers here. Besides, is not + a French princess wife of King Charles? + </p> + <p> + “I do not say that either England or France has altogether forgotten the + long wars between them, but that is a very old story now, and as long as + Spain threatens to extend her power over all Europe, so long are we likely + to remain good friends. If the power of Spain is once broken, old quarrels + may break out again, but I trust that that will not be in my time, for + assuredly the regiment, although willing to fight against all other + enemies of France, would refuse to march against our countrymen. Now, + Sergeant MacIntosh, I know that you must be anxious to get back to your + inn. You will have a busy time this afternoon unless I am greatly + mistaken. Leave Campbell with me. + </p> + <p> + “In the first place, it will be as well that he should not be down there, + for the fun is likely to get fast and furious. There is not a man in the + regiment who knew his father but will be drinking the lad's health, and it + were better that he should go tomorrow through the barracks and shake + their hands, than that he should be among them there. You can tell them + that I have taken the boy off, so that they may not think that he stayed + away on his own account. We will see him fitted out. It is a matter that + touches the honour of the regiment that the son of our old comrade should + make a fair show in the household of the viscount.” + </p> + <p> + “The general has left me a purse for that purpose, colonel.” + </p> + <p> + “It was a kindly thought, but let the lad start with it in his pocket. It + is our duty to see that he has everything befitting his father's son.” + </p> + <p> + As soon as the sergeant left, the colonel said, “Now, Campbell, do you go + into the anteroom. I shall be ready to go out with you in half an hour.” + </p> + <p> + Orderlies were then despatched to the various officers' lodgings, and in a + few minutes they assembled. The colonel told them what had happened, and + said that in his opinion it concerned the honour of the regiment to see + that their comrade's son was properly equipped. + </p> + <p> + All those who had known Captain Campbell were greatly pleased with the + news, and there was not a dissenting voice when the colonel proposed that + there should be a general subscription of two days' pay. He himself, + however, and Captain Campbell's friends, gave a much larger amount, and + the total was amply sufficient for the equipment of a young man of good + family joining the army. Hector was then called in and informed of what + had taken place, and heartily congratulated by the officers. He was + greatly affected by their kindness and the proof of the estimation in + which his father had been held. + </p> + <p> + “We had always intended to do this,” the colonel said, “when the time came + for your entering the army, for we felt that it would indeed be a + discredit to the regiment were you to go into the world without the + equipment that a Scottish gentleman should have. Now, Captain Mackenzie + and Captain Home, I will ask you to act as furnishers. You know what is + required for a young officer on the staff of a general like Viscount + Turenne, who would be called upon to accompany him to court, and must do + him no discredit; besides which, he must of course have clothes for a + campaign. He will not need arms, for I have kept for him his father's + sword and pistols. See that the tailors undertake to get his clothes ready + quickly, for he is to accompany Turenne to Italy in four or five days. One + suit at least must be finished in two days, for on the third he is to wait + upon Turenne, who is staying at the hotel of the Duc de Bouillon, and he + may possibly be presented to the cardinal.” + </p> + <p> + The dress of a French gentleman in the reign of Louis XIII differed but + slightly from that worn at the same time by the cavaliers of Charles I. It + consisted of a loose cloak of cloth, silk, satin, or velvet, according to + the occasion and the wealth of the wearer. It generally hung loosely on + the shoulders, but two or three of the top buttons were sometimes + fastened; the sleeves were loose and open from the elbow. Sometimes the + cloak was richly embroidered. Over it fell a collar of rich lace, with + Vandyke border. Beneath it was worn a short tightly fitted doublet + embroidered in front, with puffed sleeves, and with a belt or sash round + the waist. The breeches were very full, reaching to the knee. For walking + or riding, loose high boots turned down at the top and trimmed with lace + or frillings joined the breeches; while in court dress, silk stockings and + shoes with rosettes were worn. The swords hung from a richly embroidered + baldrick going over the right shoulder. + </p> + <p> + Officers of the different regiments were distinguished by the colour of + their sashes, which was the only point of regimental uniformity. When on a + campaign doublets were usually worn of thick buff leather; armour was + still used, but was far less cumbrous than it had been, consisting for the + most part solely of shoulder pieces and cuirass, with plates covering the + upper part of the arm, thick buff leather gauntlets being considered + sufficient protection below the elbow. Four suits were ordered for Hector: + one for court, another for general use when in Paris or other large towns, + the third for travelling and when in attendance with the general, the + fourth for actual service in the field. + </p> + <p> + Almost as expensive as the suits were the shirts, with their deep lace + collars and ruffle; while for service in the field half a dozen plain + shirts were purchased. The headdress on ordinary occasions was a broad + beaver hat with plumes, and in the field a close fitting helmet with cheek + pieces. Visors had been almost entirely given up. On the third day Hector + presented himself at the appointed hour at the hotel of the Duc de + Bouillon. He was dressed in the second best of his costumes, and wore for + the first time his father's sword. In the hall were numbers of soldiers + and lackeys. One of the latter came up to him. + </p> + <p> + “I am here to see the Viscount Turenne by appointment,” he said. + </p> + <p> + The lackey led the way to a large chamber, where several officers and + gentlemen were waiting. Here Hector gave his name to a chamberlain, who + took it into another apartment. He waited for half an hour, and observed + that while the officers, one by one, were taken into the room where the + lackey had carried his name, the nobles and gentlemen, who were much more + numerous, were shown into another, which was evidently the principal + reception room. He guessed at once that it was here that the Duc de + Bouillon was receiving visitors, while his brother was engaged in giving + interviews to officers, who perhaps desired appointments in his army, or + in arranging details of stores, arms, and ammunition required for its use. + At last his turn came; and on his name being called, he followed the usher + into a small apartment, where Turenne was sitting at a table covered with + letters. The general looked at him critically. + </p> + <p> + “You make a very good figure,” he said, “and better, I can tell you, than + I did at your age, for I was but weakly, while you are well grown and + strong. Among your other exercises you have not neglected the use of your + sword. I could tell that as soon as my eyes fell upon you.” + </p> + <p> + “No, general, I have practised for two or three hours a day since I was + ten years old, and I think that almost every soldier in the regiment has + been my instructor in turn, and the maitre-d'armes of the regiment himself + gave me lessons twice a week.” + </p> + <p> + “I have managed your business for you,” the viscount said. “I saw the + cardinal yesterday and asked for a commission for you. He simply asked for + what regiment, and I said that at present I intended to keep you about my + own person, as I thought you would make a good officer and would some day + do me credit. He was busy at the time, so he simply signed an appointment + as a lieutenant and gave it to me to fill in your name. I asked if I + should bring you to his levee tomorrow, but he said, 'There is no + occasion, viscount, we have both plenty on our hands; neither you nor I + can waste time on young lieutenants. You can present him to me when you + return from the war.' You know the cardinal by sight, I suppose?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, general, I have seen him many times.” + </p> + <p> + “He is a great man,” Turenne said thoughtfully, rather as if speaking to + himself than to Hector; “the greatest that France has ever known—he + is the soul of France. It is well, indeed, that we have at present a king + who recognizes how great a man he is, and is wise enough to know that + although he himself is somewhat overshadowed, France is made greater and + stronger and his own reign more glorious by his genius.” Then he broke off + with a smile. “I was talking to myself rather than to you. I shall ride to + St. Denis at two o'clock today; be here at that time. I will order the + horse, that I have purchased for you, to be brought round here.” + </p> + <p> + Hector was about to express his gratitude, but the general at once stopped + him. “I need no thanks,” he said. “I perceived in the ardour with which + you have studied military matters that you would make a good officer, and + you remind me of my own boyhood. I always like to help forward officers + who I see ready, not only to do their actual business but to go beyond it, + in order to acquire knowledge, and I doubt not that I shall find this in + you. But you must remember, lad, that you are now no longer a civilian, + but a soldier, that you must be not only obedient but respectful to those + above you in rank, that discretion as well as courage is necessary for + success, that you must be thoughtful for the comfort of the soldiers, + ready to expose your life in battle to encourage them, and also to set + them an example of endurance, cheerfulness, and good spirits in times of + hardship and distress. Remember that, to the soldier, there is no such + thing as party; he fights for France and for France only, and should hold + himself aloof from even the smallest expression of opinion on political + matters. Then, at two o'clock.” + </p> + <p> + Hector bowed deeply and left the room. When he returned to the hotel at + two o'clock, six grooms were standing with the horses before the entrance; + he waited outside until the viscount, followed by four officers, came out. + </p> + <p> + “Oh, here you are, lieutenant!” he said, as his eye fell on Hector; “I was + afraid that punctuality was not among your virtues. Gentlemen, this is + Lieutenant Hector Campbell, son of a brave officer of the Scottish + regiment who fell at La Rochelle; he is, for the present, attached to my + household, and will ride with us for Italy the day after tomorrow. + Campbell, this gentleman is Colonel d'Estampes, who is the head of my + staff; this Major Mutton, who will have the control of all matters + connected with the artillery; these are Messieurs de Lisle and Emile de + Chavigny, who are my aides-de-camp. Now, gentlemen, let us mount.” + </p> + <p> + As the Scottish regiment was a mounted one, Hector had had ample + opportunities to learn to ride well, and he now fell in with the two + aides-de-camp, who were both young men of eighteen or nineteen years of + age, members of good families, and together they followed the Viscount + Turenne, who rode on ahead with the two staff officers. While they were + making their way through the narrow streets of Paris they rode but slowly, + but as soon as they passed through the gates they went on at a brisk pace. + </p> + <p> + “You are fortunate,” de Lisle said, “in having obtained a commission so + young, although I do not say that there are not many of similar age in the + army.” + </p> + <p> + “I am fortunate indeed,” Hector replied, “fortunate beyond anything that I + could have believed possible, thanks to the goodness of Viscount Turenne.” + </p> + <p> + “You could not enter the army under better patronage,” de Chavigny said. + “We have both served under him for two years on the Rhine, and had we been + his brothers he could not have been more kind; but the work, ma foi, was + tremendous. The soldiers may well say that the general is sleepless. + Happily he does not expect us to go altogether without rest. Frequently he + is away all night by himself in the saddle, sometimes he takes one or + other of us with him, but at any rate we get a night's sleep by turns. + Much as he has to worry him—what with the ignorance of some and the + carelessness of others—I have never seen him out of temper; but then + a reproof, however mildly spoken, by him, is more dreaded than a volley of + abuse from any other general. He was telling us before he came out that + you are already well up in drill, and in the use of arms.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes; I have been brought up, I may say, in the Scottish regiment, and + after my father's death the officers and men were all very kind to me, and + I learnt my drill both as a soldier and an officer, to fence, use my + pistols, and ride. The officers lent me books on military history and + tactics.” + </p> + <p> + “The viscount said you were wonderfully well read in such matters,” de + Lisle said. “I own that beyond the campaigns that I have taken part in I + have a very vague idea of such things. My time before I joined was taken + up with learning the use of arms, equitation, and certain dry studies + under an abbe. I wish now that instead of Latin I had learned something of + military history; it seems to me that when one is intended for the army it + is a good deal more important than Latin or theology.” + </p> + <p> + “I fancy, de Lisle,” his companion said laughing, “that from what I know + of you your objection was not so much to the course of study as to study + altogether. I know that that was my case.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, perhaps so; still, I might as well have been whipped into learning + something useful, instead of something that, so far as I can see, will + never be of any value whatever. Were you born over here, lieutenant?” + </p> + <p> + “No, I was born in Scotland; but my father, who was a younger son, saw no + chance of making his way by his sword at home. It was certain that James + would never go to war, and as there was no regular army, there seemed no + opening for a penniless cadet in England or Scotland, so he came over here + and obtained a commission, and as soon as he did so sent for my mother and + myself. She died two years later; he kept me with him. When he went on + service I was left in the charge of a Huguenot family, and it was well + that it was so, for otherwise I might have grown up unable to read or + write. The last time that I saw him was before he rode to La Rochelle. + After his death I was adopted by the regiment, for the good people I was + with left Paris to join their friends in the south. Had it been otherwise + I should have stayed with them. The good man would probably have brought + me up to be, like himself, a minister, and I am afraid I should have made + a very poor one.” + </p> + <p> + The two young men laughed. “Just at present,” de Lisle said, “the two + religions get on quietly together. The cardinal, churchman as he is, knows + that if France is to be great religious enmities must cease, and that the + wars of the last reign cost tens of thousands of lives, and drove great + numbers of men to take refuge in Holland or England, to the benefit of + those countries and our loss. Still, his successor, whoever he may be, may + think more of party and less of France, and in that case you might have + found your vocation of a Huguenot minister as full of danger as that of a + soldier.” + </p> + <p> + “It would have been much worse,” Hector said, “for it would not have been + a question of fighting, but of being massacred. I know nothing of either + religious disputes or of politics. In the regiment these things were never + talked about, either among the men or the officers; all were for the king. + But at the same time, as it seemed to them that it was the cardinal who + had stopped the persecution of the Huguenots, and who had now gone to war + with the Austrians to prevent the Protestant princes of Germany being + altogether subjugated by the Imperialists, they felt grateful to him; for + of course Scotchmen are all on the side of the princes, and nigh half the + army of Gustavus Adolphus was composed of my countrymen.” + </p> + <p> + “I do not suppose,” Chavigny laughed, “that the cardinal would have cared + very much for the destruction of all the Protestant princes of Germany, + had it not been that their ruin would make Austria more formidable than + ever. As long as Gustavus lived and the Swedes were able to hold their own + against the Imperialists, France troubled herself in no way in the matter; + but when the Swedes were finally routed at Nordlingen, and it seemed that + the Imperialists would triumph everywhere—for most of the Protestant + princes were leaving the Confederacy and trying to make the best terms + they could for themselves—Richelieu stepped in; and now we see + France, which for the past hundred years has been trying to stamp out + Protestantism, uniting with Protestant Holland and Sweden to uphold the + Protestant princes of Germany, and this under the direction of a cardinal + of the Church of Rome. And here are we riding behind a Huguenot general, + who perhaps more than any other possesses the cardinal's confidence.” + </p> + <p> + “It seems strange,” de Lisle said, “but it is assuredly good policy. While + fighting Austria we are fighting Spain, for Austria and Spain are but two + branches of one empire. Spain is our eternal enemy. True, she is not as + formidable as she was. Henry of Navarre's triumph over the Guises half + emancipated us from her influence. The English destroyed her naval power. + Holland well nigh exhausted her treasury, and brought such discredit on + her arms as she had never before suffered. Still, she and Austria combined + dominate Europe, and it is on her account that we have taken the place of + the Swedes and continued this war that has raged for so many years.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0002" id="link2HCH0002"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER II: CHOOSING A LACKEY + </h2> + <p> + The policy of the great cardinal had for its objects the aggrandizement of + France, as well as the weakening of the power of Austria. So long as the + struggle between the Protestant princes and the Swedes against the + Imperialists had been maintained with equal successes on both sides, he + had been well content to see Germany watering its soil with the blood of + its people. Nearly a third of the population had been swept away during + the terrible war. Many hundreds of towns and villages had already + disappeared, while large tracts of country lay uncultivated, and whichever + party won a victory France gained by it. Her interest, however, lay with + the Protestant confederation. So long as Germany was cut up into a number + of small principalities, divided by religion and political animosity, she + could count for little against a foreign enemy. + </p> + <p> + France had for centuries suffered from the same cause. The families of + Lorraine, Bouillon, Enghien, Burgundy, the Guises, Longueville, the Counts + of Armagnac, and other powerful vassals of France, paid but a nominal + allegiance to the crown, and were really independent princes. Louis XI had + done much to break their power. Richelieu continued the work, and under + him France for the first time became consolidated into a whole. Had he + lived, the work would doubtless have been completed, but his death and + that of the king postponed the work for years. The long regency, + controlled by a minister possessing none of the courage and firmness of + Richelieu, and personally obnoxious alike to the nobles and to the + population of Paris, again threw the power into the hands of the great + nobles, plunged France into civil strife, and the wars of the Fronde, like + those of the Roses in England, so weakened the nobles that the crown under + Louis XIV became absolutely dominant. + </p> + <p> + Had Austria succeeded in crushing the Protestant princes, that empire, + with all Germany under her control, would have become a power greatly + superior in strength and population to France. It was principally to + prevent this result that Richelieu after the battle of Nordlingen threw + himself into the struggle, but his aim was also to carry the frontier of + France up to the Rhine. Here the territories of the Dukes of Lorraine, and + Bouillon Prince of Sedan, not only cut France off from the Rhine and the + Moselle, but opened a door by which she could at any time be invaded from + Germany. The Dukes of Lorraine had always borne themselves as independent + princes, giving, indeed, a nominal allegiance to France, but as often + allying themselves with German princes as with her. The Duc de Bouillon, + on the north of Lorraine, and the Duke of Savoy, farther to the south, + also regarded themselves as independent. The former, as Huguenots, had a + strong leaning towards the Protestant Hollanders, and both were ready to + furnish asylums to French nobles who had incurred the wrath of their kings + or ministers. + </p> + <p> + The Duc de Bouillon, father of Turenne, had fought bravely on the side of + Henry of Navarre through the wars of the League. He died when the viscount + was but ten years of age, and, his elder brother being but six years + older, his mother became regent of the little state. After having greatly + weakened the strength of the Huguenot nobles by the siege and capture of + La Rochelle, which had long been the stronghold and bulwark of that + religion, Richelieu obtained from the duchess a treaty by which she + engaged to remain always attached to the interests of France, while the + king undertook to protect the house of Bouillon. The Duke of Savoy was + next compelled to hand over to France the town and province of Pignerol, + and Richelieu then turned his attention to Lorraine. The reigning duke had + entered into an alliance with Austria, and the invasion of his territory + was therefore the first step by which France entered into the terrible + struggle known as the Thirty Years' War. + </p> + <p> + The duke had given Richelieu an excuse for hostilities. He had married his + cousin, the nearest heir to the dukedom, but he treated her so badly that + she fled to France and begged the protection of Louis XIII. This he gave + her, a French army was at once set in motion against Lorraine, and it was + in this struggle that Turenne had first fought under the French flag. He + had always evinced the strongest predilection for the life of a soldier, + and when he reached the age of fourteen, Richelieu being at the time + engaged in breaking the power of the Huguenots and in the siege of La + Rochelle, the boy's mother sent him to his uncle Maurice of Nassau, who at + the death of his father had become the leader of the Dutch people. He was + treated by his uncle in exactly the same way as other gentlemen + volunteers, carried a musket, and performed all the duties of a private + soldier. + </p> + <p> + Six months later Prince Maurice died, and his brother, Henry Frederick, + succeeded him in the government of the United Provinces. He at once + promoted his nephew, and the latter speedily rose to the rank of captain + of infantry. Here he was indefatigable in his duties, and unlike most + young men of good family, who left the internal economy and discipline of + their companies to subordinate officers, Turenne saw to everything + himself. He drilled and instructed his soldiers, insisted not only upon + strict military discipline, but on good manners and conduct in every + particular. He won their respect and affection by his personal kindness, + and denied himself almost the necessities of life in order to be able to + add to their comforts. In the wars in the Netherlands there were few + pitched battles, and the operations consisted almost entirely of the + sieges of fortified towns or of measures for their relief. + </p> + <p> + In all these Turenne took much more than his full share, paying attention + not only to his own duties but to all that was being done, spending his + whole time in the batteries and the trenches, and in learning all that was + possible of war carried on under such conditions. In the winter, + operations were always suspended, and Turenne spent his time in Paris, + where his manner and conduct won for him the favour of all with who he + came in contact. He had been severely brought up under a Calvinist tutor; + his habits were simple, his tastes quiet and almost ascetic, and he cared + little for the amusements of the brilliant and corrupt court. When the war + with Lorraine broke out, Turenne at once sought for employment with the + French army. + </p> + <p> + He recognized that there was comparatively little to be done in the war of + sieges in Holland, and longed to enter a wider field. His request was + gladly granted, for the presence of the Duc de Bouillon's brother in the + French army was in itself some guarantee of the duke's fidelity to his + engagements with France, and Turenne was at once appointed to the + colonelcy of a regiment. He devoted himself as assiduously to his work as + he had done in Holland, and it was not long before his regiment gained the + reputation of being the best disciplined in the king's service. He took + part in a short expedition in 1630, but there was on that occasion no + fighting, and he first saw real service under Marshal de la Force in 1634. + After the siege of La Motte, the success of which was due to the storming + of the breach by Turenne and his regiment, and for which exploit he was + promoted to the rank of Marechal de Camp, a rank equivalent to that of + major general, he took part in several sieges, until Lorraine was + completely conquered and its duke driven to abdicate and retire to + Austria. + </p> + <p> + The battle of Nordlingen showed Richelieu that if France did not + resolutely enter into the conflict the Austrians would become absolute + masters of all Germany. He at once signed a treaty with the Swedes, + agreeing to grant them large subsidies to carry on the war. By a similar + treaty he promised subsidies and the province of Alsace to the Duke of + Saxe-Weimar. He entered into an arrangement with the Dutch, who were to + aid France to conquer Flanders, which was to be divided between the two + powers; while the Dukes of Savoy, Parma, and Mantua agreed to undertake, + in alliance with France, the invasion of Milan, and to receive in return a + portion of the territory won from Spain. At the same time France declared + war against Spain. It was to the army commanded by Cardinal de la Valette, + which was to act with that of Saxe-Weimar against the Imperialists, that + Turenne was attached. + </p> + <p> + The campaign began unfavourably. The impetuosity of Saxe-Weimar, who hoped + to recover his own principality, induced Valette to cross the Rhine; but + he was forced to retire in all haste, and the army suffered terribly in + the retreat. Turenne was in command of the advanced guard, and his courage + and activity alone saved the army from complete destruction—seizing + upon defiles, overthrowing the enemy who barred the passages, and enabling + the army to recross the Rhine with numbers diminished only by sickness, + fatigue, and hunger. At the siege of Saverne, Turenne led the French + troops to the attack after three repulses, and succeeded in gaining a + footing in the town, but received himself a very severe wound in the arm + with a musket ball. During the following year several towns were captured + but no decisive operations took place. + </p> + <p> + In 1638, the Duke of Saxe-Weimar gained some great successes, defeated the + Imperialists with heavy loss at Rheinfelden, and besieged Breisach, the + key of southern Germany. The Imperialist army marched to relieve the + place, but reinforcements were sent from France under the command of + Turenne and Longueville. Three battles were fought and the Austrians + driven off. After an assault by Turenne, Breisach capitulated, and all + Alsace had now fallen into the hands of Saxe-Weimar. Having been promised + Alsace he refused, as Richelieu desired, to hand over Breisach to France; + but on the death of the duke in the following year, Richelieu bought over + his lieutenants, the French flag waved over the towns of Alsace, and the + Upper Rhine became the French frontier. Turenne returned to court, where + he was received with enthusiasm, and was a short time afterwards ordered + to Italy to assist De la Valette, who had been faring but badly there. + </p> + <p> + Matters had not gone there as Richelieu had calculated. The Duke of Savoy + remained true to his engagement with France, but he died in October, 1637. + The Spaniards had captured Vercelli, and the emperor had bestowed the + regency of the duchy on the Cardinal of Savoy and on Prince Thomas, + brother-in-law of the duchess. These, supported by the Duke of Modena and + the Governor of Milan, the Marquess of Leganez, declared that they were + determined to protect the people against the French and to deliver the + young duke from French domination. The duchess implored help from France, + and la Valette advanced to her aid. + </p> + <p> + While in Paris, Turenne had obtained from the cardinal permission to raise + a regiment of dragoons and also that a company of dragoons should be + attached to each regiment of cavalry. These troops were not intended to + fight on horseback, but were, in fact, mounted infantry, an arm which, + after being in disuse for many years, has lately been recognized as a very + valuable one, possessing as it does the mobility of cavalry with the + fighting power of infantry. It was at the head of this regiment that the + general started for Italy. The position of affairs in Savoy was dark + indeed, for the whole of Piedmont had risen against the duchess. Many + considerable towns had been captured by the Spanish, others, including the + city of Turin, had opened their gates to them, and with the exception of + Susa, Carignano, Chivasso, Casale, and the citadel of Turin, the whole + country was lost to her. The French forces were, however, too weak to take + the offensive, and the ill health of La Valette deprived him of his former + energy and rendered him unwilling to undertake any offensive movement. + Nevertheless, Turenne's counsels infused a new spirit into the army, and + indeed the news that the young general, whose name was already known + throughout Europe, had arrived, and the belief that his coming would be + followed by that of large reinforcements from France, at once reanimated + the remaining supporters of the duchess and dispirited the Piedmontese, + who began to fear that they had been too hasty in siding with Spain. + </p> + <p> + But if, for the time, Turenne was not in a position to act in the field, + he began at once to take steps to prepare to meet the coming storm. Early + in October La Valette died. The general opinion was that Turenne would + have succeeded to the command, but his brother the Duc de Bouillon had + broken with Richelieu and joined the party opposed to him. When in Paris, + the duke had been on terms of intimate friendship with the Count of + Soissons and had invited him to stay with him at Sedan. The invitation had + been declined, but the count, having been implicated in a plot against + Richelieu, had been obliged to fly and had taken refuge at Sedan, where he + had been most warmly received by the duke. Richelieu had at first invited, + and then in the name of the king commanded, Bouillon to expel his guest. + This the duke absolutely refused to do, and becoming deeply offended at + the manner in which he was pressed, joined the party opposed to Richelieu. + </p> + <p> + It was for this reason that the cardinal decided not to appoint Turenne to + the command, knowing the warm affection that existed between the brothers, + and fearing that Turenne might be influenced by Bouillon, and might, + beloved as he was by the soldiers, lead many of the troops away from their + allegiance were he to join the party opposed to him. He therefore + appointed the Count d'Harcourt to the command. He had proved himself a + brilliant officer on many occasions, and Turenne did not feel in any way + aggrieved at his being placed over him. He made a rapid journey to Paris + to arrange with the cardinal and d'Harcourt the general plan of the + campaign, and was now setting out again to make preparations for it. + </p> + <p> + Hector Campbell enjoyed the journey greatly. His duties were nominal; and + the party always halted at towns, where the troops were billeted upon the + inhabitants, and the viscount and his suite entertained by the + authorities. After crossing the Alps, however, by the pass of Mount Cenis, + and arriving at Susa, his work began in earnest. Turenne himself was + almost entirely occupied in consultations with the duchess; his three + aides-de-camp, however, were kept hard at work carrying messages to the + governors of towns that still adhered to the duchess, with orders for the + strengthening of the defences and for the collection of stores and + provisions in case of siege. Each was provided with three horses, and + almost lived in the saddle. + </p> + <p> + “You seem to be tireless, Campbell,” de Lisle said, when it one day + happened that all three were together at headquarters. “I feel as if I had + not a whole bone in my body; as I have not had a whole night in bed for + the last six days, I can hardly keep my eyes open, while you, who have + been doing as much as we have, are going about as actively as if you had + had nothing to do for a week.” + </p> + <p> + “I have the advantage of riding so much lighter than you do,” Hector said; + “weight tells both on horse and rider, and when the horse is tired his + pace soon adds to the weariness of his rider. If we had had to do this + work when we first left Paris, I have no doubt that I should have felt it, + but the journey here has been a fine preparation. Another thing is, that + every morning I take a dip in the first mountain stream I come to, and + that does one almost as much good as a night's sleep.” + </p> + <p> + De Lisle shivered. “It may do good, Campbell, but I would not jump into + one of these icy streams for anything. It makes one shudder to think of + it.” + </p> + <p> + “I always had a swim in the Seine every morning when it was not closed by + ice,” Hector said. “I was told that there was nothing braced one up and + made one so hardy as that; and I certainly found that even in the coldest + weather I never felt the need of a cloak.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, I don't deny that it may be a good custom, and if all Scotchmen do + it, it may account for their hardiness; but I like comfort when I can get + it.” + </p> + <p> + “But it is not comfort to be always in the saddle, and to feel so sleepy + that you fancy that at any moment you may fall off. Even if a dip in snow + water is, to those unaccustomed to it, somewhat sharp, it is better than + having to struggle against sleep for hours.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, possibly I may try the experiment some day when I feel that I must + either lie down by the roadside and sleep or take a dip, but until I feel + like breaking down altogether I shall postpone the experiment.” + </p> + <p> + Turenne several times spoke approvingly to Hector. On one occasion, when + the lad presented himself on being told that an aide-de-camp was required + to carry a message, Turenne said to him: “But it is not your turn, + Campbell; de Lisle and Chavigny both returned some hours ago, while it is + not an hour since you came in.” + </p> + <p> + “They are both asleep, general,” Campbell said; “they have been thirty-six + hours in the saddle.” + </p> + <p> + “But you have been more than that, Campbell?” + </p> + <p> + “But I do not feel it, sir,” he said. “I am perfectly fresh and ready to + go on. I was a little tired when I came in, but I have taken a swim in the + river, and am now at your service.” + </p> + <p> + Turenne hesitated. “You see, sir,” Hector went on, “being of light weight + the horse does not feel it as he does that of a heavier man, his pace + continues light and elastic, and his spirit good, and that makes all the + difference to the fatigue of his rider. After two days' rest my horses are + perfectly ready for another long day's work, while those of Chavigny and + de Lisle start heavily, not having recovered from their fatigue.” + </p> + <p> + “Very well, you can go then, Campbell. I am pleased with your spirit, and + also with your thoughtfulness for your companions, who, although strong + young men, do not seem to have your power of endurance. I find, too, that + you always carry out your instructions with intelligence, and that your + reports on matters touching which I have sent you to inquire are always + clear and full. It may be that ere long I may find employment for you in + which courage as well as intelligence is required. There is but one + drawback, namely, that you do not speak Italian. I know that there are few + officers in our service who do so; but it would be so much the more + valuable were you able to master it.” + </p> + <p> + “I had intended to study the language, general, as soon as I got here, but + have had no time to begin it.” + </p> + <p> + “That you certainly have not,” Turenne said with a smile. + </p> + <p> + “Do you think that it would be of any use, sir, if I were to take a + Savoyard servant? I find that many of them who come from places near the + frontier speak French as well as their own language.” + </p> + <p> + “That would be useful, certainly; but you would have to be careful in your + choice, and see that you get one whose sympathies are with the duchess; + not only for your own safety, but because a chance word heard here, or an + order given and conveyed to the Spaniards, might involve the loss of a + battle.” + </p> + <p> + “I see that, general, and will be very careful.” + </p> + <p> + Hector had formed the acquaintance of several young officers attached to + the household of the duchess, and on the day following his return from his + mission he was supping with a party of four of them when he said: + </p> + <p> + “Can one of you gentlemen recommend a servant to me? He must be able to + talk French as well as Italian. He must be active and intelligent. I + should like him to be handy and accustomed to camp service, though this is + not so important, for I want him as an interpreter before anything else. I + should like him to be a lightweight, so as to be able to ride with me. He + must be accustomed to fatigue, and he must have courage, for some of the + journeys on which I may be sent will not be without danger, and of course + he must be of the duchess's party.” + </p> + <p> + “And I suppose,” one of the young men said, “that this Admirable Crichton + of whom you are in search must be sober, honest, and truthful. Are you + particular whether he is Huguenot or Catholic?” + </p> + <p> + “As to the last, not a bit. I should like him to be as sober as soldiers + in general are, and if he confined himself to taking his wine when I did + not require him, it would not be very important, provided that he is not + talkative when in liquor. As to his honesty, he would have no great + temptation so far as I am concerned, but I certainly should not wish to + lose him by his being strung up by the provost marshal for robbing + citizens. As to his truthfulness, providing he did not lie to me, it is a + point on which I should not be particular.” + </p> + <p> + There was a general laugh. + </p> + <p> + “And as to his age?” the officer asked. + </p> + <p> + “If I could find all the qualifications that I require, I should not be + particular about that; but I think that for choice I would take a lad of + from sixteen to twenty.” + </p> + <p> + “In that case I fancy that I know a lad who might suit you,” one of the + other officers said. “He is a brother of my groom, and I may own that he + has been of no little trouble to him. The boy is an orphan, and having no + other friends so far as I know, he has attached himself to his brother, + and for the past two years, wherever he has gone Paolo has gone too. He + earns a little money by doing odd jobs—running messages, and so on, + helps his brother to clean the horses; and with an occasional crown from + me, and what he earns otherwise, it cannot be said that he costs his + brother anything in money; but in other respects he is always getting him + into trouble, for he is a very imp of mischief. Two or three times his + brother has obtained places for him, but he always comes back at the end + of a week, and sometimes sooner, with bitter complaints from his master + that he has set the household in a turmoil with his tricks and ill + conduct. Many a thrashing has he had, but they do him no good.” + </p> + <p> + The others laughed. + </p> + <p> + “There is no doubt that Paolo is a perfect young imp,” one of them said, + “but he is as sharp as a needle. I have no doubt that if he could be tamed + he would make a most useful lad. As it is, I certainly would not recommend + anyone who cares for his peace of mind to have anything to do with him.” + </p> + <p> + “I will see him anyhow,” Hector said. “I think that I would rather have a + sharp boy than a man. Being but a boy myself, I could appreciate and put + up with more in the way of mischief than a man could.” + </p> + <p> + “I will tell my groom to bring him round to your quarters in the morning,” + the officer said; “but mind, I in no way recommend your taking him. You + won't keep him a week if you do.” + </p> + <p> + The next morning Hector's orderly told him that a man desired to speak to + him. + </p> + <p> + “Has he a boy with him?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, lieutenant.” + </p> + <p> + “Bring them in here, then.” + </p> + <p> + In a minute a man entered, followed by a boy. The former was a good + looking young Savoyard of some four- or five-and-twenty years; the latter + was a lad of about the same height as Hector but somewhat older. He had + black hair which fell over his forehead down to his eyebrows. His face + bore an expression of extreme humility, which, however, was marred by the + merry twinkle of his dark eyes. + </p> + <p> + “My master has bid me bring my brother with me, Lieutenant Campbell,” the + man said, “and I have done so, but I fear greatly that he will hardly suit + you as a servant. I have obtained a dozen places for him, but he is always + sent back at the end of three or four days, and I told him last time that + I would never say a word in his recommendation again, for that it only + gets me into trouble with the gentlemen.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, that is honest,” Hector said with a smile. “However, I will ask him + a few questions. Now, Paolo, in the first place, could you be faithful?” + </p> + <p> + “I could be faithful to a master I loved,” he said. + </p> + <p> + “In the second place, are you honest?” + </p> + <p> + “He is honest,” the man said, “I will say that for him.” + </p> + <p> + “Are you truthful?” + </p> + <p> + “I am as truthful as other people,” the boy said. + </p> + <p> + “What do you mean by that?” + </p> + <p> + “I mean, sir, that if I were asked a straightforward question I would give + a straightforward answer, unless it were wiser not to do so. I would tell + the truth to my master, but I do not consider it necessary always to do so + to others. For instance, sir, if you were my master, and questions were + asked about you, there might be times when it would not be convenient for + you that I should mention where you had gone, or what you were doing.” + </p> + <p> + “That is so,” Hector said with a laugh. “The important thing for me to + know is, would you always tell me the truth?” + </p> + <p> + “I think that I could promise to do that, sir, or at least to be very near + the truth.” + </p> + <p> + “You understand horses?” + </p> + <p> + “I do, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “And you can ride?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, sir, I can ride and run too. In a long day's journey I should get to + the end on foot nearly as fast as you would on horseback.” + </p> + <p> + “He can make himself useful on a campaign,” the brother said. “He has been + with my master and myself in the field for the last three years, and knows + his work well if he chooses to do it.” + </p> + <p> + “The principal point with me is that which I first asked him about, can he + be faithful? I may have to ride on dangerous missions for the general. I + may have to enter an enemy's town to obtain information. There is another + thing, being of the general's staff, and sometimes quartered in the same + house with him and chatting freely with his other aides-de-camp, secrets + might be picked up by a sharp pair of ears that if repeated would do + grievous harm to the cause of the duchess, as you can well understand. + Now, the question, Paolo, is, can you be absolutely trusted; can you, as + to all matters you may hear, be as one who is deaf and dumb?” + </p> + <p> + “I could, sir,” the boy said earnestly. “I am all for the duchess, and I + hate the Spaniards. I once was found out in a bit of mischief in the + palace, and should have been whipped for it and turned out of the town, + but the duchess herself said that I was only a boy and forgave me, and I + would do anything for her. I would indeed, sir, and I swear that I would + be always honest and truthful with you. I should like you as a master. You + don't speak to me as if I were dirt under your feet, and I am sure by your + voice that you would be kind. Try me, sir; my brother will tell you that I + have never said as much before to anyone to whom he has taken me, for + indeed I never meant to stay with them, preferring my liberty, rough + though my fare may sometimes be.” + </p> + <p> + “I will try you, Paolo. I believe that you are in earnest, and that I can + trust you; but mind, there must be no monkey tricks here. The general must + not be disturbed by the antics of a servant boy. You are likely, in my + service, to have as much excitement and adventure as you can wish for, and + you must behave yourself, for if you do not do so you will be lucky if you + escape with a flogging and being turned out of camp. I am younger than you + are, and am just as fond of a piece of fun, but I know when it is good to + enjoy one's self and when one must put aside boyish pranks. I have my + duties to perform, and do them to the best of my power, and shall expect + you to do the same.” + </p> + <p> + “I will, sir,” the boy said respectfully. “I will give you no cause to + complain of me, at least no wilful cause.” + </p> + <p> + “Then that is settled. Here,” he said to the boy's brother, “are five + pistoles; see that he is decently clad so as to make a fair appearance by + my side. When he is so, let him return here. It were best that he should + come this evening, for it is likely that I shall be away on duty + tomorrow.” + </p> + <p> + “He shall be here, sir,” he said, “and I thank you heartily for engaging + him; and I do think that he means this time to behave himself.” + </p> + <p> + “I do mean it,” the boy said. “You shall have no reason to complain of me, + sir.” + </p> + <p> + Shortly afterwards Hector met the officer who had spoken of the boy. + </p> + <p> + “Well, have you thought anything more of young ne'er-do-well?” + </p> + <p> + “I have engaged him.” + </p> + <p> + “You have, after the warning I gave you? Well, I hope you will not have + reason to repent it.” + </p> + <p> + “I do not think that I shall. I can quite believe that he is a mischievous + young varlet, he shows it in his face; but I am sure that he is shrewd, + and I believe that he will be faithful. At any rate I think that we took + to each other, and that he has made up his mind to try for once to stay in + a place. He really seemed in earnest about it, and if he keeps to his + promises I think that he will be just the sort of lad to suit me.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, we shall see,” the officer said; “but if he turns out badly, please + remember that I warned you against him.” + </p> + <p> + “And if he turns out well,” Hector said with a laugh, “I shall not fail + also to remind you of your prognostications.” + </p> + <p> + That evening when Hector returned to his room after he had finished his + meal, he found Paolo waiting outside his door. His appearance had so + changed that he would not have known him. His hair had been cut short in + the front and left long behind, as was the custom of the day, hanging down + on to his collar. He was neat and tidy. He wore a dark blue doublet + reaching to the hips, with a buff leather belt, in which was stuck a + dagger. His leggings, fitting tightly down to the ankles, were of dark + maroon cloth, and he wore short boots of tanned leather. A plain white + collar, some four inches deep, was worn turned down over the neck of the + doublet, and a yellow cloth cap, with a dark cock's feather, was stuck on + one side of his head. In his hand he held a bundle containing a leather + jerkin and breeches of the same material, and a pair of buff leather + riding boots that would reach to the knee. + </p> + <p> + “Your brother has laid out the money well, Paolo,” Hector said, as he + opened the door and led the way into his room. “I do not think that I + should have known you.” + </p> + <p> + “I am quite sure that I should not have known myself, master, if I had + looked into a horse trough and seen my reflection. It will be a long time + before I shall be able to persuade myself that these clothes are my own, + and that I really am an officer's lackey. Now, master, you must teach me + my duties, of which I know nought when in a house like this, though I know + well enough what they are when you are in the field.” + </p> + <p> + “They are few enough at present, Paolo. Monsieur de Turenne's stablemen + look after the horses of his staff. When I do not dine with him, I and my + two friends, M. de Lisle and M. de Chavigny, dine and sup together at an + inn. There is my room to keep tidy, my bed to make, my armour and arms to + be polished, and my clothes to be brushed. Hitherto, my orderly has done + these things, but it will now be your duty. As I do not eat in my rooms, + it is clear that there is no food for you, and when we are in towns I + shall give you money to pay for your meals at a cabaret.” + </p> + <p> + “I hope, master, that you will soon find something more useful for me to + do, for, in truth, I fear that with so much time on my hands I shall find + it sorely difficult to comport myself as is due to your lackey.” + </p> + <p> + “Do not fear, I have little doubt that you will soon find work enough and + to spare, and indeed you will often ride with me.” + </p> + <p> + Some few days later, the other two aides-de-camp being away, the viscount + requested Hector to accompany him on a tour of inspection that might last + two or three days. He was accompanied by his orderly and three other + troopers, behind who rode two of his own lackeys with baskets of + provisions. With them rode Paolo, Hector having asked the general if he + should take him with him. + </p> + <p> + “You may as well do so, Campbell, it will accustom him to his work. What + made you choose so young a servant?” he asked, as he rode off. + </p> + <p> + “He is a year older than I am, though perhaps not so tall. He is the + brother of a man in the employment of Monsieur de Vevey. He has been + through the last two campaigns. I find him very intelligent. He obeys my + orders promptly, and as he is heart and soul in the cause of the duchess, + I feel sure of his fidelity, especially as he has had a hard time of it up + to now, and is, I think, grateful to me for taking him. He speaks French + very well, and might certainly be of great use to me in any enterprise + that your lordship might be good enough to entrust me with. Being about + the same age, I think that we might perhaps go together unquestioned where + a man would be unable to pass.” + </p> + <p> + The viscount rode on for some minutes without speaking. “There is + something in what you say, Campbell, and after this journey is over I may + be able to employ you in that way when it is necessary to obtain + information I can get in no other manner. Has he ridden with you before?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, sir, he has ridden behind me each time that I have been away since I + engaged him. When I say behind me, he starts behind me, but when out of + town I call him up beside me, and we talk, or rather try to talk, in + Italian—or rather I should say in Piedmontese, for he tells me that + each district of Italy has its own dialect, and that the natives of one + can scarce understand the other. I have bought a book printed here and a + dictionary, and of an evening when I have no duties to perform he comes + into my room, and translates sentence by sentence as I read it to him. I + learn it by heart, and hope that ere long I shall be able to make myself + understood in it.” + </p> + <p> + “You do well—very well,” the viscount said. “If all my young + officers were to do the same, instead of spending the evening and half the + night in drinking and gambling, things would go on much more smoothly, and + there would not be so many blunders in carrying out my orders. You will + greatly add to your usefulness by acquiring a knowledge of the language, + and it would certainly enable you to carry out with far less danger such + commissions as those you were just speaking of; for you might be asked a + question, and if it were replied to by your lackey, suspicions would be at + once aroused. You have ridden along this road before?” + </p> + <p> + “Several times, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “Have you noted the features of the country—I mean from a military + point of view?” + </p> + <p> + “I have nothing else to do as I ride along, sir. As I go I notice where an + ambuscade might be laid, either by ourselves or an enemy, where we might + expect to be opposed on our march forward, or where a rear guard might + check an enemy were we retiring before him.” + </p> + <p> + “Good! the fate of a battle depends in nine cases out of ten upon a + knowledge of the ground, and in quickness in utilizing that knowledge. Our + journey today is only taken for that purpose. I want to see for myself the + country across which we shall at first operate, to inspect the various + routes by which we might advance, or through which, if we find the enemy + in too great a force to be encountered, we should be obliged to retire. As + we go you shall point out to me the observations that you have made, and I + shall be able to judge whether the spots are well chosen for the purpose.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0003" id="link2HCH0003"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER III: THE FIRST BATTLE + </h2> + <p> + During the three days that were spent in reconnoitering the country Hector + Campbell learnt more than he would have done in as many years under + ordinary circumstances. Turenne took the greatest pains to point out to + him how the nature of the ground could be taken advantage of, how flanks + could be protected against attack by comparatively small bodies, occupying + positions from which they could be with difficulty expelled; how important + was the action of guns, especially when so placed as to be able to sweep + the ground across which an enemy must advance in any endeavour to turn the + position of an army. Turenne, on his part, took pleasure in instructing a + pupil who was at once so eager to learn, and who showed himself so apt in + profiting by his teaching. + </p> + <p> + “You see,” he said, “I am concerned rather in defensive positions at + present than in seeing how we could best turn an enemy barring our + advance. Although the greater portion of the dominions of the duchess has + fallen into the hands of the enemy, she is fortunate in that the few + places that remain are those that at once enable her to make a defence + with comparatively small forces; and at the same time, it is possible for + her to receive aid from France, or, if absolutely necessary, for her to + fall back across the Alps. Susa, her headquarters, lying at the mouth of + the valley up which the road over Mount Cenis finds its way, at once + guards the pass and keeps open communication with France. + </p> + <p> + “It is, as it were, the handle of a fan, and can be approached by three + main roads only,—those to Turin, Carignano, and Chivasso. + Unfortunately Turin is in the enemy's hands, but as the duchess's troops + still hold the citadel, an advance could not very well be made until that + has fallen. Chivasso and Carignano are safe from any sudden attack. There + are other minor roads, but so long as these towns are in our hands and + held by strong garrisons, an enemy advancing by any of these roads towards + Susa would be liable to have their communications cut, and their convoys + captured by parties from these fortresses. It has long been a fixed idea + in military operations that an army cannot advance as long as a town near + the line of route is held by the enemy. That idea is an erroneous one, and + several times upon the Rhine we have gained successes by neglecting this + rule and disregarding the towns, contenting ourselves with leaving a force + sufficient to keep the garrison in check. + </p> + <p> + “The Spaniards, however, are slow to change their tactics, good soldiers + as they are. The consequence is that, although greatly superior in force, + last year they made no offensive movement against us. We have had several + regiments join us since we arrived here, and although I believe the + enemy's force to be twice as strong as our own, I have no doubt that the + Count d'Harcourt will as soon as he arrives decide upon taking the + offensive. You see our position here, guarded as it is on both flanks by + the line of mountains, is as favourable for offence as defence, for we can + advance either through Carignano on our right or Chivasso on our left; and + however the enemy may dispose themselves they are vulnerable on one side + or the other.” + </p> + <p> + This anticipation was justified. D'Harcourt arrived three days later. A + council of war was held, and it was decided that an advance should at once + be made against the enemy. The main body of the Spanish troops were posted + in a fortified camp at Villanova, halfway between Asti and Turin. Leaving + only a small body of troops to guard the lower valley of Susa from an + attack by the Spaniards at Turin, the army advanced to Carignano, and + thence towards Villanova. The Spaniards, however, although nearly twice as + strong as the French, were so much surprised at the boldness of this + proceeding that instead of marching out to give battle they contented + themselves with strengthening still further the defences of their camp, + and in order to force them to come out d'Harcourt advanced to Chieri—called + by the French Quiers—a town situated between Villanova and Turin, + and about two leagues distant from each. + </p> + <p> + Turenne was in command of the cavalry, and took post between Chieri and + Villanova. The Spaniards, however, made no effort to relieve the town, + which capitulated after a resistance of only two or three days. While the + siege was proceeding, a large convoy of provisions succeeded, unmolested, + in making its way to Casale, and thus placed the garrison there in a + position to hold out for several weeks to come. But a very small store of + provisions was found in Chieri, and the army was forced to fall back + towards Carignano to obtain food from the stores collected there. The + Marquis of Leganez, whose headquarters were at Asti, knowing that the + French had sent all the stores they had brought with them to Casale, had + foreseen that this would be the case, and advancing rapidly with the + troops from Villanova seized Poirino, on the line by which the French + would retire, while at the same time Prince Thomas, who commanded at + Turin, advanced with the greater portion of his troops, and marched + towards the little river Santina, intending to cross there. Thus the + French army could not retire on Carignano without exposing both flanks to + the attack of the enemy. + </p> + <p> + During the short campaign Hector had ridden behind Turenne, and shared in + the general disappointment of the army when the enemy refused to accept + their offer of battle, and still more so when after the capture of Chieri + it became necessary to retreat. His two fellow aides-de-camp loudly + bewailed the bad fortune that thus obliged them to retire without having + effected anything beyond the capture of an insignificant town, which, + however, had the advantage of opening a way for them into the heart of the + country then held by the enemy. + </p> + <p> + “You seem to take it rather philosophically, Campbell,” de Lisle said to + Hector, as he remained silent while they were bemoaning their fate. + </p> + <p> + “I do not see that it is of any use taking it otherwise. At least we have + had the satisfaction of bearding the Spaniards, who indeed seem to me to + behave wisely in remaining in their intrenchments and waiting until they + can unite all their forces against us. However, we have shown them that we + are not afraid of them, and that even in the middle of November we are so + eager to meet them that we have hastened to take the field and to strike a + blow before winter sets in in earnest; but I think it possible that we may + have a fight yet before we get back. Leganez has the reputation of being a + good general, and he may yet combine his troops at Asti with those of + Villanova and Turin and try to cut us off from Carignano.” At this moment + Turenne suddenly entered the room. + </p> + <p> + “To horse, gentlemen! News has come that Prince Thomas is marching at the + head of three thousand foot and fifteen hundred horse to cut us off, and + that Leganez is moving with all speed towards Poirino with the same + object. Carry my orders for a thousand cavalry and as many infantry to be + ready to march at once. We must be beforehand with Prince Thomas.” + </p> + <p> + In ten minutes the cavalry and infantry selected were in movement, and + Turenne, placing himself at the head of the former, rode on at a gallop, + and keeping on at full speed with his cavalry, occupied the bridge before + Prince Thomas came up. On his arrival, the latter, having with him three + thousand foot and fifteen hundred horse, prepared to attack, but before he + did so Turenne's infantry arrived. The Spaniards attacked with fury, but + Turenne's troops stood firm and repulsed them, and as soon as they fell + back charged in turn, broke the enemy, and drove them in headlong rout + towards Turin. Prince Thomas himself was twice unhorsed and thrown into a + ditch, but it was now almost dark, his rank was unrecognized, and he + succeeded in making his escape and rejoining his scattered troops. + </p> + <p> + While this fight was going on, d'Harcourt had attacked the Marquis of + Leganez and gained a considerable advantage, but not knowing how the fight + was going on at Santina did not venture to advance towards the Po. As + soon, however, as a messenger from Turenne brought him news that Prince + Thomas had been defeated he continued his march towards Carignano. He was + speedily joined by Turenne's horse, which took up the duty of rear guard + and checked the Spaniards, who were pressing on in hopes of attacking the + French as they crossed the river. He held them at bay until d'Harcourt had + got all his guns and baggage wagons across the river, and then, following + him, broke down the bridge and joined him at Carignano. Here the army went + into winter quarters. + </p> + <p> + D'Harcourt, whose health was bad, retired to pass the winter at Pinerolo, + leaving the command in the hands of Turenne, who again established himself + at Susa, and began to make preparations for throwing a convoy of + provisions into the citadel of Turin. + </p> + <p> + During the fight at Santina Hector remained behind Turenne, while the two + young Frenchmen, carried away by their ardour, joined in the hot pursuit + of the enemy. The prince, who had led the charge, had halted. + </p> + <p> + “Are you alone here, Monsieur Campbell?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “Where are de Lisle and Chavigny?” + </p> + <p> + “They rode on with the cavalry, sir.” + </p> + <p> + Turenne frowned. + </p> + <p> + “You have done well to remain. An aide-de-camp's place is to carry orders, + not to fight. Now, sir, ride at once to the count. I hear his battle is + still going on. Tell him that I have defeated and scattered the troops of + the prince, and that as soon as I can gather my men I shall march to join + him.” + </p> + <p> + Hector bowed, turned his horse and galloped off, while the general rode + on, sending every officer he overtook in search of the cavalry with orders + that they were to abandon the pursuit and return instantly. That evening + after they had entered Carignano he called de Lisle and Chavigny into his + room. + </p> + <p> + “Gentlemen,” he said, “you will have to choose whether you remain with me + or join one of the cavalry regiments. If you remain with me, you must bear + in mind in future that you are my aides-de-camp, and that your sole duty + here is to carry my orders, and not to fight like troopers in a battle. It + is through hotheadedness of this sort that battles are lost. A general, + without officers to carry his orders, can do nothing towards controlling + the movements of his troops in battle, of following up a victory or + covering a defeat.” + </p> + <p> + The two young officers hung their heads and murmured their excuses. + </p> + <p> + “Enough, gentlemen,” Turenne said. “I am perfectly aware that it was your + ardour that carried you away, but ardour is a bad leader. Over and over + again the ardour of cavalry to pursue the troops they have defeated has + brought about the loss of a battle. Courage is a virtue, and most soldiers + possess it, but steadiness and coolness are rarer and more useful, and on + the part of officers on a general's staff are absolutely indispensable. I + doubt not that you will remember this in future, and that I shall not have + reason to complain of you again.” + </p> + <p> + The next morning it was Hector's turn to be in attendance on the general. + </p> + <p> + “You behaved as I expected you would do,” Turenne said, when he entered + his room on hearing the bell sound. “You fought close to me as long as + there was fighting to be done, and I observed that you used your sword + well. The moment I drew rein you did the same, and took up your post + behind me, showing that although this was your first battle you retained + your coolness. I will therefore tell you in confidence that Count + d'Harcourt has enjoined me to throw provisions, if possible, into the + citadel at Turin. It will take me some time to make arrangements, and my + only fear is that the garrison, on hearing that we have retired across the + Po—of which you may be sure the Spaniards will take care to inform + them—may believe that we shall do no more this winter; and as we + know that their provisions must be well nigh exhausted, they will abandon + the citadel and march thither. + </p> + <p> + “It is now well nigh eighteen months since they were first cut off. It is + certain that their investment is a very close one, and that the most + vigilant watch is used to prevent news of any kind from reaching them from + the outside. We have made several efforts to communicate with them, but + without success. Some of the messengers we sent never returned, and were, + doubtless, detected and killed. Others came back and reported their + failure, saying that every avenue to the citadel was so closely watched + that it was impossible to get through.” + </p> + <p> + “Have you any objection, general, to my mentioning this matter to my boy? + I am absolutely convinced that he is thoroughly faithful and trustworthy.” + </p> + <p> + “You may do so if you like, Campbell, though it is hardly likely that he + will be able to suggest any method of communication with the garrison that + has not already been tried.” + </p> + <p> + “Thank you, sir.” + </p> + <p> + The general shortly afterwards went out to wait upon the duchess; in two + hours he returned, and as soon as he did so Hector entered his room. + </p> + <p> + “What is it?” Turenne asked. + </p> + <p> + “I have been thinking about what you said about the garrison of Turin. I + have been talking it over with Paolo, and have come to offer to do my best + to deliver a letter from you to the garrison if you will do me the great + honour to entrust the mission to me. We both think that two boys would be + much more likely to succeed than men. No one would regard them with + suspicion; and they could creep and crawl more easily. I do not say that + we should succeed, but I think that we should have some chance of doing + so. At any rate I am willing to try.” + </p> + <p> + “It would be a very dangerous expedition,” Turenne said gravely. + </p> + <p> + “Not more dangerous than going into a battle, viscount. Not a quarter as + dangerous as storming a breach.” + </p> + <p> + Turenne smiled. “The idea has passed through my mind,” he said, “but I + should not have proposed it had you not first spoken. It is the sort of + mission in which I thought you could be made useful, but it is a rough + adventure to begin with, and you must not minimize the danger. It is the + duty of a soldier to run the risk of being killed in battle, but it lies + beyond his duty to go into the enemy's camp to obtain news. He may + volunteer for it, but with a knowledge that if detected he would assuredly + be hanged.” + </p> + <p> + “I do not think, general, that the risk of detection would be great, but + the risk of failure would be so. If when we get there we can see no + possible means of passing through the line of sentries, there would be + nothing to do but to come back, and I own that in talking it over the + thought that I might be obliged to return and to tell you that I had + failed occupied a much larger portion of my thoughts than the risk of + being detected.” + </p> + <p> + “But I shall not expect you to succeed, Campbell; the chances are a + hundred to one against it. I should be glad, however, to have the + experiment tried once again, so that if the garrison capitulates before we + arrive to its succour, I shall not be able to blame myself for not having + made one more effort to induce them to hold out for another few weeks. + Have you thought of your plans?” + </p> + <p> + “Only so far, sir, that we shall dress up as two country boys, cross the + Po, and enter the city from the other side. After that we must be guided + by circumstances and trust to good luck. May I ask, general, if you have a + plan of the city and fortress?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes; at least the duchess has one, which she has placed at my disposal. I + can send an officer to the palace to request her to let me have it. No + doubt it would be a great advantage to you to study the position + beforehand.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, sir, we will see about getting our disguises at once.” + </p> + <p> + “I will give you an order on the paymaster for a hundred crowns for + special service,” Turenne said. “It is as well to be amply provided with + money, as it may be necessary to buy fresh disguises or to bribe someone + to conceal you;” and he drew an order on the treasury and handed it to + Hector. + </p> + <p> + “You will find the plan of the town in your room when you return.” + </p> + <p> + Paolo was waiting for him. + </p> + <p> + “It is settled, Paolo; we are to go.” + </p> + <p> + “This is an adventure after my own heart,” the boy said with delight. “It + will be great fun to outwit the Spaniards.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, but we must mind that they don't outwit us, Paolo, which is quite as + likely. Now let us talk of our disguises again. I think you had better go + and buy them. I would rather get old ones than new. I don't suppose that + anyone is likely to take notice of me in the streets, but it would be well + at any rate that we should not both have new clothes, and better that + neither of us did so.” + </p> + <p> + “I can manage that, sir. There are shops here where one can buy old + clothes as well as new ones. I noticed one the other day in a narrow + street by the wall. I wondered then who would buy some of the garments + hung up. They were so old and so often mended that it was difficult to say + what was the original colour. The people are very poor up in the + mountains; since the war began, doubtless they have grown poorer, and are + glad to buy anything that will cover them.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, here are ten crowns.” + </p> + <p> + “They won't cost half that, master, but I will take them.” + </p> + <p> + “Mind and get something warm, Paolo; it is like enough that we shall have + to sleep more than once in the open air, and the winds are bitterly cold.” + </p> + <p> + In half an hour the officer came with the plan, which Hector at once set + to to study. The citadel stood on ground but little, if at all, higher + than that upon which the town was situated. It was pentagonal in form, and + was built in 1565, and was the earliest fortification in Europe in this + style, and was considered a masterpiece. It was separated from the town by + its glacis. A deep fosse ran along the foot of the wall. The town itself + was walled, and extended to the foot of the citadel, and was capable of + offering a sturdy resistance even after the citadel had fallen, just as + the citadel could protect itself after the capture of the town by an + enemy. Hector examined carefully that portion of the town facing the + citadel, and took notes of the streets that ran through to the walls, + specially noting those which extended farthest from the wall before being + broken by cross lanes. + </p> + <p> + It was evident from the width of the streets that this was the poorest + quarter of the town, for the wealthy would not care to build their houses + in a position where, if the town and citadel were hostile to each other, + they would be exposed to the fire of the latter's guns. + </p> + <p> + In another half hour Paolo returned with a large bundle. It contained two + coarse cotton shirts, two warm garments resembling waistcoats, and + fastened by strings closing up to the neck, two red sashes of coarse + flannel, and two loose doublets reaching down to the hips. These were worn + and patched, but had been newly lined with sheepskin. The breeches, which + reached down to the knee, were of coarse brown cloth; to cover the leg + below the knee were bands of gray flannel which were wrapped round and + round the leg and foot, while over these were worn wooden shoes. The hats + were of conical shape with wide brims, and both, like the clothes, bore + signs of long wear. + </p> + <p> + “It could not have been better, Paolo,” Hector said as he examined them. + “I have seen scores of boys so dressed, and we shall certainly attract no + attention by our garb. They are warm, too, and we sha'n't come to any harm + from sleeping out in them.” + </p> + <p> + “They cost more than I expected, master, owing to the doublets being + freshly lined, but I thought it would be worth it.” + </p> + <p> + “Quite right! those sheepskins will be most useful. There is one thing + more we shall want, a thin rope, that will bear our weight well, some + twenty yards long. You had better go to a smith's and get him to make a + strong iron hook, by which we can fix the rope on to the edge of a wall + should it be needed. You had better have it made a good nine inches across + the hook, and the shank fifteen inches long.” + </p> + <p> + After again studying the map he took it to the general. + </p> + <p> + “We have our disguises, sir, and shall be ready to start tomorrow + morning.” + </p> + <p> + “You have lost no time,” the general said approvingly. “You will, of + course, ride to Chivasso. I will give you an order to the governor there, + to take charge of your horses and clothes, telling him that you are about + to proceed on a mission in disguise, and requesting him to send an officer + to pass you through the outposts beyond the bridge across the Po, that is + if the other side is not guarded by the Spanish troops. I should advise + you to make straight south so as to strike the road from Casale two miles + west of Turin. I do not like letting you go, lad, and yet I feel it is of + such importance that the garrison should know that aid will be at hand + before long, that I feel I ought not to prevent you from carrying out your + enterprise. When do you think of starting?” + </p> + <p> + “At eight in the morning, sir. If we do so we shall easily reach Chivasso + before dark, and may be near Turin by morning.” + </p> + <p> + “I will have my note for the commandant ready by the time your horses are + at the door. I will make it as small as possible, and you had better + before you start sew it up in the lining of your coat, so that if you are + searched—which I own I do not think to be likely, unless in some + other way you excite the suspicions of the Spaniards—it may not be + found upon you.” + </p> + <p> + “I think, sir, that I would rather make it into a little pellet which I + can swallow. I fancy that if they were suspicious enough to search me they + would rip all the linings open.” + </p> + <p> + “That would be a better way certainly, Campbell; I see that you have + thought the matter over thoroughly. Of course, you will take no arms with + you.” + </p> + <p> + “Nothing but a long knife each. Every peasant carries one, and it may be + possible that we shall be compelled to silence a sentinel. If you would + not mind, sir, I should like to have six copies of your letter to the + commandant. I could manage to swallow six as well as one, and as it is not + likely that I shall be able to enter the citadel it would be as well to + give them a better chance of finding the letter if I have to try to shoot + or throw it in.” + </p> + <p> + “That shall be done; we will use the thinnest paper, so that if you have + to swallow them you can do so without difficulty.” + </p> + <p> + “If I find that I cannot by any possibility get my message in through the + town, sir, I shall try to cross the river and so make my way in on that + side.” + </p> + <p> + “That would be even more dangerous than the other,” Turenne said. “On that + side an even stricter watch is likely to be kept than on that facing the + town, for the Spaniards know that the garrison is not strong enough to + attempt any enterprise against the city, while it might at any moment + attempt to break out and march away on the other side. + </p> + <p> + “I own that I do not see myself how you can possibly succeed in either + case, but assuredly there must be more chance on the side of the town. I + have been thinking it over, and will order a troop of cavalry to ride with + you to Chivasso, for the Spanish horse from time to time make forays from + Turin, carry off prisoners, and burn villages. Until we are in a position + to make a general advance it is impossible to check these attacks without + keeping the whole of our cavalry massed near Turin, and wearing out horses + and men by the necessity for perpetual vigilance. And now, goodbye; may + fortune attend you! Do not be too rash. The letters shall be sent you in + an hour's time.” + </p> + <p> + As they issued out from Susa they found the troop of cavalry awaiting + them. The officer in command was well known to Hector, and said: + </p> + <p> + “So it is you that I am to escort to Chivasso, Monsieur Campbell?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes; I am sorry to give you occasion for so much trouble.” + </p> + <p> + “No trouble at all; we have not been in the saddle for the past week, and + a ride to Chivasso will make a pleasant change. Besides, I have a brother + in the garrison there, so that altogether I shall be your debtor. You see, + we are not allowed to ride beyond St. Ambrogio, or Rivoli at farthest, for + once beyond that, we should be liable to be caught by the enemy's scouting + parties. Of course we have a strong force at Rivoli, but except to drive + off small parties of the enemy who may venture to come up too close, they + are forbidden to engage in any affairs. It is annoying, but one can + understand that the general is anxious to avoid encounters in which the + enemy is sure to be superior in force, until his reinforcements come up + and we are able to take the field in earnest.” + </p> + <p> + “I do not think we shall be otherwise than inferior in force even when our + last regiment comes up,” Hector said. “What with Holland and the Rhine and + the frontier of Spain, it is clear that the cardinal must have as much as + he can do to enable all our commanders to make head against the enemy, and + it is no secret that beyond one more regiment of cavalry that will arrive + with Count d'Harcourt, no other reinforcements are likely to reach us for + some time to come. But then, you see, we have Turenne as well as + d'Harcourt, and each of them ought to count for two or three thousand + men.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, I would rather fight against long odds,” the officer said, “than be + kept here month after month doing nothing. Here is winter coming on, and I + suppose that will put a stop to everything.” + </p> + <p> + “I should hardly think so,” Hector replied. “I am sure that the viscount + is as eager for action as we are, and winter here is not the same thing as + in Holland or on the Rhine. From what I hear there is very little snow in + the plains; and as the country is generally flat, an army could march + almost as easily as in summer, and in some respects they would be better + off.” + </p> + <p> + “How do you mean?” + </p> + <p> + “I mean that in summer the barns would be all empty of food until filled + again by the harvest, whereas in winter they would be all well stocked + with forage for the cattle and horses.” + </p> + <p> + “You are right, Monsieur Campbell. Certainly there should be nothing to + prevent our operating through the winter, and I shall look forward even + more eagerly than I did before for d'Harcourt's return. Will you come back + with us tomorrow from Chivasso?” + </p> + <p> + “That will depend upon circumstances. I think it is more probable that I + shall not return to Susa for a few days; my orders are to report myself to + the governor.” + </p> + <p> + No bodies of the enemy's cavalry were met with on the way, and at four + o'clock in the afternoon they rode into Chivasso. They alighted at the + commandant's, and on stating that he was the bearer of a despatch from the + general Hector was at once shown in. As he had more than once ridden there + with despatches from Turenne, he was known to the officer. + </p> + <p> + “We heard of the victory three days since,” the latter said, as Hector + handed him the despatch, “and fired a salvo of guns in honour of it. An + Italian deserter from the other side brought the news. The two generals + were unwounded, I hope?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, colonel, and our losses were altogether slight.” + </p> + <p> + The commandant opened the despatch. He looked a little surprised at its + contents. “So you are going to endeavour to pass a message into the + citadel. It is a difficult undertaking. The enemy's watch is a very + vigilant one. Once or twice during the siege men have succeeded in + swimming the Po and evading the enemy's guards, but of late these have + been doubled, for it is thought that the garrison may attempt to break + out. On the town side the firing has all but ceased; they know that the + store of provisions is almost exhausted, and regard it as a waste of + powder and shot to continue their cannonade, which only results in the + citadel answering it, and that with very much more effect than the Spanish + guns produce. May I ask if you have any plan of getting in?” + </p> + <p> + “No, sir, we must decide upon that when we see how matters stand.” + </p> + <p> + “Who is the we?” the colonel asked. + </p> + <p> + “Myself and my servant, who is a very sharp and intelligent lad whom I can + thoroughly trust. Alone I could do nothing, for I have only picked up a + few phrases in Italian yet, and should be detected at once; so anything + that has to be said must be said by him. May I ask, sir, if the enemy are + in force on the other side of the bridge? if so, we must cross by + swimming, either above or below it.” + </p> + <p> + “No; there was a regiment there until three days ago, but they marched + away, and no doubt formed a portion of Prince Thomas's force. They know + well enough that although our garrison can hold the walls, we are not + strong enough to undertake any enterprise.” + </p> + <p> + “Then, sir, we have only to ask for an escort for a mile or so beyond the + other side of the bridge, in case a company should have been left to watch + the road. Beyond that we will dismount and proceed on foot. We will, if + you please, put on our disguises here, with the exception of our hats, and + perhaps you will lend us a couple of long cloaks, so that our appearance + may not be noticed. Although we shall not start until after dark, it is as + well to be upon the safe side. Maybe the enemy have spies in the town, and + were it noticed that two young peasants rode out under the escort of a + troop of cavalry news might be sent to Turin. In that case we might be + arrested as soon as we entered the city. I should be obliged if you would + give orders to the officer in command that one of the troopers should + bring the horses, cloaks, and hats back here with him.” + </p> + <p> + The governor rang a bell, and on an orderly entering said: “Tell Captain + Sion to have his troop in readiness to start in an hour's time, in order + to form an escort for one of Viscount Turenne's officers, and tell him + that when he has the troop ready to start he is to come to me for detailed + orders. I have said an hour, Monsieur Campbell,” he went on, after the + orderly had left the room, “because, in the first place, it is not yet + dark, and in the second, it will take some twenty minutes to prepare a + meal. You will have a long night's work before you, and I dare say you + have had nothing since you halted for breakfast.” + </p> + <p> + “Thank you, colonel, I had not thought of it; but I should certainly have + remembered it before tomorrow morning. We halted for breakfast at eleven, + and if it had not been for your kind offer we should have had no chance of + getting anything till we entered Turin, and even there the less we go into + any cabarets the better.” + </p> + <p> + “That is true. I have sent a message to the cook that twenty minutes is + the utmost we can give for the preparation of a meal.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0004" id="link2HCH0004"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER IV: SUCCESS + </h2> + <p> + Although the governor apologized to Hector for the poorness of the repast + and the haste with which it had been prepared, it was really excellent, + consisting of soup, some fish fresh from the river, a cutlet, and an + omelette, with a bottle of good wine of Asti. Paolo's wants had been + attended to in the kitchen. It was six o'clock when they started. The + officer in command had already received his instructions, and the governor + accompanied Hector to the door, where two horses were standing saddled. + </p> + <p> + “They are not your own,” he said, “but are two of mine. I thought that + yours had made a sufficiently long journey today.” + </p> + <p> + Thanking him for his kindness, Hector mounted, and took his place by the + side of Captain Simon, while Paolo fell in with the orderlies riding close + behind. + </p> + <p> + “I presume, monsieur, that you are going to obtain some information for + Viscount Turenne. I don't want to ask any questions as to the nature of + your mission, but as I have orders to bring back with the horses your + cloaks and hats, I presume that in the first place you are going on foot, + and in the second, you are going in disguise.” + </p> + <p> + “Your judgment is correct, captain. The viscount wishes to obtain certain + information, and I am going to fetch it for him, if I can.” + </p> + <p> + “I hope that you will be successful, sir. It is a good night for + travelling, the stars are bright and the moon down, so that you will have + light enough to keep the road, and time enough to step aside should you + meet any party who might be inclined to question all passersby.” + </p> + <p> + “Do you know the roads well about here?” Hector asked. + </p> + <p> + “I was stationed in Turin before the enemy came with too great a force to + be resisted.” + </p> + <p> + “I want to strike across the country, and to come into the road from Turin + to Casale at a distance of three or four miles from the city.” + </p> + <p> + “A mile or so away a road branches off from this which keeps by the river. + It is a mere country road, and except in two or three small villages that + you will pass through, you are not likely to meet with anyone upon it. It + is about eight miles to the main road from the point where you turn off, + and you will then be five miles from Turin. It is just possible that you + may meet patrols, but I should think it very unlikely; now that our army + has gone into winter quarters at Carignano, they are not likely to be very + vigilant.” + </p> + <p> + As they rode along Hector related some of the incidents of the late + battle. No signs of the enemy were met with, and the officer presently + said, “I am sorry to say that this is the point where you leave us, + monsieur. I wish it had been a little farther, so that I could hear more + of the fight.” + </p> + <p> + Hector and Paolo dismounted. Two troopers were called up and took charge + of their horses, while the cloaks and hats were given to the officer's + orderly, then the two lads put on the Savoyard hats they had carried under + their cloaks. The officer took two packets from his holster. + </p> + <p> + “The colonel bade me give this to you at starting,” he said. “He thought + that after a long walk on foot you would want some slight refreshment + before the inns were open in the morning.” + </p> + <p> + “Will you please give him my hearty thanks for his thoughtfulness,” Hector + said, “and accept the same yourself for your courtesy in escorting me.” + </p> + <p> + “Now we are fairly on our way, Paolo,” he went on as he turned down the + lane, for it was little more; “this package is a bottle of wine, and the + one that I have handed to you contains the eatables.” + </p> + <p> + “That is good, master. We shall find it pretty cold before morning, and + there is nothing like a good meal to warm one up again.” + </p> + <p> + “Did you get the bow and arrows at Chivasso?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, sir. I went out and bought them as soon as we got there. I wanted + them, I told the man, for a boy of ten years old, but all he had were a + good deal too long, which I was glad of, for a child's bow would hardly + have been strong enough, so I made him cut one down until it was not more + than three feet long. That way I shall be able, as we agreed, to carry it + under my doublet. Of course it will make me walk stiffly, and there will + be no possibility of sitting down, but that matters not at all. It is all + the stronger, and will send an arrow a good distance. I have got six + arrows as you ordered me. They are regular arrows, but I made the man + shorten them so as to suit the bow, and then repoint them. I have got them + inside my doublet. I tied them together, made a hole in the lining under + the arm, and put them in.” + </p> + <p> + “You have not forgotten the cord, I hope, Paolo?” + </p> + <p> + “Not I, master. I should have deserved having my ears cut off if I had + done so.” + </p> + <p> + They were in no hurry, and walked only fast enough to keep themselves + warm. In two hours and a half they arrived at the main road and turned to + the right. “Now we will go another couple of miles, Paolo, and then look + out for a sleeping place. An empty barn or stable or a stack of fodder is + what we want. We may as well sleep warm as cold. We shall not want to be + moving on till seven o'clock.” + </p> + <p> + After walking three miles they came upon a small village. + </p> + <p> + “Do you stay here, master, I will go round and see if I can find a place. + I am more accustomed to these villages than you are.” + </p> + <p> + In five minutes he returned. “I have found a capital place,” he said. “It + is a stable, but it is empty. No doubt the Spaniards have taken the + horses, and are using them in their transport wagons.” + </p> + <p> + “It is enough for us that the place is empty, Paolo.” + </p> + <p> + The door stood ajar. They entered and closed it behind them, and they then + felt about until they found a pile of rough fodder. They pulled some of + this aside, lay down and covered themselves up with the stalks they had + removed, and in three minutes were fast asleep, for they had had a long + day's work. Hector slept until he was awakened by Paolo, who said, “The + day is breaking, and the village will be astir in a few minutes.” The + weather had changed, and as they stepped out fine flakes of snow were + drifting through the air, and the ground was already whitened. They + regained the road and walked along until they came to a wood. + </p> + <p> + “We may as well wait here and breakfast, Paolo.” The parcel was opened and + found to contain a cold capon and some bread, and on these and the wine + they made a capital breakfast, each taking a long sip at the bottle to the + health of the colonel. “The market people are beginning to come along, and + we may as well buy something from them going in. If we have not something + to sell it is not unlikely that we shall be asked questions.” It was now + broad daylight, and they saw several peasants pass along the road, some + with baskets, others driving a pig or a goat. + </p> + <p> + “Either of these would do,” Hector said; “but we don't know where the + market is, and it would never do to seem ignorant of that.” The snow had + stopped suddenly some minutes before, and the sun was now shining. + </p> + <p> + “That is lucky,” Hector said as they walked down towards the road, “we may + hope that there will be no more snow and that the sun will soon melt what + has fallen. It would be fatal to us if the ground were white, for the most + careless sentry could not help seeing us upon it.” + </p> + <p> + They reached the road just as a peasant came along. He was an old man, and + was dragging behind him a pile of faggots, which were placed upon two + rough poles. He was walking between these, holding two ends in his hands, + while the others trailed along on the ground behind. + </p> + <p> + “Bargain with him, Paolo.” + </p> + <p> + “That is a heavy load, father,” the latter said. + </p> + <p> + “Ay, it is heavy.” + </p> + <p> + “How much do you expect to get for your faggots in the town?” + </p> + <p> + “I shall get a crown,” the man said. “I would not take under, and they + ought to be worth more than that now the snow has begun to fall.” + </p> + <p> + “We are going into the town,” Paolo said. “We are younger than you, and + between us we could drag it along easily. I have got a crown in my pocket + to buy some things with. I don't mind giving it to you for your load. If I + can sell the faggots for a few soldi over that we shall be able to buy + something for ourselves.” + </p> + <p> + “It is a bargain, lad,” the old man said. “I am getting old and the + rheumatism is in my bones, and I shall be very glad to be spared the + journey; so give me your money and take the poles. I hope you will be + successful, and sell them a little higher. You had better ask a crown and + a half. The women are sure to beat you down, but you will make ten or + twelve soldi for yourselves.” + </p> + <p> + Paolo handed the crown to the old man. + </p> + <p> + “How had we better take this, Paolo?” Hector asked, as the old man, + chuckling with satisfaction at having escaped a toilsome journey, turned + to retrace his steps. + </p> + <p> + “There is room for us both between the shafts,” Paolo said, “one behind + the other. It would be much easier to walk holding both poles than for us + both to take one, as in that way the weight will be balanced on each side + of us.” + </p> + <p> + There was indeed just room between the ends of the poles and the pile of + brushwood for them to walk close behind each other, and as the greater + portion of the weight rested on the other ends of the poles they did not + find the burden a heavy one. + </p> + <p> + “How are we going to sell these, Paolo?” + </p> + <p> + “We shall have no difficulty in selling them, master. This frost will set + every housewife on the lookout for wood, and you will find that we sha'n't + have to go far before we are accosted.” + </p> + <p> + It was two miles from the spot where they had bought the faggots to the + gates of Turin. + </p> + <p> + “I sha'n't be sorry to get rid of this load,” Hector said. “It is not the + weight but the roughness of the poles. My hands are quite chafed by them.” + </p> + <p> + “Loose your hold for a bit, master. My hands have been accustomed to rough + work, and many a load of faggots have I drawn in my time.” + </p> + <p> + “I will hold on, Paolo. It is not more than a quarter of a mile farther. + My hands have done plenty of work, too, but it has been done with smooth + handled weapons. It is well that they should become accustomed to harder + work.” + </p> + <p> + They passed without a question through the gate, and following the example + of other vendors of wood, of whom they saw several, Paolo began to shout, + “Large faggots for sale!” + </p> + <p> + It was not long before a door opened and a woman beckoned him. + </p> + <p> + “How much do you want for the whole?” + </p> + <p> + “A crown and a half,” Paolo said. + </p> + <p> + “I have been offered as many for a crown,” the woman replied. + </p> + <p> + “Then, signora, you did wrong to refuse. It took two days' work to cut + them, and we have dragged them here for miles. Two crowns would not pay + for the labour. Not one scudo would I take under the price that I have + named. Why, if the town is besieged these faggots would be worth twenty + crowns before the winter is over.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, I will give you the money,” the woman said. “It is extortionate. + Generally I can buy them at half that price.” + </p> + <p> + “I do not say no to that,” Paolo laughed, “but with two armies wanting + firewood and cutting down the copses without even taking trouble to ask + leave of their owners, I think that you will see firewood very scarce in + the city before long.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, carry it in and pile it in the yard.” + </p> + <p> + This was soon done, the poles were thrown on to the top of the heap, and + the boys went off along the street again. + </p> + <p> + “We have made half a crown for ourselves,” Paolo laughed; “now we must + decide how we shall spend it.” + </p> + <p> + “It would be a good plan to spend some money anyhow,” Hector said. “What + kind of things would you be likely to buy for your family in the country?” + </p> + <p> + “Well, I should say a cooking pan to begin with, and a few yards of warm + stuff for making my mother a skirt.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, buy the cooking pan first and sling it across your shoulder, and + then as we wander about we can look in the shops and it will seem as if we + were on the search for articles that we had been told to purchase; it + would be better than sauntering about without any apparent object. But + first let us walk briskly towards the side of the town facing the citadel. + The Strada Vecchia is the one that I want to examine first.” + </p> + <p> + The knowledge that he had gained from the plan of the city enabled Hector + to find the street without their having to ask any questions. + </p> + <p> + “Now, buy your cooking pan at the next smith's shop you come to, and then + we can go slowly along making our observations.” + </p> + <p> + They soon found that the street they had entered was, for the most part, + deserted by its inhabitants. The shops were all closed, the road was + strewn with fallen chimneys and balconies, and here and there were yawning + holes showing how severely the street had suffered when the artillery duel + was going on between the guns on the walls and those of the citadel. A + short distance down the street a chain was stretched across it, and here a + musketeer was pacing up and down on guard. Two others could be seen at the + farther end of the street, where there was a gateway in the wall, now + closed up with sandbags piled thickly against it. + </p> + <p> + “We will see if the other streets are similarly guarded.” + </p> + <p> + This was found to be so, sentries being placed in every street running + down to the wall in this quarter. + </p> + <p> + “So far so good, Paolo. I do not think that matters could have been better + for us. The next thing is to buy a tool with which we can wrench open a + door or the shutter of a window; but a door will be best, because we could + not work at a shutter without running the risk of being seen by a + sentinel, while in a doorway we should be screened from observation. These + houses in the Strada Vecchia are old, and the doors ought not to give us + much trouble.” + </p> + <p> + “Some of these old locks are very strong, master. I should think that it + would be easier to cut out one of the panels than to force the door open.” + </p> + <p> + “Possibly it would, but it is not an easy thing to get the saw to work. We + should have to bore a hole large enough for the saw to go through before + we could use it. However, we will buy both a saw and a crowbar; as they + are both things that are useful to woodcutters, your buying them will not + appear suspicious, nor will the purchase of an auger, but we had better + get them at different shops.” + </p> + <p> + Leaving that part of the town they re-entered the streets where business + was being carried on as usual. + </p> + <p> + “We won't buy the things until late in the afternoon, Paolo. There would + be no advantage in dragging them about all day.” + </p> + <p> + They sauntered about the streets for some hours, then Paolo went into a + small baker's and bought two loaves of coarse bread. At another shop he + purchased some cheese, and with these they sat down on a stone bench in + the principal square and leisurely ate their food and looked on at the + crowd, which consisted principally of soldiers, Spanish veterans, stiff in + carriage and haughty in manner, together with others, horse and foot, + belonging to the contingent of the Duke of Milan, an ally of the Spanish. + Among these were townspeople, the younger ones chatting with each other or + with ladies of their acquaintance; the middle aged and older men talking + gravely together as they walked up and down. + </p> + <p> + Among these there was an air of gloom and depression. The state of panic + in which the troops of Prince Thomas, who had marched out confident that + they were about to annihilate the French, had returned, and the knowledge + that the Marquis of Leganez had also failed, had created a feeling of the + deepest disquiet among that portion of the population who had taken a + leading part in throwing off the authority of the duchess and in + acknowledging that of Prince Thomas. They had regarded her cause as lost, + but the vigorous steps that France was taking to assist her had caused + uneasiness; and if, while as yet a comparatively small force had arrived, + these had shown so bold a front, had captured Chieri in the face of a + powerful army, had revictualled Casale, had defeated Prince Thomas and + forced their way past the array of Leganez, it might well be that in the + spring, when reinforcements reached them, they might even defeat the + Spaniards and lay siege to Turin itself. The boys remained where they were + until it began to grow dusk, when, after buying at three shops a saw, a + crowbar, and an auger, they went and sat down on a doorway in a quiet + street until eight o'clock. Then they took their way to the Strada + Vecchia. It was entirely deserted. Lights showed in one or two of the + windows, but, except that they could hear the tread of the nearest sentry, + all was silent. Taking off their wooden shoes they moved cautiously along, + keeping close to the houses. The fourth they came to had an unusually deep + doorway, and they decided at once that this would suit their purpose. + First they tried with the crowbar, but the lock held firmly. + </p> + <p> + “We will try another way, Paolo. If the door yields, it will go with a + crash, and the sentry might come down to see what had caused the noise. We + had better take out this lower panel; we shall want four holes bored + touching each other to make one large enough for the saw to enter.” + </p> + <p> + The wood was of oak, and it took Paolo fully five minutes to make the + holes. + </p> + <p> + “Now give me the auger,” Hector said when it was found that the hole was + large enough for the saw to pass through. + </p> + <p> + “I will begin at the bottom of the panel while you saw away at the top.” + </p> + <p> + Paolo had done his share by the time the holes along the bottom were ready + for the saw. + </p> + <p> + “Now you take the auger again,” Hector said. “We have not done half our + work yet. The holes must be made on each side. There is no turning the + saw.” + </p> + <p> + It took them an hour and a half of hard work before the last cut was + completed and the panel fell forward. + </p> + <p> + “You go in first, Paolo. I will follow you, and will wedge the panel into + its place again with some of the chips that the auger has cut out. No one + has passed since we began, and if anyone did come along before morning he + would not be likely to notice that the panel was gone. Still it is as well + to avoid all risk.” + </p> + <p> + As soon as the panel was replaced they mounted the stairs. Before + beginning they had seen that there were no lights in any of the windows, + and feeling sure that the house was deserted they groped their way + upstairs without hesitation until they reached the attics in the sloping + roof. They entered one of these facing the street, opened the casement, in + which oiled paper took the place of glass, and stepped down on to the + parapet. Their course was now easy. The divisions between the houses were + marked by walls some six feet high extending from the edge of the parapet + over the roof. They were able to climb these, however, without having to + use their cord, one helping the other up and then being assisted by him. + They had left the cooking pan and their tools, with the exception of the + crowbar, behind them, and had fastened their wooden shoes round their + necks. The sun during the day had melted the snow that had fallen in the + morning, but light flakes were again beginning to come down fast. + </p> + <p> + “I don't care how hard it snows as long as it keeps on,” Hector said in a + low voice in answer to an exclamation from Paolo when the first flake fell + upon his face. “The harder the better, for in that case no sentry could + see us half a dozen paces away. There is another advantage. The wind is + from the north, and we have only to keep the driving snow on our right + cheeks to make our way straight to the fortress, whereas with an overcast + sky on such a dark night as this we should very soon lose all idea of the + direction that we were going in.” + </p> + <p> + Being obliged to use great caution to avoid noise while getting over the + walls, it took them half an hour to reach the end of the street. They had, + while waiting before commencing their operations, twisted one of their + sashes, and then wound it round the hook so thickly that this would fall + almost noiselessly upon the ground. The snow prevented them from seeing + six feet below them, but they felt sure that there must be a narrow lane + between the house and the wall. They had during the day bought a length, + equal to that of their rope, of strong string. + </p> + <p> + “I have got it as you ordered it, master,” Paolo said as they came out of + the shop, “but it would never bear our weight.” + </p> + <p> + “I think it might do in case of necessity,” Hector said. “In fact, I am + sure it would. It does not require a great thickness of new cord to hold a + man's weight; but I don't want it for that.” + </p> + <p> + Paolo walked silently along for some time, and then said: “If it is not + wanted to carry our weight, master, I cannot think what it is wanted for.” + </p> + <p> + “It is wanted to get the hook down with. You see when we get down into the + street there would be little chance of getting the hook off its hold. We + shall most likely want it again, and certainly we shall want the rope. I + have been puzzling over it, and I think I have found a way at last. My + idea is to fasten this thin rope to the point of the hook, then, on + pulling upon it the point will rise until it gets level with the top of + the wall on which it is fixed, and we can then shake it down without + difficulty. I don't know whether it will act, but I think that it ought to + do so; an upward pull at the point must, I should think, lift it as far as + the edge.” + </p> + <p> + “I should think that it must,” Paolo agreed. “I should never have thought + of that.” + </p> + <p> + “We will try it on this last division wall. I have no doubt about it + myself, because even if it did not pull it quite to the top the thing + would be so canted over that I think it would fall from its own weight.” + </p> + <p> + They now attached the string to the point, fixed the hook to the top of + the wall, and then pulled upon the string. The hook at once fell to their + feet. + </p> + <p> + “That is capital,” Hector said. “Now we can go to work. We need carry this + crowbar no farther. In the first place we will cross this roof and other + roofs as far as we can go; the sentry at the corner is probably standing + up for shelter in a doorway, and we may as well get as far as we can from + him, and at the same time not go far enough to get near the one at the + next corner.” + </p> + <p> + After one or two attempts the hook became fixed on the ridge of the roof, + and they at once climbed up, unfastened the hook, and slid down on the now + snow covered tiles. Two more roofs were crossed in the same way, and then + they prepared to descend. They had, when they put on their disguises, tied + knots in the rope at a distance of a foot apart. They now adjusted the + hook on the parapet. + </p> + <p> + “Shall I go first, master, or will you?” + </p> + <p> + “I will go first, though in fact it matters little which of us does it; + but first I must warm my fingers. I don't think that I could trust to them + at present.” + </p> + <p> + He gathered a handful of snow, made it into a ball, and held it in his + hands until the cold pained him, then he dropped the snow and thrust his + hands up the sleeves of his doublet. Paolo looked on in astonishment, but + having great faith in his master imitated his example. + </p> + <p> + “That is a curious way of warming the hands,” he said. + </p> + <p> + “I daresay you have made snowballs in your time, Paolo, and if you have + you will remember that, although it made your hands bitterly cold at + first, after you had done they soon became almost as hot as fire.” + </p> + <p> + “I do remember that, master, but I should never have thought of it as a + way of warming our hands.” + </p> + <p> + For a minute or two there was a sharp pain as the blood began to rush into + the fingers, and when this passed off their hands were in a glow. Hector + took the rope, lowered himself over the parapet, and then began to + descend. When halfway down the darkness became more intense than before, + and he knew that he was now below the level of the outer wall. When he + reached the ground he shook the rope as a signal, and then, stretching his + arms before him, crossed the lane. It was but a step, for the house stood + but five feet back from the wall. He waited until Paolo joined him, then + he drew on the thin rope and, to his satisfaction, he felt it yield. + </p> + <p> + “Stand aside,” he said, “it is heavy enough to give one a nasty thump.” + </p> + <p> + Paolo withdrew a few paces, then Hector gave another pull. The rope gave + way at once. He flattened himself against the house, and the hook fell + with a dull thud a foot or two away. + </p> + <p> + “Coil up the rope, Paolo, and then feel along the wall to the right; don't + go too far. I will go to the left, there may be some steps up to the + rampart.” + </p> + <p> + This proved to be the case, and together they made their way up quietly, + but even had they had their shoes on, the snow was already sufficiently + deep to deaden their footsteps. On reaching the top they stood silent for + a minute or two. Presently they heard the sound of heavy stamping of feet. + They turned at once to descend, if necessary, the steps they had mounted, + then Hector put his hand upon the other's shoulder and whispered, “It is + the sentry trying to warm his feet; no doubt he is standing up somewhere + to shelter himself from the snow; let us go on at once.” + </p> + <p> + They crossed the rampart, fastened the hook on the top of the wall, and + descended, and were again successful in bringing the rope down after them. + </p> + <p> + “Go carefully, Paolo; no doubt there is a moat somewhere here.” There was, + however, no necessity for caution, for the white surface of the snow was + soon broken by a black line. + </p> + <p> + “It will be awfully cold,” Paolo said, with teeth that chattered at the + prospect. + </p> + <p> + “Of course you can swim, Paolo?” + </p> + <p> + “Not very well, master.” + </p> + <p> + “Then I will go first. You fasten the rope under your arms, and I will + haul you across. Be sure you do not make a noise in getting into the + water. But first of all take off your doublet, I will carry it and mine + across on my head. It cannot be many yards across. The wind will soon dry + the rest of our things, and once our work is done we can warm ourselves by + running. I would say strip altogether, but we may have to do another swim; + for, as we agreed, there is no chance of our being able to return by the + way we came.” + </p> + <p> + Fastening the two doublets on his head, Hector lowered himself into the + water, which was three feet below the level on which they stood. He had + fastened the rope across his shoulder. As he expected, he found the water + out of his depth, and at once struck out to the opposite side. It was + about forty feet across. He found, on reaching the other side, that the + wall was there nearly five feet above the water. He undid the rope and + threw up the hook. At the second attempt it caught, and he climbed the + side, and then in a low voice told Paolo to start. Presently he heard a + slight splash, followed by a gasp. He hauled away rapidly on the rope, and + in a couple of minutes Paolo stood beside him, shivering and gasping. + </p> + <p> + “Put your doublet on. Now let us go forward as fast as we can.” They + climbed the steep slope to the top of the glacis, and then ran down until + they were brought to a standstill by another moat. + </p> + <p> + “This is the one marked in the plan as dividing the fortifications of the + town from those of the citadel. Now we have another swim before us. It is + wider than the last, but is really no distance. Give me your doublet + again.” + </p> + <p> + “I don't mind this so much,” Paolo said. “I cannot be colder than I am.” + </p> + <p> + “Don't try to swim, Paolo; lie on your back, with your mouth just out of + water. I will have you over in no time.” + </p> + <p> + It was fully fifty yards across; but, accustomed to bathe in almost icy + cold water, the swim was nothing to Hector, who was soon across, and who + then towed Paolo over as before. They mounted another glacis, and + presently reached the edge of a third moat. + </p> + <p> + “We need go no farther. I know that this moat is but some fifteen yards + from the foot of the fortifications. Now, get the arrows out. Cut off a + foot or two of the thin cord, and unravel it. I must warm my fingers again + first, I cannot use them at all.” + </p> + <p> + “Mine are pretty cold, too.” And both lads warmed them as before. Paolo + then set to work to string the bow, which required all his strength to + accomplish. While he was doing so, Hector drew from his pouch the six + little pellets, and taking the arrows, straightened out each pellet, + wrapped it round an arrow, and secured it firmly with a small strand from + the string. When he had done this, he took the bow from Paolo, fitted an + arrow to the string, drew it with his full strength, and then, pointing + the arrow high, loosed it. The six arrows were sent off. Just as the last + was discharged there was a shout of “Who is there? Speak, or I fire!” It + was a sentry on the wall, who had caught the sound of the twang of the + bow. + </p> + <p> + “I am a friend, a messenger from the French general,” Hector replied. “I + have just shot six arrows into the fortress; a message is attached to each + for the governor. Report to the officer, and have a search made for them + in the morning. + </p> + <p> + “That is a piece of good luck,” he went on as they turned away. “I thought + of shouting, but we might have got a shot in reply, and I made sure that + one or other of the arrows would be picked up. Still, this makes certain + of it.” + </p> + <p> + “I think I would rather stop out here until morning,” Paolo said, “then + they will take me in. I am afraid I shall never get across the river.” + </p> + <p> + “Nonsense! The water is low, and we are not likely to have to swim farther + than we did in crossing the last moat. Getting through the part of the + town between us and the river is a more serious matter. However, it is not + very far across, and they are not likely to be very vigilant.” + </p> + <p> + They turned to the right, and kept along at the edge of the moat, until + Hector considered that they had made a fourth of the circuit of the walls, + and were now facing the river. They had decided before that this would be + the easiest side on which to leave the town. The sentinels would not + expect that anyone attempting to enter or leave the citadel would try to + do so here; as, in addition to passing the wall facing the fortress and + that bordering the river, they would be obliged to swim the river itself. + The snow was falling as quickly as ever, and the wind blowing fiercely. + </p> + <p> + “There is no fear of their seeing us, unless we happen to run into the + very arms of the sentry,” Hector said encouragingly; “we shall only have + the moat to swim; and as, according to the plan, it is nothing like so + wide as that we passed before, we shall have no trouble with it.” + </p> + <p> + “Ah! here it is,” Paolo groaned. + </p> + <p> + “Nonsense!” Hector said. “One cold bath more or less makes no difference + now. There, give me your coat again, and I will take it over.” + </p> + <p> + The moat was indeed but some twelve yards across, and in two or three + minutes Paolo stood shivering on the other side. + </p> + <p> + “The edge is not far from the wall, not much more than the breadth of the + moat. Give me the cord.” + </p> + <p> + A few steps and they reached the wall. After two attempts the hook caught, + and Hector climbed up. He was looking back to watch Paolo when he was + suddenly seized from behind, and a deep voice in Italian said, “If you + move I will kill you. Who are you?” + </p> + <p> + With a sudden effort Hector twisted himself round and seized the + disengaged wrist of his opponent, which he doubted not held a dagger. The + man loosened his hold of his doublet and tried to grasp his neck, but + Hector in a moment leapt forward and threw his arm round the man's waist. + They wrestled backwards and forwards, but the soldier was a powerful man, + and Hector found that he could not long retain a grasp of his wrist. + Suddenly he felt his antagonist collapse; the dagger dropped from his + hand, the other arm relaxed its hold, and he fell a lifeless mass. + </p> + <p> + “Thank you, Paolo. You were but just in time. The fellow was too strong + for me. Now let us slip down the inside of the wall as quickly as + possible.” + </p> + <p> + A minute later they both stood at the foot of the wall, the hook was + shaken off, and they proceeded along the wall until they came to a street. + </p> + <p> + “It is not more than two or three hundred yards to the outer wall,” Hector + whispered. + </p> + <p> + Whether there were sentinels or not in the street they knew not. If so, + they had withdrawn themselves into deep doorways to avoid the blinding + snow, and the wind drowned the slight sound made by their feet on the soft + snow. + </p> + <p> + In a short time they reached the outer wall, crept along it until they + found the steps leading up, crossed it in safety, fixed their hook, and + rapidly descended. A run of fifty yards brought them to the edge of the + river bank. + </p> + <p> + “We will try to find a boat,” Hector said. “There are sure to be some + along here.” + </p> + <p> + They walked across the dry bed of the river till they reached the water's + edge, and then followed this. In a few minutes, to their delight, they + came upon a boat. The bow was hauled a few feet out of water, and a rope, + doubtless attached to a heavy stone anchor, stretched from its bows. This + they cut, put their shoulders to the gunwale, and soon had her afloat. + Then they scrambled in, put the oars out cautiously, and began to row. + Both had had some practice at the exercise, and it was not long before the + boat grounded on the opposite shore. + </p> + <p> + “Pull it up a bit,” Hector said. “No doubt it belongs to some poor + fisherman to whom its loss would be serious. Now we must keep along the + bank for some distance, until quite sure that we are well beyond any + patrols the enemy may have on the road. Let us get into a run, Paolo, and + see if we can't get our blood in motion again, for I own that I feel half + frozen.” + </p> + <p> + They set off at a brisk trot, which they kept up for half an hour, and + then they struck off from the river and soon found the road. Following + this, after an hour's walking they came upon a little shed by the + roadside, and in one corner found a pile of old sacks. + </p> + <p> + “We are in luck again!” Hector exclaimed joyfully. “Tired as I am, I don't + think that I could have slept in these wet clothes, if one can call them + wet—at present they are frozen stiff. These sacks are the very + thing. We can strip now and wring out our clothes thoroughly. There are + enough sacks here to lay under us and cover us too. After wringing out the + shirts we will put them in under the sacks next to us. The heat of our + bodies will dry them to some extent, and they will be warm to put on in + the morning. The other things we can pile over us. There is no chance of + their getting dry; but I am so pleased with our success that I am not + disposed to grumble at trifles.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0005" id="link2HCH0005"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER V: THE RELIEF OF THE CITADEL + </h2> + <p> + As soon as the first gleam of daylight showed itself Hector and his + companion were on their feet again. + </p> + <p> + The operation of dressing was by no means a comfortable one, for the frost + had set in in earnest during the night, and their clothes, with the + exception of the shirts, were as stiff as boards. The snow had ceased and + the sky was clear. + </p> + <p> + “It is going to be a fine day, master,” Paolo said as they left the hut. + </p> + <p> + “That is better than battling with a snowstorm such as that of yesterday + evening. Come on, Paolo, let us trot for a bit. The snow is four inches + deep, and we shall soon get warm running through it.” + </p> + <p> + In a quarter of an hour they broke into a walk again, panting from their + exertions. + </p> + <p> + “I am as warm as a toast now, Paolo. There is a village half a mile ahead. + I expect that lies on the road. The sun will be up before we get there, + and no doubt we shall be able to get some hot spiced wine and some bread + at a wineshop.” + </p> + <p> + This turned out to be the case. They had settled what story to tell; and + when the landlord asked what brought them there so early, Paolo said that + they had been on the road a couple of hours, as they were going to see an + aunt who was ill at Chivasso, and their father wanted them back again that + night. The explanation satisfied the host and he asked no further + questions, and in ten minutes they were on their way again, greatly warmed + and comforted by their meal, and after walking for another hour and a half + they arrived at the bridge of Chivasso. There was a strong guard at the + bridge head, for at any moment the garrison of Turin, aided by a force + from Leganez's army, might endeavour to carry the town by a sudden + assault. The lads passed the bridge unquestioned, entered the gate of the + town, and made their way to the commandant's house. + </p> + <p> + “What do you want?” the sentry at the door asked as they came up. + </p> + <p> + The regiment was French, and Hector answered at once: + </p> + <p> + “We want to see the governor, we have important news for him.” + </p> + <p> + The soldier was greatly surprised, for he had not expected his question to + be understood by these peasant boys. + </p> + <p> + “Sergeant,” he called out, “here are two peasant boys who speak French. + They want to see the governor, and say that they have news of importance + to give him.” + </p> + <p> + A sergeant came out. + </p> + <p> + “Sergeant,” Hector went on quietly, “you will please tell the governor + that the two persons he sent out under an escort the evening before last, + wish to see him.” + </p> + <p> + By the tone of assurance in which the lad spoke, rather than by his words, + the sergeant saw that there was something more than appeared on the + surface, and at once took up the message. He returned almost immediately. + “Please to follow me,” he said, and led the way up to the governor's room. + </p> + <p> + “Welcome back again, Monsieur Campbell! You have returned sooner than I + expected. You found, of course, that the difficulties were insuperable?” + </p> + <p> + “On the contrary, sir, we have been successful, and have communicated with + the garrison of the citadel.” + </p> + <p> + “You have!” the governor exclaimed in astonishment. “How on earth did you + manage it? I heard that the watch was so strict that it was absolutely + impossible for a message to be sent through.” + </p> + <p> + “It was not very difficult after all, and we were greatly favoured by the + snowstorm.” He then gave an account of how they had managed it. + </p> + <p> + “Pardieu!” he exclaimed, “that was admirably done; but I am keeping you + talking while you are sitting in your wet clothes.” + </p> + <p> + “I think they are quite dry now, sir; and we have walked so fast that we + are both thoroughly warm. Still, I own that I shall not be sorry to change + them for my own.” + </p> + <p> + The governor rose and opened the door. “Your clothes are all hanging up in + that closet. I will have some hot water sent up at once. I shall be + breakfasting in half an hour, so you will have time to change + comfortably.” + </p> + <p> + Hector was even more glad of a thorough wash than of a change of clothes, + and went down to join the governor at breakfast, feeling greatly + refreshed. + </p> + <p> + “Shall I wait on you, master?” + </p> + <p> + “No, it is not necessary, Paolo; you had better go into the kitchen at + once. I have no doubt the governor has ordered them to attend to your + wants as he did before.” + </p> + <p> + Four other officers had just arrived on the invitation of the governor to + breakfast; one of these was the captain who had commanded the escort. + </p> + <p> + “Gentlemen,” the commandant said, “let me introduce to you Monsieur + Campbell, a lieutenant on the staff of Viscount Turenne. He has just + returned after having successfully carried out a most dangerous and + difficult mission, namely, that of communicating with the garrison of + Turin.” + </p> + <p> + The officers gave an exclamation of surprise, while Captain Simon stepped + forward and shook hands warmly with Hector. + </p> + <p> + “You did not tell me exactly what you were going to do,” he said. “I + thought that it was to see some of the duchess's adherents in Turin, but I + never dreamt that you were going to attempt to communicate with the + citadel. Had I known that, I certainly should not have expected to see you + again, for from what we have heard it is next to impossible to get through + the enemy's lines.” + </p> + <p> + “We will not trouble Monsieur Campbell until he has finished his + breakfast,” the commandant said. “He has already told me briefly how he + managed, but I shall be as glad as you will to have the details.” + </p> + <p> + Accordingly, after breakfast Hector related at much greater length the + story that he had told the governor of the manner in which the mission had + been carried out. + </p> + <p> + “Ma foi!” the colonel said, “I would rather have faced a battery than swum + those moats in such weather. Well, gentlemen, I think that you will agree + with me that Monsieur de Turenne is fortunate in having so brave and + enterprising an officer on his staff.” + </p> + <p> + The officers cordially assented. + </p> + <p> + “I wonder that you did not enter the citadel and stay there till the + convoy arrived.” + </p> + <p> + “In the first place, colonel, I had received no orders to do so, and the + general might require me for other service. And in the second place, had I + not returned he would not have known whether his message had reached the + garrison, and so might have hurried on his preparations more hastily than + he otherwise would have done, and might, in his fear that the garrison + would surrender, have made the attempt before he had collected sufficient + food to last them until he was in a position to raise the siege.” + </p> + <p> + “Your reasons are good ones; but certainly, with shelter and warmth close + at hand—for the sentry would speedily have passed the word along, + and as soon as it was ascertained that you were indeed a French officer, + and alone, the gates would have been opened for you—it must have + required no small effort to turn away and to face the danger of passing + the sentries and scaling the walls, of possibly having to swim the Po, and + of certainly having no chance of getting a change of clothes until you + arrived here, for you could not have calculated upon finding the shed, + much less those sacks, with the snow falling heavily.” + </p> + <p> + “That was a piece of good fortune, indeed. If we had not found it, we + should have gone on walking until we got here. Still, we had had little + sleep the night before, and were heartily glad that we had no farther to + go. And now, sir, with your permission we will start for Susa at once.” + </p> + <p> + “Your escort returned yesterday, but I will send a troop of cavalry with + you.” + </p> + <p> + “Thank you, sir, but I do not think that there is any necessity for it. We + are very well mounted, and should we see any party of the enemy's cavalry + I think that we ought to be able to outdistance them. I shall be glad, + colonel, if you and your officers will say nothing about the manner in + which I communicated with the garrison, as doubtless the enemy have spies + here; and if the story comes out and reaches the ears of the authorities + at Turin, I should have no chance whatever of making my way in, in the + same manner, should the general entrust me with another mission to + communicate with the citadel.” + </p> + <p> + A quarter of an hour later Hector and Paolo mounted and rode out of the + town. They kept a vigilant lookout, and traveled by byroads, but they saw + none of the enemy's parties, and reached Susa late that afternoon. On + sending in his name to Turenne, Hector was at once shown into his room. + </p> + <p> + “I did not expect you back for another three or four days, Campbell,” the + general said, “and I am heartily glad to see you again safe and sound. I + blamed myself for letting you go. Of course, as I expected, you found the + task an altogether impossible one. Had it been otherwise you would not + have been back so soon.” + </p> + <p> + “On the contrary, general, for I should have tried many plans before I + gave it up. As it is, I have only to report that I have carried out your + instructions, and that your despatches are in the hands of the garrison of + the citadel.” + </p> + <p> + “You do not say so!” Turenne said, rising from the table at which he had + been sitting writing when Hector entered, and shaking him warmly by the + hand. “I congratulate both you and myself on your having performed a + mission that seemed well nigh hopeless. But by what miracle did you + succeed in passing through the enemy's lines? All who have tried it before + have either died in the attempt or have returned to tell me that it was an + absolutely impossible one.” + </p> + <p> + “It would have been very difficult, general, had not the weather favoured + us. The snowstorm drove the sentries into shelter, and even had they + remained at their posts they could not have seen us five yards away.” + </p> + <p> + “No, I can understand that once beyond the wall you might in such a storm + make your way unnoticed up to the fortress; but I understood that not only + were there guards on the walls and down near the great moat, but that + there were also sentries in all the streets leading to the walls, and that + none were allowed to pass along those leading to the walls facing the + citadel. Tell me how you managed it.” + </p> + <p> + “The story is a long one, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “Never mind how long it is; give me all details. I am not particularly + busy at present, and I would fain know exactly how this feat has been + accomplished.” + </p> + <p> + Hector told his story at length. Beyond asking a question now and then, + Turenne remained silent until he had brought it to a conclusion. + </p> + <p> + “I have never heard a story that interested me more,” he said, “and I do + not know which to admire more, your ingenuity in planning this affair or + the hardihood and courage with which you carried it out. Even had there + been no enemy to get through, the adventure of letting yourself down by a + rope from the housetop and then from the battlements, swimming three + moats, crossing the river in such terrible weather, and finally making + your way to Chivasso in your frozen clothes, is no slight feat of + endurance. The service that you have rendered is a great one, the manner + in which you have carried it out is worthy of the highest praise, and I + shall at once make out your commission as captain. You are still a year + behind me,” he added with a smile, “but if you go on in this way, you bid + fair to obtain a regiment as soon as I did. You have nearly four years to + do it in. Tomorrow you will dictate your story in full to my secretary. I + shall be sending a messenger with despatches on the following day. I shall + mention that I have promoted you to the rank of captain, and that the + story of the action that you have performed, which I shall inclose, will + fully explain my reason for so speedily advancing you. No, I require no + thanks; you have to thank yourself only. I may consider that you have not + only done me but the state a service. Your servant deserves a reward also. + Here are twenty pistoles; tell him not to throw them away, but to lay them + by where some day they will be useful to him.” + </p> + <p> + Paolo was astonished indeed when Hector handed him the general's present. + He could at first hardly believe that it was meant for him. + </p> + <p> + “Why, master,” he said, “it would buy me a farm up in the hills!” + </p> + <p> + “Not a very large one, Paolo, but I daresay that you will add to it; + still, this is a good beginning, and some more opportunities may come in + your way.” + </p> + <p> + “What shall I do with them, master?” + </p> + <p> + “That I cannot say. Certainly you cannot carry them about with you. Do you + know anyone to whom you could entrust them?” + </p> + <p> + Paolo shook his head. “There is never any knowing who is an honest man and + who is not,” he said. “I will bury them, master.” + </p> + <p> + “But somebody might find them.” + </p> + <p> + “No fear of that, sir. I will go a bit up the valley and bury them under a + big rock well above the river, so that it will not be reached in the + highest floods. They might lie there a hundred years without anyone + finding them, even if every soul in Susa knew that they were hidden + somewhere and went out to search for them.” + </p> + <p> + “Very well; but be sure you take notice of the exact position of the + stone, or you may not be able to find it again yourself. One big stone is + a good deal like another. Choose a stone with a tree growing near it, and + make a cross with your knife on the bark. That will serve as a guide to + you, and you would recognize the stone by it even if you could not find it + in any other way.” + </p> + <p> + “Thank you, master. I will go out tomorrow morning and choose my stone, + and then when it begins to get dark I will go out and bury my money there. + It would not do to hide it in the daytime, for even were there no one on + the road someone upon the hills might catch sight of me and come down + afterwards to see what I was disposing of.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, I think that that is the best thing that you can do, Paolo. There + is certainly a danger in leaving it in anyone's hands, for when you return + to claim it, perhaps some years hence, you might find that he was dead, or + the place might be captured and burned down. Yes, I think that hiding it + is the safest way. You will be pleased to hear that the general has given + me a commission as captain.” + </p> + <p> + “That is good news, indeed,” the boy said. “I was just going to ask, + master, what he had done for you, because, though I went with you, it was + you who planned the business, and I only did as you told me.” + </p> + <p> + “You had something to do with the planning, too, Paolo. However, I think + that we may both feel well content with the rewards that we have obtained + for two days' work.” + </p> + <p> + As Hector went out he met de Lisle and Chavigny. + </p> + <p> + “Well met!” the former exclaimed. “We have just left the general, and he + has told us what you have done, and that he has made you a captain in + consequence. We were just coming to look for you to carry you off to + supper in honour of your promotion.” + </p> + <p> + “You deserve it, if anyone ever did, there is no doubt of that,” Chavigny + said heartily. “We are quite proud of our comrade.” + </p> + <p> + “It seems absurd that I should be a captain.” + </p> + <p> + “Not absurd at all,” Chavigny said. “Turenne was a captain when he was a + year younger than you are, and there is many a noble who has been made a + colonel before he ever drew sword in battle.” + </p> + <p> + Hector was much pleased at the evidently genuine congratulations of his + companions. He had indeed rather feared that they would take his promotion + ill; being nearly five years his senior, and having served in two previous + campaigns, they might well feel hurt at his being promoted while they + still remained only lieutenants. The young nobles indeed felt no shade of + jealousy. It was but of late that there had been a regular army, for the + nobles still brought their tenants and retainers to the field and + supported them at their own expense. + </p> + <p> + To de Lisle and Chavigny these grades of military rank were of no account + whatever. The rank of colonel would add in no way to their position as + members of noble families. They fought for honour, and against the enemies + of France. They were always addressed by their family name, and would both + have resented being called lieutenant. They were proud of being Turenne's + aides-de-camp, but had no thought of remaining in the army after the war + was over, as they would then resume their place at court. They had both + taken a strong liking to their young comrade, whose manner of thought + differed so widely from their own. They appreciated the merits of the + action of which their general had spoken in such warm terms, and the fact + that in point of military rank he was now above them concerned them in no + way. It was a merry supper at the best hotel in Susa. + </p> + <p> + “You see now, de Lisle,” Chavigny said, “the advantage of taking a morning + dip in snow water. Neither you nor I would have swum across those moats, + and remained all night long in our wet clothes, for a thousand crowns.” + </p> + <p> + “No, no, nor for five thousand,” the other laughed. “Pass me the wine; it + makes me shiver to think of it. I fancy we may as well admit at once that + if the mission had been entrusted to us, we should have made a mess of it. + We should have been shot by the guards in the first street we entered. As + to climbing along the roofs of houses till we had passed the first line of + sentinels, the idea would never have entered our heads. Of course we might + have disguised ourselves, and might have got into the town by harnessing + ourselves to a load of faggots, but once there we should have had no more + chance of getting into the fortress than if we had at once proclaimed + ourselves French officers, and had requested a pass into the citadel.” + </p> + <p> + For the next ten days every effort was made to obtain carts and pack + horses from the villages round Susa, and a number of wagons filled with + provisions were brought from Carignano, where the principal supplies for + the army had been collected. On the fourteenth day all was ready, and late + in the afternoon the convoy, with fifteen hundred men from Susa, and four + pieces of artillery, marched out. At the same hour the force at Carignano, + six thousand strong, leaving only a small body to garrison the city, + started for Turin along the farther bank of the Po, and just as day broke + a heavy cannonade was opened by them against one of the city gates. + </p> + <p> + Astonished and alarmed, the troops in the city flew to arms, and hurried + to repulse the attack. A quarter of an hour later the dim light of the + morning showed the astonished sentries at the end of the town surrounding + the citadel a considerable force advancing to the attack of the gate + there, opposite which, at a distance of two hundred yards, four cannon + were placed, and scarcely had they made out the enemy when these opened + fire. A few rounds and the gate was in splinters, and the infantry rushed + forward. The sentries on the walls took to flight, and the assailants + pushed forward to the inner gate. Access was obtained from that side to + the citadel, and then, under the direction of their officers, the + assailants occupied all the side streets. At once the procession of carts + was allowed to pass along. Some of the garrison ran down and lowered the + drawbridge across the moat, and amid exultant shouts a store sufficient + for many months was conveyed into the citadel. The carts as quickly as + they were unloaded returned through the gates and passed out into the + country beyond. By this time a fierce fight had begun. As soon as the + firing was heard opposite the citadel, Prince Thomas and his military + advisers guessed at once that the attack had been but a feint, made with + the object of effecting the relief of the citadel, and calling several + regiments to follow them they hastened in that direction. On their way + they met the fugitives, and hurried on with all speed. As they approached + the street through which the wagons were passing out, they were checked by + a heavy fire. The four guns had been placed in pairs at the end of the + streets, and the houses near them filled with troops who kept up a + murderous fire from the windows, on the head of the columns, and held them + completely in check until the last wagon had been taken out. Then the + cannon were removed, and when these too were fairly outside the city, a + bugle call summoned the defenders of the houses, and the infuriated + Italians and Spaniards, when they rushed down into the street between the + gates, found that the last of their foes had escaped them. The + artillerymen ran up to the walls, only to find that the guns had been + spiked, and they were powerless to inflict any serious damage upon the + retiring force. + </p> + <p> + Prince Thomas ordered a sally, but at this moment a regiment of cavalry + from Chivasso was seen dashing across the plain, and being without + artillery or cavalry the order was countermanded. Indeed, the prolonged + roll of artillery at the other end of the city seemed to show that the + French were converting their feigned attack into a real one. Turenne had + himself accompanied the column from Carignano, for he knew that the sound + of firing might bring up Leganez from Asti, and that he might find his + retreat to Carignano intercepted. The moment, however, that the sound of + four guns at equal intervals showed that the other column had achieved its + object, he at once fell back, his fire ceasing a few minutes before Prince + Thomas and his horse arrived at the walls. He had not been accompanied by + Hector, who was with the force from Susa. + </p> + <p> + “You carried my message to the garrison,” he said, “and it is but right + that you should have the honour of leading the party to its relief.” + </p> + <p> + On arriving near the city Hector had dismounted, and, giving his horse in + charge of Paolo, had placed himself at the head of the company that was + first to enter the town, its captain being transferred to another company. + </p> + <p> + “Now, men,” he said, as they stood waiting for the dawn to break, “the + moment we enter the gates half the company will mount the wall to the + right, the other half to the left, and each will push along to the next + angle of the wall. Lieutenants, one of you will go with each wing of the + company, and you will oppose to the last any force that may march along + the rampart to attack you. I want one soldier to keep by me.” + </p> + <p> + As day began to break, each man grasped his firelock and awaited the + signal with impatience. A cheer broke from them as the four cannon roared + out at the same moment, and at so short a distance that every shot told on + the gate. Another salvo and both halves of the gate were splintered. + </p> + <p> + “Aim at the centre where the lock is,” an officer shouted. + </p> + <p> + “Get ready, men,” Hector said. “Another round and the gate will fall.” + </p> + <p> + As the cannon rung out there was a shout of triumph. One of the gates fell + to the ground and Hector dashed forward, followed closely by his company. + Not a single shot was fired from the walls, and the men burst through the + gates cheering. The leading wing of the company turned to the right, and, + led by Hector, ran up the steps close to the gateway on to the rampart. + </p> + <p> + “Take them on to that bastion at the angle of the wall, lieutenant. I do + not think that you are likely to be attacked at present. The enemy must + all have been drawn off to the other end of the city. Now, my man, open + that bag.” + </p> + <p> + In it were a couple of dozen large nails and a hammer. “Drive one of those + right down the vent of this gun. That is right. One more blow. That will + do. They won't get that nail out soon.” + </p> + <p> + He went along the wall spiking each gun until they reached the half + company drawn up in the bastion. “No enemy in sight, lieutenant?” + </p> + <p> + “None, sir, at least not on the wall. We heard them running away in the + streets below.” + </p> + <p> + “Remember, lieutenant, whatever force may come along you must withstand + them. It will not be for long. You will be at once supported if we hear + firing.” + </p> + <p> + Then he retraced his steps along the ramparts, passed over the gateway, + and saw to the spiking of each gun as far as the next angle of the wall. + Here he repeated his instructions to the lieutenant there. + </p> + <p> + “I do not think,” he said, “that there is much chance of your being + attacked. The enemy would have to make a detour right round the citadel to + come here, and certainly they will return by the shortest way, as soon as + they discover that the other attack is but a feint.” + </p> + <p> + Then he returned to the first party. + </p> + <p> + “Get the two guns,” he said, “out of their embrasures and wheel them here. + It is likely enough that we may be hotly attacked presently.” + </p> + <p> + They waited half an hour, by which time the wagons were beginning to pour + out of the town. + </p> + <p> + “We have done our business, lieutenant; the citadel is revictualled. Ah! + here come the enemy, just too late.” + </p> + <p> + A strong body of troops were seen marching rapidly towards them, and + almost at the same moment a heavy fire broke out in the street. The guns + had been loaded from a small magazine in the bastion, and had been trained + to fire along the rampart. When within a hundred yards the enemy opened + fire. Hector ordered the men to lie down and not to reply until he gave + the order. They lay in two lines, the first were to fire and the second to + reserve their fire until ordered. He took his post at one gun and the + lieutenant at the other. A messenger had been sent along the wall to bring + up the twenty-five men of the other wing. When the enemy were within fifty + yards he asked quietly, “Does your gun bear well on the centre of the + column?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, captain.” + </p> + <p> + “Then fire!” + </p> + <p> + The ball cut a way through the dense column. + </p> + <p> + “Load again!” + </p> + <p> + The four men, told off to the duty, leapt to their feet. There was a halt + for a moment, and then the Spaniards came on again. When they were within + twenty paces Hector fired, and at the same time shouted, “First line give + fire!” and twenty-five muskets flashed out, every ball taking effect on + the head of the column. The Spaniards recoiled, the leading ranks being + swept away and many of those behind wounded, for three balls had been + rammed down the mouth of the cannon fired by Hector, and these and the + musketry volley had done terrible execution. At this moment the + twenty-five men sent for ran up. + </p> + <p> + “Second line give fire!” Hector shouted; and the discharge added to the + confusion in the column, and many ran down some steps into the lane by the + side of the wall. + </p> + <p> + “Have you loaded again, lieutenant?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, sir, with three balls.” + </p> + <p> + “Then form up, men, and deliver your fire,” Hector said to the newcomers. + “Now, lieutenant, touch it off.” + </p> + <p> + As the discharge rang out, mingled with the roar of the guns, Hector + shouted, “Fix bayonets, and charge!” The wooden shafts of the bayonets + were thrust down the barrels of the firelocks, and with a cheer the + seventy-five men rushed upon the shattered head of the column. The charge + was irresistible, and the enemy at once fled at full speed along the + rampart or leapt from the wall into the lane below. + </p> + <p> + “Well done, men, well done!” Hector shouted. “Do not pursue. Reload your + cannon, though I do not think there is much fear of their returning.” + </p> + <p> + A few minutes later the soldier who had carried the spikes, and who had + been left on the wall, ran up to say that the last cart had passed out. + </p> + <p> + “Go and tell the other party to fall back to the gate,” Hector said; “but + first give me two spikes and the hammer. They might run these cannons into + the places of those disabled.” So saying, he spiked the two guns that had + done such good service, and then retired to the gate, where he was joined + by the remainder of the company. As the bugle rung out after the last + wagon had passed, and he saw the troops issuing from the houses at the + corners of the cross streets, he marched his company across the + drawbridge, out into the country, and followed the guns. When he reached + the spot where Paolo was holding the horses, he resigned the command of + the company and mounted. + </p> + <p> + “Men,” he said, “you have played your part well, and I am proud to have + commanded soldiers so steady and courageous.” + </p> + <p> + At this moment the general, who was in command of the force, and who had + been the last to leave the town, rode up, the men coming along at a run. + </p> + <p> + “You had better hurry your men on,” he said to the colonel with whom + Hector had acted; “the enemy will be on the ramparts in a minute, and you + may be sure that they won't let us off without trouble from their guns.” + </p> + <p> + “I beg your pardon, general,” Hector said saluting, “but the guns all + along this side of the wall are useless; I have spiked them.” + </p> + <p> + “You have, sir! That was well done indeed. Who gave you the orders, and + how did you come by spikes?” + </p> + <p> + “I had no orders, general; but I was appointed to command the first + company that entered, and was told that we were to turn right and left + along the ramparts. It struck me that as, when we had left, the enemy + would be sure to turn their guns upon us, it would be as well to silence + them, so I brought the nails and a hammer with me for the purpose.” + </p> + <p> + “It would be well, sir, if we had a good many officers as thoughtful as + you are. You have saved us from heavy loss, for, as the country is + perfectly level for a mile round, they would have swept our ranks as we + marched off. Were you attacked, sir?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, general, by a force of about four hundred men, but I turned two of + the guns against them. My men fought well, and we repulsed them with a + loss of fully a hundred men.” + </p> + <p> + “Bravo, sir, bravo! I shall not fail to mention the service that you have + rendered in my report of the affair. Have you lost any men?” + </p> + <p> + “No, sir; they lay down until the enemy were within twenty paces of us, + and their volleys and the two cannon created such a confusion among the + Spaniards that when we went at them with the bayonet they fled at once, + and I have not a single man killed, and only two or three slightly + wounded.” + </p> + <p> + “We have only lost twenty,” the general said, “and most of those were + killed while serving the guns. That was a small price indeed to pay for + our magnificent success.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0006" id="link2HCH0006"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER VI: A CHANGE OF SCENE + </h2> + <p> + Hector gained great credit from the report of the manner in which the + force had been enabled to draw off without loss from the enemy's guns, + owing to his forethought in bringing with him the means of spiking them, + and also for his success in checking the advance of the enemy along the + ramparts. + </p> + <p> + “You see, messieurs,” Turenne said to the members of his staff, who, with + the exception of Hector, were together on the day after his return to + Susa, “how important it is for officers, before setting out on an + expedition, to think seriously over every contingency that may happen. Now + the vast proportion of officers consider that all the thinking has to be + done by the general, and that they only have to obey orders. No doubt that + is essential, but there may be numerous little matters in which an officer + may render great service. This young captain of ours did not content + himself with leading the company to which I appointed him through the + gateway. Before leaving Susa he must have thought over every incident + likely to occur. As the leading company he would know that it would be his + business to clear the ramparts, to check any parties of the enemy coming + along that way, and it would be only natural for him to determine to use + the enemy's cannon to keep them at bay. + </p> + <p> + “This would probably have occurred to most officers placed as he was. But + he did not stop there—he must have thought over the events that + would probably follow the entry. He knew, of course, that our feint at the + other end of the town would draw off the greater portion of the garrison, + but would be sure also that as soon as the attack began, and it became + evident that our real object was to revictual the citadel, they would come + pouring back again. He would have said to himself, 'We shall be able to + keep them at bay until our work is done, then we shall have to fall back. + What then? The enemy will mount the ramparts, and while their main force + pours out in pursuit, their guns on the walls will play havoc with us. To + prevent this I must silence them before my company retires.' + </p> + <p> + “It is all very simple when we look at it after it is done, and yet + probably it did not occur to a single officer of that force except to + Captain Campbell. I admit that it did not occur to myself. Had it done so, + I should have ordered that some of the artillerymen should carry spikes + and hammers, and that upon entering the town they should immediately take + steps, by rendering the guns harmless, to enable the force to draw off + without heavy loss. In the same way he showed a cool and calculating brain + when he carried out that most dangerous service of bearing the news that + we should speedily bring aid to the citadel. It is difficult to imagine a + better laid plan. He thought of everything—of his disguise, of the + manner in which it would alone be possible to approach closely to the + wall. + </p> + <p> + “I think that few of us would have thought of making our way up through a + house a hundred yards away, working along the roofs and descending into + the lane by the wall itself. I asked him how he got the rope down which it + was necessary for him to use four or five times afterwards, and he showed + me the plan by which he contrived to free the hook; it was most ingenious. + It did not seem to me that it would have acted as he told me, and I asked + him to have another one made so that I might understand how it was worked, + for such a contrivance would be extremely useful in escalades, when the + troops, after descending into a deep fosse, need the rope for climbing a + wall or bastion. There it is, gentlemen, and as you see, by pulling this + thin cord the hook is lifted from its hold, and the slightest shake will + bring it down. + </p> + <p> + “The contrivance is an excellent one. The line he took was well chosen. He + accomplished the most dangerous part first, and made his way out by the + side where the watch was most likely to be careless, as anyone leaving or + entering the town there would have to swim the river. The feat shows that + he has not only abundance of courage of the very highest order, but that + he has a head to plan and leaves nothing to chance. You will see, + gentlemen, that if this young officer lives he is likely to gain the + highest rank and position. Already I have every reason to congratulate + myself upon having, almost as it were by chance, taken him under my + protection.” + </p> + <p> + The winter passed quietly, but as soon as spring set in and the roads were + sufficiently good for the passage of wagons, d'Harcourt prepared to + attempt to raise the siege of Casale, before which Leganez with twenty + thousand men had intrenched himself. The roads were still, however, far + too heavy for cannon, and as the garrison were becoming hardly pressed he + left his guns behind him and started at the end of April with seven + thousand foot and three thousand horse. The position occupied by the + Spaniards was a strong one, and their general did not for a moment think + that the French, with a force half the strength of his own, would venture + to attack him. D'Harcourt, however, resolved upon doing so. He divided his + force into three parts; two of these were composed of French soldiers, the + third comprised the forces of the Duchess of Savoy. The attack was + successful on all sides—although d'Harcourt for a time could make no + way, and Turenne was repulsed three times before he entered the + intrenchments—the Spaniards were completely defeated, and lost their + guns, ammunition, and baggage, three thousand killed, two thousand + prisoners, and great numbers were drowned in endeavouring to cross the + river. + </p> + <p> + A council of war was held, and Turenne's advice that Turin should be + besieged was after much debate accepted, although it seemed a desperate + enterprise for an army of ten thousand men to besiege a town garrisoned by + twelve thousand, while the Spaniards, after recovering from their defeat + and drawing men from their various garrisons, could march to relieve the + town with eighteen thousand men. No time was lost in carrying Turenne's + advice into effect. The army marched upon Turin, seized the positions + round the town, threw up lines facing the city to prevent sorties being + made by the enemy, and surrounded themselves by similar lines to enable + them to resist attack by the Spaniards, who were not long in approaching + them. Thus there were now four bodies of combatants—the garrison of + the citadel, which was surrounded and besieged by that of the town; the + town was besieged by Turenne, and he himself was surrounded by the + Spaniards. Each relied rather upon starving the others out than upon + storming their positions, but Leganez managed to send a messenger into + Turin telling Prince Thomas that he intended to attack the French and + calling upon him to fall upon them with his troops at the same time. + </p> + <p> + In pursuance of this design he retired some distance up the Po, and + proceeded to cross the river at Moncalieri. D'Harcourt despatched Turenne + to oppose the passage, but before he could arrive there some five thousand + men had crossed the bridge. Without hesitating a moment, although his + force was a much smaller one than that of the Spaniards, Turenne attacked + them at once, carried the intrenchments they had begun to throw up, killed + a large number, and drove the rest into the river, where hundreds were + drowned. Then he set fire to the bridge, which was of wood, and intrenched + himself on the banks of the river, occupied all the fords higher up, and + completely checked any advance of the Spaniards in that direction. He was, + however, wounded in the shoulder, and was obliged to leave the army and to + be carried to Pinerolo. While he was away Leganez attacked the French line + from without, and Prince Thomas from within, and the former succeeded in + passing twelve hundred horse and one thousand foot into the town. + </p> + <p> + The French were now closely beleaguered, and began to suffer severely from + famine. In the meantime fresh troops had arrived from France, and although + not yet recovered from his wounds, Turenne took the command, and escorted + a great convoy of provisions into the camp in spite of the enemy's efforts + to prevent him. The townspeople were suffering even more severely. Sorties + were made in great force, but were always repulsed, as were the attacks + made by Leganez, and on the 17th of September the garrison surrendered, + being allowed to march out with their arms. The Count d'Harcourt returned + to France, and Turenne again assumed the command of the army for the + winter. + </p> + <p> + Hector conducted himself to the satisfaction of his general throughout the + campaign, but was severely wounded in the last sortie made by the + besieged, having been thrown down in a charge of Prince Thomas's cavalry + and trampled upon by the horses, and being taken up for dead when the + enemy fell back. + </p> + <p> + Directly he heard the news Turenne sent his surgeon to examine him. He + reported that he still breathed, but that several of his ribs and his left + arm were broken. He mended but slowly, and Turenne, a month after the + surrender of the town, came in one day to see him, and said, “The surgeon + tells me that it will be some months before you are fit for service again, + and that you will need a period of perfect rest to recover your health. + There is a convoy of invalids returning to France tomorrow, and I think it + were best that you should accompany them. There is no rest to be obtained + here, and I know that you will be fretting at being unable to ride, and at + your forced inactivity. I shall give orders that you are conveyed in a + horse litter to Sedan, where my brother, the Duc de Bouillon, will gladly + entertain you for my sake, and you must remain there until entirely + restored to strength. + </p> + <p> + “I do not think that there will be much doing on this side of the Alps in + the next campaign. Unhappily France has troubles of her own, and will find + it difficult to spare more troops in this direction, and without + reinforcements we can but act on the defensive. Though we may capture a + few towns, there is small chance of any great operations. Indeed, methinks + that it is by no means unlikely that Prince Thomas, seeing that his effort + to rule Savoy in place of his sister-in-law, the duchess, is likely to end + in discredit and loss to himself, will before long open negotiations with + her. Therefore you will be losing nothing by going. It is to the duchess + that I shall commend you rather than to my brother, who is unfortunately + occupied by public matters, and is at present almost at war with + Richelieu. + </p> + <p> + “He is a man of noble impulses, generous in the extreme, and the soul of + honour, but he knows not how to conceal his feelings; and in these days no + man, even the most powerful, can venture to rail in public against one who + has offended him, when that man happens to be the cardinal. I love my + brother dearly, but I have mixed myself up in no way with his affairs. I + am an officer of the king, and as such I stand aloof from all parties in + the state. The cardinal is his minister; doubtless he has his faults, but + he is the greatest man in France, and the wisest. He lives and works for + the country. It may be true that he is ambitious for himself, but the + glory of France is his chief care. It is for that purpose that we have + entered upon this war, for he sees that if Germany becomes united under an + emperor who is by blood a Spaniard, France must eventually be crushed, and + Spain become absolutely predominant in Europe. If he is opposed, Richelieu + strikes hard, because he deems those who oppose him as not only his own + enemies but as enemies of France. + </p> + <p> + “As a prince of the church it must have been bitter for him to have to + ally himself with the Protestant princes of Germany, with Protestant + Holland, and Protestant England, but he has done so. It is true that he + has captured La Rochelle, and broken the power of the Huguenot lords of + the south, but these new alliances show that he is ready to sacrifice his + own prejudices for the good of France when France is endangered, and that + it is on account of the danger of civil broils to the country, rather than + from a hatred of the Huguenots, that he warred against them. Here am I, + whom he deigns to honour with his patronage, a Huguenot; my brother, + Bouillon, was also a Huguenot, and strangely enough the quarrel between + him and the cardinal did not break out until my brother had changed his + religion. + </p> + <p> + “He was more rigorously brought up than I was, and was taught to look upon + the Catholics with abhorrence; but he married, not from policy but from + love, a Catholic lady, who is in all respects worthy of him, for she is as + high spirited and as generous as he is, and at the same time is gentle, + loving, and patient. Though deeply pious, she is free from bigotry, and it + was because my brother came to see that the tales he had been taught of + the bigotry and superstition of the Catholics were untrue, at least in + many instances, that he revolted against the intolerance of the doctrines + in which he had been brought up, renounced them, and became an adherent of + his wife's religion. + </p> + <p> + “Nigh four years ago the Duke of Soissons, a prince of the blood, incurred + the enmity of Richelieu by refusing, with scorn, his proposal that he + should marry the Countess of Cobalet, Richelieu's niece. The refusal, and + still more the language in which he refused, excited the deep enmity of + the cardinal. Soissons had joined the party against him, but as usual + Richelieu had the king's ear. Soissons was ordered to leave the court, and + went to Sedan, where he was heartily received by my brother, who had a + warm affection for him. Bouillon wrote to the king hoping that he would + not be displeased at his offering a retreat to a prince of the blood, and + the king wrote permitting the count to stay at Sedan. After a time + Richelieu again endeavoured to bring about the marriage upon which he had + set his heart, but was again refused, and, being greatly exasperated, + insisted on Bouillon obliging the count to leave Sedan. My brother + naturally replied that the king having at first approved of his receiving + Soissons, he could not violate the laws of hospitality to a prince of the + blood. + </p> + <p> + “Richelieu then persuaded the king to refuse further payments to the + garrisons at Sedan, although the latter had confirmed the agreement + entered into by his father, whereupon my brother openly declared against + Richelieu, and still further excited the cardinal's anger by furnishing an + asylum to the Archbishop of Rheims, second son of Charles of Lorraine, who + had also quarrelled with Richelieu. So matters stand at present. What will + come of it, I know not. I doubt not that the cardinal's hostility to + Bouillon does not arise solely from the Soissons affair, which but serves + him as a pretext. You see his object for the past four years has been to + strengthen France by extending her frontiers to the east by the conquest + of Lorraine. He has already carried them to the Upper Rhine, and by + obtaining from the Duke of Savoy Pinerolo and its dependencies has brought + them up to the foot of the Alps. + </p> + <p> + “But my brother's dukedom stands in the way of his grand project, for it + is a gate through which an enemy from beyond the Rhine might invade + France; and, moreover, the close family relationship between us and the + Prince of Holland would add to the danger should Holland, at present our + ally, fall out with France. Thus the possession of Bouillon's dukedom, or + at any rate its military occupation for a time, is a consideration of + vital importance to the kingdom. Such, you see, is the situation. Were I + not an officer in the French army doubtless my feelings would be on the + side of my brother. As it is, I am a faithful servant of the king and his + minister, and should deem it the height of dishonour were I to use my + influence against what I perceive is the cause of France. I tell you this + in order that you may understand the various matters which might surprise + you at Sedan. + </p> + <p> + “You go there as a patient to be nursed by the duchess, my sister-in-law, + and having no influence, and at present not even the strength to use your + sword, there is little fear that any will seek to involve you in these + party turmoils. I shall write to my brother that you are a soldier of + France and that you have done her good service, that you are a protege of + mine, and being of Scottish blood belong to no party save my party, and + that I entreat that he will not allow anyone to set you against the + cardinal, or to try and attach you to any party, for that I want you back + again with me as soon as you are thoroughly cured.” + </p> + <p> + Hector would much rather have remained to be cured in Italy, but he did + not think of raising the slightest objection to Turenne's plans for him, + and the next day he started for Sedan, taking, of course, Paolo with him. + The convoy traveled by easy stages over the passes into France, and then, + escorted by a sergeant and eight troopers, Hector was carried north to + Sedan. Though still very weak, he was able to alight at the entrance of + the duke's residence, and sent in Turenne's letters to him and the + duchess. Three minutes later the duke himself came down. + </p> + <p> + “Captain Campbell,” he said heartily, “my brother has done well in sending + you here to be taken care of and nursed. In his letters to me he has + spoken of you more than once, especially with reference to the manner in + which you carried a message for him to the citadel of Turin. I shall be + glad to do anything that I can for so brave a young officer, but I fear + that for the present you will have to be under the charge of the duchess + rather than mine.” + </p> + <p> + The duke was a tall, handsome man with a frank and open face, a merry + laugh, and a ready jest. He was extremely popular, not only in his own + dominions, but among the Parisians. His fault was that he was led too + easily. Himself the soul of honour, he believed others to be equally + honourable, and so suffered himself to become mixed up in plots and + conspiracies, and to be drawn on into an enterprise wholly foreign to his + nature. + </p> + <p> + “I will take you at once to the duchess, but I see that you are quite + unfit to walk. Sit down, I beg you, until I get a chair for you.” + </p> + <p> + Three or four minutes later four lackeys came with a carrying chair, and + Hector was taken upstairs to the duchess's apartments. + </p> + <p> + “This is the gentleman of whom Turenne has written to me, and doubtless, + as I see by that letter upon the table, to you also. He has been a good + deal damaged, having been ridden over by a squadron of Prince Thomas's + horsemen, and needs quiet and rest.” + </p> + <p> + “Turenne has told me all about it,” the duchess said. “I welcome you very + heartily, monsieur. My brother says that he has great affection for you, + and believes you will some day become a master in the art of war. He says + you have rendered him most valuable services, which is strange indeed, + seeing that you are as yet very young.” + </p> + <p> + “I was sixteen the other day, madam.” + </p> + <p> + “Only sixteen, and already a captain!” she exclaimed. + </p> + <p> + “I was made a captain nine months ago,” he said, “for a little service + that I performed to his satisfaction.” + </p> + <p> + “Turenne would not have promoted you unless it had been an important + service, I am sure,” she said with a smile. “He does great things himself, + and expects great things from others.” + </p> + <p> + “It was the affair of carrying the message to the garrison of the citadel + of Turin urging them to hold out, as he would come to their relief soon,” + the duke said. “Do you not remember that he wrote us an account of it?” + </p> + <p> + “I remember it perfectly. Turenne said a young officer, but I did not + imagine that it could have been but a lad. However, Captain Campbell, I + will not detain you here talking, or you will begin by considering me to + be a very bad nurse. Directly I received the letter I ordered a chamber to + be prepared for you. By this time all will be in readiness, and a lackey + ready to disrobe you and assist you to bed.” + </p> + <p> + “I do not need,” he began, but she held up her finger. + </p> + <p> + “Please to remember, sir, that I am head nurse here. You will go to bed at + once, and will take a light repast and a glass of generous wine. After + that our surgeon will examine you, and remove your bandages, which have + been, I doubt not, somewhat disarranged on your journey; then he will say + whether it will be advisable that you should keep your bed for a time, + which will, I think, be far the best for you, for you will be much more + comfortable so than on a couch, which, however good to be sat upon by + those in health, affords but poor comfort to an invalid. Have you brought + a servant with you?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, madam. He is a very faithful lad, and accompanied me on that + enterprise that you have been speaking of. He is a merry fellow, and has + proved himself a good and careful nurse. He sat up with me for many nights + when I was first hurt, and has ever since slept on the floor in my room.” + </p> + <p> + “I will give him in charge of my majordomo, who will see that he is well + taken care of, and we can have a pallet laid for him at night on the floor + of your room.” + </p> + <p> + She herself led the way to a very comfortable apartment where a fire was + burning on the hearth; a lackey was already in waiting, and after a few + kind words she left him. + </p> + <p> + “I have fallen into good hands indeed,” Hector said to himself. “What + would Sergeant MacIntosh say if he knew that I was lodged in a ducal + palace, and that the duke and duchess had both spoken to me and seen after + my comfort as if I had been a relation of their own?” + </p> + <p> + In spite of the care and attention that he received, Hector's recovery was + slow, and even when spring came the surgeon said that he was unfit for + severe work. However, the letters that he received from time to time from + de Lisle and Chavigny consoled him, for not only had the winter passed + without any incident save the capture of three or four towns by Turenne, + but it was not at all likely that any events of great importance would + take place. All accounts represented the Spaniards as being engaged in + adding to the strength of three or four towns in the duchy of Milan, so + that evidently they intended to stand upon the defensive. + </p> + <p> + The palace of Sedan was the centre of a formidable conspiracy against + Richelieu. Messengers came and went, and Bouillon, Soissons, and the + Archbishop of Rheims were constantly closeted together. They had various + allies at court, and believed that they should be able to overthrow the + minister who had so long ruled over France in the name of the king. + </p> + <p> + As Hector was now able to move about, and was acquainted with all the + members of the duke's household, he learned much of what was going on; and + from a conversation that he accidentally overheard, he could see that the + position was an extremely serious one, as a treaty had been signed with + Ferdinand, son of the King of Spain, and the Archduke Leopold-William, son + of the Emperor of Austria, by which each agreed to assist the duke and his + friends with a large sum of money for raising soldiers, and with seven + thousand men. In order to justify themselves, the heads of the movement + issued a manifesto, in which they styled themselves Princes of Peace. In + this they rehearsed the cardinal's various acts of tyranny and cruelty + towards his rivals, the arbitrary manner in which he carried on the + government, and declared that they were leagued solely to overthrow the + power that overshadowed that of the king, plunged France into wars, and + scourged the people with heavy taxation. + </p> + <p> + As soon as this manifesto was published in Sedan, Hector went to the duke. + </p> + <p> + “My lord duke,” he said, “I cannot sufficiently thank you for the + hospitality and kindness with which you and the duchess have treated me. + Nevertheless, I must ask you to allow me to leave at once.” + </p> + <p> + “Why this sudden determination, Captain Campbell?” + </p> + <p> + “If, sir, I were but a private person I should have no hesitation, after + the kindness that you have shown me, in requesting you to give me + employment in the force that you are raising; but I am an officer of the + king, and what is of far greater importance at the present moment, an + aide-de-camp of the Viscount Turenne, your brother. Were it reported that + I was with your army, or even indeed that I was here, the cardinal would + at once conclude that I was representing the viscount, and was perhaps the + intermediary through whom communications between you and your brother were + being carried on. Therefore I should not only compromise myself, which is + of no importance, but I might excite suspicion in Richelieu's mind against + your brother, which might result in his recall from the position in which + he has so distinguished himself, and grievously injure his prospects. The + viscount himself warned me against mixing myself with any party, saying + that a soldier should hold himself free from all entanglement, bent only + on serving, to the utmost of his power, the king and France.” + </p> + <p> + “You are right,” the duke said heartily. “Turenne has no grievances + against king or cardinal, and has acted wisely in holding himself aloof + from any party; and badly as I am affected towards Richelieu, I will own + that he has never allowed my brother's relationship towards me to prevent + his employing him in posts of honour. I have never sought to influence him + in the slightest, and am far too proud of the credit and honour he has + gained to do aught that would in any way cause a breach between him and + the cardinal. What you have said is very right and true. Doubtless + Richelieu has spies in this town, as he has elsewhere, and may have + learned that a young officer on my brother's staff was brought here last + autumn grievously wounded. But it is certainly well that now, as the time + for action is at hand, you should retire. You are not thinking, I hope, of + returning at once, for it was but a day or two ago that the surgeon + assured me that it would need another three or four months of quiet before + you would be fit to resume your duties.” + </p> + <p> + “I feel that myself, my lord, and moreover I think that it would be as + well that I should not join the viscount at present, for it might well be + supposed that I was the bearer of some important news from you to him; + therefore I propose to go to Geneva, and remain there until I have + completely recruited my strength. In the Swiss republic I should pass + unnoticed, even by the cardinal's agents. And the fact that, although + being but a comparatively short distance from Piedmont, I abstained from + joining the general, would, if they inquired, show that I could not have + been entrusted with any private communication from you to him.” + </p> + <p> + “It could not be better,” the duke said. “When you leave here you should + no longer wear that military scarf. Of course, when you enter Switzerland + there is no reason why you should disguise the fact that you are a French + officer, and having been severely wounded, have come there to repair your + health. Doubtless many others have done so; and, dressed as a private + person, you would excite no attention. But the Swiss, who strive to hold + themselves neutral and to avoid giving offence, might raise objections to + a French officer wearing military attire staying among them.” + </p> + <p> + That evening Hector bade his adieu to the duchess and to the friends he + had made during his stay, and the next morning, attended by Paolo, he + started for Geneva. + </p> + <p> + “I am glad indeed that we are off, master,” the latter said. “In truth, + had I stayed here much longer I should have become useless from fat and + idleness, for I have had nothing whatever to do but to eat and sleep.” + </p> + <p> + “I am glad to be off, too, Paolo. I am convinced myself, in spite of what + the surgeon says, that actual exercise will do more for me than the + doctor's potions and rich food. I am stiff still, but it is from doing + nothing, and were it not that coming from here my presence might be + inconvenient for Turenne, I would journey straight to his camp. You saw + the prince's manifesto?” + </p> + <p> + Paolo nodded. “I did, master. Not being able to read or write, I could + make nothing of it myself, but a burgher coming along read it aloud, and + it made me shake in my shoes with fright. I made my way as quickly as I + could from so dangerous a spot, for it seemed nothing short of treason to + have heard such words read against the cardinal.” + </p> + <p> + “I fear that the duke has made a terrible mistake, Paolo. Hitherto all who + have ventured to measure their strength with the cardinal have been + worsted, and many have lost everything and are now fugitives from France. + Some have lost their lives as well as honours and estates. Bouillon is an + independent prince, and so was Lorraine, and although the latter could put + ten men in the field to every one the duke could muster, he has been + driven from his principality. Soissons could not help him except with his + name, nor can the Archbishop of Rheims. Not a few of the great nobles + would join the duke did they think that he had a prospect of success. None + have so far done so, though possibly some have given him secret pledges, + which will count for nothing unless it seems that he is likely to triumph. + </p> + <p> + “It is rumoured, as you know, that he has made an alliance with Spain and + Austria. Both will use him as an arm against France, but will throw him + over and leave him to his fate whenever it suits them. Moreover, their + alliance would assuredly deter any, who might otherwise range themselves + with him, from taking up arms. No Huguenot would fight by the side of a + Spaniard; and although the Guises and the Catholic nobles allied + themselves with Spain against Henri of Navarre, it was in a matter in + which they deemed their religion in danger, while this is but a quarrel + between Bouillon and the cardinal; and with Spain fighting against France + in the Netherlands, they would not risk their lands and titles. Bouillon + had better have stood alone than have called in the Spaniards and + Austrians. We know whose doing that is, the Archbishop of Rheims, who is a + Guise, and, methinks, from what I have seen of him, a crafty one. + </p> + <p> + “I am sure that neither the duke nor Soissons would, unless won over by + the archbishop, have ever consented to such a plan, for both are + honourable gentlemen, and Soissons at least is a Frenchman, which can + hardly be said of Bouillon, whose ancestors have been independent princes + here for centuries. However, I fear that he will rue the day he championed + the cause of Soissons. It was no affair of his, and it is carrying + hospitality too far to endanger life and kingdom rather than tell two + guests that they must seek a refuge elsewhere. All Europe was open to + them. As a Guise the archbishop would have been welcome wherever Spain had + power. With Spain, Italy, and Austria open to him, why should he thus + bring danger and misfortune upon the petty dukedom of Sedan? The same may + be said of Soissons; however reluctant Bouillon might be to part with so + dear a friend, Soissons himself should have insisted upon going and taking + up his abode elsewhere. Could he still have brought a large force into the + field, and have thus risked as much as Bouillon, the case would be + different, but his estates are confiscated, or, at any rate, he has no + longer power to summon his vassals to the field, and he therefore risks + nothing in case of defeat, while Bouillon is risking everything.” + </p> + <p> + “I daresay that that is all true, master, though in faith I know nothing + about the matter. For myself, it seems to me that when one is a noble, and + has everything that a man can want, he must be a fool to mix himself up in + troubles. I know that if the King of France were to give me a big estate, + and anyone came to me and asked me to take part in a plot, I would, if I + had the power of life and death, have him hung up over the gate of my + castle.” + </p> + <p> + “That would be a short way, no doubt, Paolo, but it might not keep you out + of trouble,” Hector said, smiling. “If the person who came to you were + also a noble, his family and friends would rise in arms to avenge his + death, and instead of avoiding trouble you would bring it at once upon + your head.” + </p> + <p> + “I suppose that would be so, master,” Paolo said thoughtfully; “so I think + that it would be best for me that the king should not take it into his + head to give me that estate. And so we are going to Geneva, master?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes.” + </p> + <p> + “That pleases me not,” the other one said, “for I have heard of it as a + terribly serious place, where a man dares not so much as smile, and where + he has to listen to sermons and exhortations lasting half a day. My father + was a Huguenot, and I suppose that I am, too, though I never inquired very + closely into the matter; but as for exhortations of four hours in length, + methinks I would rather swim those moats again, master, and to go all day + without smiling would be a worse penance than the strictest father + confessor could lay upon me.” + </p> + <p> + “I own that I am somewhat of your opinion, Paolo. My father brought me up + a Protestant like yourself, and when I was quite young I had a very dreary + time of it while he was away, living as I did in the house of a Huguenot + pastor. After that I attended the Protestant services in the barracks, for + all the officers and almost all the men are Protestants, and, of course, + were allowed to have their own services; but the minister, who was a + Scotchman, knew better than to make his discourses too lengthy; for if he + did, there was a shuffling of jackboots on the stone floor and a clanking + of sabres that warned him that the patience of the soldiers was exhausted. + In our own glen my father has told me that the ministers are as long + winded as those of Geneva; but, as he said, soldiers are a restless + people, and it is one thing for men who regard their Sunday gathering as + the chief event in the week to listen to lengthy discourses, but quite + another for soldiers, either in the field or a city like Paris, to do so. + However, if we do not find Geneva to our taste, there is no reason why we + should tarry there, as Zurich lies on the other end of the lake, and + Zurich is Catholic, or at any rate largely so, and Calvinist doctrines + have never flourished there. But, on the other hand, the sympathies of + Geneva have generally been with France, while those of Zurich are with + Austria; therefore I think that if we like not Geneva we will go to Lyons, + where, as an officer of Viscount Turenne's, I am sure to be well + received.” + </p> + <p> + “Why not go there at once, master?” + </p> + <p> + “Because I think that the fresh air of the lake will brace me up, and + maybe if I find the people too sober minded for me we will go up into the + mountains and lodge there in some quiet village. I think that would suit + both of us.” + </p> + <p> + “It would suit me assuredly,” Paolo said joyfully. “I love the mountains.” + </p> + <p> + Such was indeed the course eventually taken. The strict Calvinism of + Geneva suited neither of them; and after a fortnight's stay there they + went up among the hills, and in the clear brisk air Hector found his blood + begin to run more rapidly through his veins, and his strength and energy + fast returning. Sometimes he rode, but soon found more pleasure in + climbing the hills around on foot, for the mountain paths were so rough + that it was seldom indeed that his horse could break into a trot. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0007" id="link2HCH0007"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER VII: THE DUC D'ENGHIEN + </h2> + <p> + From time to time news came up of what was passing in the world. The + Spaniards had afforded no assistance in men to the duke, for Richelieu had + sent a powerful army into the heart of Flanders, and so kept them fully + occupied. An Austrian force, however, joined that of the duke, and a + battle was fought with the royal army which, under Marshal Chatillon, lay + encamped a league from Sedan. The Austrian general commanded the main + body, the Duc de Bouillon the cavalry, while the Count de Soissons was + with the reserve. At first Chatillon's army had the advantage, but + Bouillon charged with such vehemence that he drove the cavalry of the + royalists down upon their infantry, which fell into confusion, most of the + French officers being killed or made prisoners, and the rest put to rout. + The duke, after the victory, rode to congratulate Soissons, whose force + had not been engaged. He found the count dead, having accidentally shot + himself while pushing up the visor of his helmet with the muzzle of his + pistol. + </p> + <p> + Bouillon soon learned the hollowness of the promises of his allies. The + Spaniards sent neither money nor men, while the Austrians received orders + to march away from Sedan and to join the Spaniards, who were marching to + the relief of Arras. + </p> + <p> + The duke, deserted by his allies, prepared to defend Sedan till the last. + Fortunately for him, however, the position of the French at Arras was + critical. The place was strong, two armies were marching to its relief, + and it would therefore have been rash to have attempted at the same time + the siege of Sedan. The king himself had joined the army advancing against + Bouillon, while the cardinal remained in Paris. Many of those round the + person of the king, foremost among whom was the Marquis of Cinq-Mars, his + master of horse, spoke very strongly in favour of the duke, and + represented that he had been driven to take up arms by the persecution of + the cardinal. The king was moved by their representations, and gave a + complete pardon to Bouillon, who was restored to the full possession of + all his estates in France, while on his part he released the prisoners, + baggage, and standards taken in the late battle. + </p> + <p> + This was welcome news to Hector, who at once prepared to cross into Italy; + but when they reached Chambery he heard that Turenne had been ordered to + join the army that was collected near the Spanish frontier, in order to + conquer Roussillon, which lay between Languedoc and Catalonia. The latter + province had been for three years in a state of insurrection against + Spain, and had besought aid from France. This, however, could not easily + be afforded them so long as the fortress of Perpignan guarded the way, and + with other strongholds prevented all communication between the south of + France and Catalonia. As it was uncertain whether Turenne would follow the + coast route or cross the passes, Hector and his companion rode forward at + once, and arrived at Turin before he left. + </p> + <p> + “I am glad to see you back again,” the general said as Hector entered his + room, “and trust that you are now strong again. Your letter, giving me + your reasons for leaving Sedan, was forwarded to me by a messenger, with + others from my brother and his wife. He speaks in high terms of you, and + regretted your leaving them; but the reason you gave for so doing in your + letter to me more than justified the course you took, and showed that you + were thoughtful in other than military matters. You served me better by + leaving Sedan than you could have done in any other way. In these unhappy + disputes with my brother, the cardinal has never permitted my relationship + to Bouillon to shake his confidence in me. But after being engaged for + many years in combating plots against him, he cannot but be suspicious of + all, and that an officer of my staff should be staying at Sedan when the + dispute was going to end in open warfare might well have excited a doubt + of me while, had you traveled direct here at that moment, it might, as you + said, have been considered that you were the bearer of important + communications between my brother and myself. + </p> + <p> + “Now, I hope that you are completely restored to health; you are looking + well, and have grown a good deal, the consequence, no doubt, of your being + so long in bed. You have heard that I am ordered to Roussillon, of which I + am glad, for the war languishes here. The king, I hear, will take up his + headquarters at Narbonne, and Richelieu is coming down to look after + matters as he did at Rochelle. So I expect that things will move quickly + there. They say the king is not in good health, and that the cardinal + himself is failing. Should he die it will be a grievous loss for France, + for there is no one who could in any way fill his place. It has been + evident for some time that the king has been in weak health. The dauphin + is but a child. A regency with the queen as its nominal head, and + Richelieu as its staff and ruler, would be possible; but without Richelieu + the prospect would be a very dark one, and I cannot think of it without + apprehension. However, I must continue to do as I have been doing ever + since Bouillon fell out with the court; I must think only that I am a + soldier, prepared to strike where ordered, whether against a foreign foe + or a rebellious subject. + </p> + <p> + “Happily my family troubles are over. I hear that there is a probability + that, now Bouillon has been restored to favour, he will obtain the command + of the army in Italy, which will just suit his active spirit.” + </p> + <p> + Three days later Turenne with his staff crossed the Alps, and journeying + across the south of France reached Perpignan. The Marquis of Mielleraye + was in supreme command, and Turenne was to act as his lieutenant; the + latter at once took charge of the operations of the siege of Perpignan, + which had already been beleaguered for some months by the French. The + fortress was a very strong one, but as the efforts of the Spanish to + reinforce the garrison by a landing effected on the coast failed + altogether, and as the operations of Mielleraye in the field were + successful, and there was no chance of any relief being afforded to the + besieged town by a Spanish army advancing through Catalonia, it was + certain that the fortress must in time surrender by hunger. As it could + not be captured by assault unless with a very heavy loss indeed, Turenne + contented himself with keeping up so vigilant a watch round it that its + communications were altogether cut off, and the garrison knew nothing + whatever of what was passing around them. + </p> + <p> + The Duc de Bouillon had received the command of the army in Italy, and + Turenne hoped that henceforth his mind would be free from the family + trouble that had for the past four years caused him great pain and + anxiety. Unfortunately, however, Cinq-Mars, the king's master of horse and + personal favourite, had become embroiled with the cardinal. Rash, + impetuous, and haughty, the young favourite at once began to intrigue. The + Duke of Orleans, the king's only brother, one of the most treacherous and + unstable of men, joined him heart and soul, and Bouillon was induced to + ally himself with them, not from any political feeling, but because + Cinq-Mars had been mainly instrumental in obtaining terms for him before, + and appealed to his sense of gratitude to aid him now. He insisted, + however, that this time there should be no negotiating with Spain and + Austria, but that the movement should be entirely a French one. + </p> + <p> + Unknown to him, however, the others entered into an alliance with Spain, + who engaged to find money and an army. The conspirators had gained the ear + of the king, Cinq-Mars representing to him that their hostility was + directed solely against the cardinal, and the latter was in great + disfavour until he obtained a copy of the treaty with Spain. The + disclosure opened the king's eyes. The Duke of Orleans, Cinq-Mars, + Monsieur de Thou, his intimate friend, and de Bouillon were at once + arrested. Orleans immediately turned traitor to his fellow conspirators, + revealed every incident of the plot, and was sentenced to exile. Cinq-Mars + and de Thou were tried and executed. De Bouillon saved his life by + relinquishing his principality to France, any hesitation there may have + been in sparing him on those terms being removed by the receipt of a + message from the duchess, that if her husband were put to death she would + at once deliver Sedan into the hands of the Spaniards. De Bouillon was + therefore pardoned, and in exchange for the surrender of his principality, + his estates in France were to be enlarged, and a considerable pension + granted to him. + </p> + <p> + All this was a terrible trial to Turenne, who was deeply attached to his + brother, and who mourned not only the danger he had incurred, but that he + should have broken his engagements, and while commanding a royal army + should have plotted against the royal authority. + </p> + <p> + At the end of November the cardinal's illness, from which he had long + suffered, took an unfavourable turn, and the king, who had returned to + Paris, went to see him. Richelieu advised him to place his confidence in + the two secretaries of state, Chavigny and de Noyers, recommended Cardinal + Mazarin strongly as first minister of the crown, and handed the king a + document he had prepared barring the Duke of Orleans from any share in the + regency in case of the king's death, the preamble calling to mind that the + king had five times pardoned his brother, who had yet recently engaged in + a fresh plot against him. On the 2nd of December, 1642, Richelieu died, + and the king, on the following day, carried out his last advice, and + appointed Mazarin to a place in his council. + </p> + <p> + The year had passed quietly with Hector Campbell. His duties had been but + slight during the siege, and as during his stay at Sedan and in + Switzerland he had continued to work hard at Italian, at the former place + under a teacher, who instructed him in more courtly dialect than that + which he acquired from Paolo, so during the six months before Perpignan he + had, after taking the advice of Turenne, set himself to acquire a + knowledge of German. Working at this for eight hours a day under the + tuition of a German gentleman, who had been compelled to leave the country + when his native town was captured by the Imperialists, he was soon able to + converse as fluently in it as in Italian. + </p> + <p> + “It is in Germany that the next great campaign is likely to take place,” + Turenne said to him, “and your knowledge of German will be of infinite + utility to you. Fortunately for myself, Sedan standing on the border + between the two countries, I acquired German as well as French without + labour, and while in Holland spoke it rather than French; the knowledge of + languages is of great importance to one who would rise high in the army or + at the court, and I am very glad that you have acquired German, as it may + be of great use to you if we are called upon to invade that country again, + that is, if the new council of the king are as kindly disposed towards me + as Richelieu always showed himself to be; but I fear that ere long there + may be changes. The king's health is very poor. He may not live long, and + then we have a regency before us, and the regencies of France have always + been times of grievous trouble. + </p> + <p> + “Even had Richelieu lived he might not have been able to avert such + disasters. He and the queen have never been friends, and he would not have + had the support from her that he has had from the king, who, although he + no doubt fretted at times under Richelieu's dictation, yet recognized his + splendid genius, and knew that he worked heart and soul for the good of + France. However, his death is a sore misfortune. A regency needs a strong + head, but where is it to come from? The Duke of Orleans is a schemer + without principle, weak, easily led, ambitious, and unscrupulous. The + Prince of Conde is equally ambitious, even more grasping, and much more + talented. There is no one else, save men like Chavigny, the father of our + friend here, de Noyers, and some others of good family, honest and capable + business men, but who would speedily become mere ciphers; and Cardinal + Mazarin, who has just been appointed to the council.” + </p> + <p> + “Do you know him, sir?” Hector asked. + </p> + <p> + “I have seen him more than once. He is said to be very clever, and it is + no secret that he is nominated to the council on Richelieu's + recommendation, which speaks volumes in his favour, for Richelieu was a + judge of men, and must have believed, when recommending him, that Mazarin + would render good service to France. But however clever he is he cannot + replace the great cardinal. On him was stamped by nature the making of a + ruler of men. He was tall, handsome, and an accomplished cavalier. Seeing + him dressed as a noble among noblemen, one would have picked him out as + born to be the greatest of them. No doubt this noble appearance, aided by + his haughty manner and by his ruthlessness in punishing those who + conspired against him, had not a little to do with his mastery over men. + </p> + <p> + “Mazarin is a man of very different appearance. He is dark in complexion, + handsome in a way, supple, and, I should say, crafty; an Italian rather + than a Frenchman. Such a man will meet with difficulties far greater than + those which assailed Richelieu. The latter, personally fearless, went + straight to his end, crushing his enemies if they stood in his way, + possessed of an indomitable will and unflinching determination. Mazarin, + if I mistake not, will try to gain his end by other means—by + intrigues, by setting those who oppose him against each other, by yielding + rather than by striking. He is said to stand high in the queen's favour, + and this will be a great aid to him; for those who might rebel against the + authority of a cardinal will hesitate to do so when he has at his back the + protection and authority of a queen. However, we must hope for the best. + It is probable that Richelieu acquainted him with all his plans and + projects, and urged him to carry them into effect. I sincerely trust that + he will do so; and in that case, if he comes to the head of affairs, I + should assuredly serve him as willingly and faithfully as I served + Richelieu, knowing that it will be for the good of France.” + </p> + <p> + It was, indeed, but a short time after the loss of his great adviser that + the king followed him to the tomb. He had for long suffered from bad + health, and now that the statesman who had borne the whole burden of + public affairs had left him, he felt the weight overpowering. He had + always been devoted to religious exercises, and saw his end approaching + without regret, and died calmly and peacefully on May 14, 1643. By his + will he left the queen regent. He had never been on good terms with her, + and now endeavoured to prevent her from having any real power. The Duke of + Orleans was appointed lieutenant general, but as the king had rightly no + confidence in him, he nominated a council which, he intended, should + override both. It was composed of the Prince of Conde, Cardinal Mazarin, + the chancellor, Seguerin, the secretary of state, Chavigny, and + superintendent Bouthillier. The king's will prohibited any change whatever + being made in the council, but this proviso was not observed. The queen + speedily made terms with the ministers; and when the little king was + conducted in great state to the parliament of Paris, the Duke of Orleans + addressed the queen, saying that he desired to take no other part in + affairs than that which it might please her to give him. The Prince of + Conde said the same; and that evening, to their astonishment, the queen + having become by their resignation the sole head of the administration, + announced that she should retain Cardinal Mazarin as her minister, and + shortly afterwards nominated Turenne to the command of the army in Italy. + Prince Thomas had now broken altogether with the Spaniards, finding that + their protection was not available, for the King of Spain had been obliged + to recall a considerable proportion of his troops from Italy to suppress + an insurrection in Catalonia. Hector did not accompany Turenne to Italy, + for early in April Turenne had said to him: + </p> + <p> + “There seems no chance of employment here at present, Campbell, while + there is likely to be some heavy fighting on the Rhine frontier. + </p> + <p> + “The death of Richelieu has given fresh courage to the enemies of France, + and I hear that de Malo, the governor of the Low Countries, has gathered a + large army, and is about to invade France. Our army there is commanded by + the young Duc d'Enghien, the Prince of Conde's son. He is but twenty-two, + and of course owes his appointment to his father's influence. The king + has, however, sent with him Marshal de l'Hopital, who will be his + lieutenant and director. I know Enghien well, and esteem his talents + highly. He is brave, impetuous, and fiery; but at the same time, if I + mistake not, cautious and prudent. I will give you a letter to him. I + shall tell him that you have greatly distinguished yourself while on my + staff, and being anxious above all things to acquire military knowledge + and to serve with honour, I have sent you to him, begging him to give you + the same post on his staff as you have had on mine, asking it as a + personal favour to myself. This, I have no doubt, he will grant. He has + affected my company a good deal when I have been in Paris, and has evinced + the greatest desire to learn as much as he can of military matters from + me.” + </p> + <p> + “I am grateful indeed for your kindness, sir, of which I will most gladly + avail myself, and shall indeed be pleased at the opportunity of seeing a + great battle.” + </p> + <p> + “I wish to show my approbation of the manner in which you have, since you + left me in Italy, endeavoured to do all in your power to acquire useful + knowledge, instead of wasting your time in idleness or gambling, to which + so many young officers in the army give themselves up.” + </p> + <p> + The next day Hector and Paolo joined the army of Enghien as it was on the + march to Eperney. The former was now within a few months of seventeen, of + middle height, strongly built, his hard exercise and training having + broadened him greatly. He had a pleasant and good tempered face, his hair, + which was brown with a tinge of gold, clustered closely round his head, + for he had not adopted the French mode of wearing it in long ringlets, a + fashion unsuited for the work of a campaign, and which de Lisle and + Chavigny had in vain urged him to adopt. He was handsomely dressed, for he + knew that Conde would be surrounded by many of the young nobles of France. + He wore his broad hat with feather; his helmet and armour being carried, + together with his valises, on a sumpter mule led by Paolo. + </p> + <p> + Putting up at an hotel, he made his way to the house occupied by Enghien + and the marshal. It was crowded by young officers, many of whom were + waiting in an anteroom. On one of the duke's chamberlains approaching him + Hector gave his name, and requested him to deliver Viscount Turenne's + letter to the prince. In a few minutes his name was called, to the + surprise of those who had been waiting for some time for an interview. + Enghien was seated at a table, from which he rose as Hector entered. + </p> + <p> + “I am glad to see you, Captain Campbell, both for your own sake and for + that of Turenne, whom I greatly love and admire. As I was with Mielleraye + during the campaign in the south, while you were with Turenne, we did not + meet there, for though he once rode over and stayed for a few days you did + not accompany him. But he has told me of your adventure at Turin, and has + spoken of your diligent studies and your desire to learn all that is known + of the art of war. I shall be glad indeed to have you riding with me, for + I, too, am a diligent student in the art, though until last year I had no + opportunity whatever of gaining practical knowledge. I envy Turenne his + good fortune in having been sent to begin to learn his duty when he was + but fourteen. He tells me that you were but a year older when you rode to + Italy with him. It humiliates me to think that while I am sent to command + an army simply because my father is a prince of the blood, Turenne gained + every step by merit, and is a general in spite of the fact that his + brother was an enemy of the cardinal and defied alike his power and that + of the king. However, I hope to show that I am not altogether unworthy of + my position; and at least, like Turenne, I can lead my troops into battle, + and fight in their front, even if I cannot always come out victorious. + Where have you put up your horses? With the best will in the world, I + cannot put either room or stable at your disposal today, for I believe + that every cupboard in the house is occupied; but at our halting place + tomorrow we shall be under canvas, and a tent shall be assigned to you.” + </p> + <p> + “I thank you, sir. I have fortunately been able to find quarters at an + inn.” + </p> + <p> + “At any rate, I hope that you will sup with me. I will then introduce you + to some of my friends.” + </p> + <p> + Enghien was at the age of twenty-two of a striking rather than a handsome + figure. His forehead was wide, his eyes sunken and piercing, his nose very + prominent and hooked giving to his face something of the expression of an + eagle's. He resembled Turenne in the eagerness with which in childhood he + had devoted himself to his studies, and especially to military exercises; + but except that both possessed a remarkable genius for war, and both were + extremely courageous, there was but slight resemblance between their + characters. While Turenne was prudent, patient, and thoughtful, weighing + duly every step taken, bestowing the greatest pains upon the comfort and + well being of his troops, and careful as to every detail that could bring + about success in his operations, Conde was passionate and impetuous, + acting upon impulse rather than reflection. Personally ambitious, + impatient of opposition, bitter in his enmities, his action and policy + were influenced chiefly by his own ambitions and his own susceptibilities, + rather than by the thought of what effect his action might have on the + destinies of France. He was a born general, and yet but a poor leader of + men, one of the greatest military geniuses that the world has ever seen, + and yet so full of faults, foibles, and weaknesses that, except from a + military point of view, the term “the Great Conde” that posterity has + given him is but little merited. He had much brain and little heart. + Forced by his father into a marriage with a niece of Richelieu's, he + treated her badly and cruelly, although she was devoted to him, and was in + all respects an estimable woman and a true wife, and that in a court where + virtue was rare indeed. + </p> + <p> + At supper that evening Enghien introduced Hector first to the Marshal de + l'Hopital and then to the young nobles of his company. + </p> + <p> + “Monsieur Campbell,” he said, “is the youngest of our party, and yet he + is, as the Viscount of Turenne writes to me, one in whom he has the + greatest confidence, and who has so carefully studied the art of war, and + so much profited by his opportunities, that he would not hesitate to + commit to him any command requiring at once courage, discretion, and + military knowledge. No one, gentlemen, could wish for a higher eulogium + from a greater authority. Turenne has lent him to me for the campaign, and + indeed I feel grateful to him for so doing. When I say, gentlemen, that it + was he who saved the citadel of Turin to our arms, by undertaking and + carrying out the perilous work of passing through the city and the Spanish + lines to carry word to the half starved garrison that succour would arrive + in a fortnight's time, and so prevented their surrendering, you will admit + that Turenne has not spoken too highly of his courage and ability. I have + heard the full details of the affair from Turenne's own lips, when he paid + a short visit to Paris after that campaign closed; and I should feel proud + indeed had I accomplished such an enterprise. Captain Campbell is a member + of an old Scottish family, and his father died fighting for France at the + siege of La Rochelle, a captain in the Scottish regiment. And now, + gentlemen, to supper.” + </p> + <p> + It was a joyous meal, and of a character quite new to Hector. Grave + himself, Turenne's entertainments were marked by a certain earnestness and + seriousness. He set, indeed, all his guests at ease by his courtesy and + the interest he took in each; and yet all felt that in his presence loud + laughter would be out of place and loose jesting impossible. Enghien, on + the other hand, being a wild and reckless young noble, one who chose not + his words, but was wont to give vent in terms of unbridled hatred to his + contempt for those whom he deemed his enemies, imposed no such restraint + upon his guests, and all talked, laughed, and jested as they chose, + checked only by the presence of the gallant old marshal, who was nominally + Enghien's guide and adviser. Next to Hector was seated General Gassion, + one of the finest soldiers of the time. He, like Hector, had no family + influence, but had gained his position solely by his own merits. He was + enterprising and energetic, and eager to still further distinguish + himself, and Hector was not long in perceiving that Enghien had his + cordial support in combating the prudent and cautious counsels of the + marshal. He spoke very cordially to the young captain. He saw in him one + who, like himself, was likely to make his way by merit and force of + character, and he asked him many questions as to his past history and the + various services in which he had been engaged. + </p> + <p> + “I hope some day to win my marshal's baton, and methinks that if you have + as good fortune as I have had, and escape being cut off by bullet or + sabre, you, too, may look forward to gaining such a distinction. You see + all these young men around us have joined rather in the spirit of knight + errants than that of soldiers. Each hopes to distinguish himself, not for + the sake of advancing his military career, but simply that he may stand + well in the eyes of some court beauty. The campaign once over, they will + return to Paris, and think no more of military service until another + campaign led by a prince of the blood like Enghien takes place, when they + will again take up arms and fight in his company. + </p> + <p> + “Such campaigns as those under Turenne in Italy would be distasteful in + the extreme to them. They would doubtless bear the hardships as + unflinchingly as we professional soldiers, but as soon as they could with + honour retire you may be sure they would do so. It is well for us that + they should. Were it otherwise our chances of advancement would be rare + indeed, while as it is there are plenty of openings for men of + determination and perseverance who will carry out precisely any order + given to them, and who are always, whether in the field or in winter + quarters, under the eyes of a commander like Turenne, who remains with his + army instead of rushing off like d'Harcourt to spend his winter in the + gaieties of the court, and to receive their smiles and praises as a reward + for his successes.” + </p> + <p> + “I suppose, general, there is no doubt that we shall give battle to the + Spaniards?” + </p> + <p> + “No doubt whatever. It depends upon Enghien, though no doubt the marshal + will throw every obstacle in the way. In the first place, there can be no + denying that the Spanish infantry are superb, and that Fuentes, who + commands them, is a fine old soldier, while our infantry are largely + composed of new levies. Thus, though the armies are not unequal in + strength, l'Hopital may well consider the chances of victory to be against + us. In the second place, in a battle Enghien will be in command, and + though all of us recognize that he possesses extraordinary ability, his + impetuosity might well lead to a disaster. Then the marshal must feel that + while the glory of a victory would fall to Enghien, the discredit of a + defeat would be given to him, while if aught happened to Enghien himself + the wrath of Conde and his faction would bring about his disgrace. + </p> + <p> + “I doubt not that he has received instructions not to hazard a battle + except under extraordinary circumstances, while Enghien would, if + possible, bring one about under any circumstances whatever. Lastly, the + king is desperately ill, ill unto death, some say, and none can foretell + what would take place were we to suffer a heavy defeat while France is + without some great head to rally the nation and again show face to the + Spaniards. At the same time, I may tell you at once, that in this matter I + am heart and soul with Enghien. I consider that did we shrink from battle + now, it would so encourage Spain and Austria that they would put such a + force in the field as we could scarcely hope to oppose, while a victory + would alter the whole position and show our enemies that French soldiers + are equal to those of Spain, which at present no one believes. And lastly, + if we win, Enghien, when his father dies, will be the foremost man in + France, the leading spirit of the princes of the blood, and having behind + him the vast possessions and wealth accumulated by Conde, will be a power + that even the greatest minister might dread, and I need hardly say that my + marshal's baton would be very appreciably nearer than it is at present.” + </p> + <p> + “Then I may take it,” Hector said with a smile, “that the chances are in + favour of a pitched battle.” + </p> + <p> + “That is certainly so; l'Hopital's instructions are to force the + Spaniards, who have advanced against Rocroi, to raise the siege, but to do + so if possible by manoeuvering, and to avoid anything like a pitched + battle. But I fancy that he is likely to find circumstances too strong for + him, and that one of these mornings we shall stand face to face with the + enemy. + </p> + <p> + “The Spaniards are doubtless grand soldiers, and the army we shall meet is + largely composed of veteran troops; but we must remember that for years + and years the Dutchmen, by nature peaceable and for the most part without + training in arms, and although terribly deficient in cavalry, have boldly + withstood the power of Spain.” + </p> + <p> + “They seldom have met them in the open field,” Hector said doubtfully. + </p> + <p> + “Not very often, I grant, though when allied with your countrymen they + fairly beat them on the sands near Ostend, and that over and over again + they fought them in their breaches on even terms, and, burghers though + they were, beat back Alva's choicest troops.” + </p> + <p> + The next morning the army marched forward. Hector rode with the group of + young nobles who followed Enghien. Rocroi was a town of considerable + strength lying in the forest of Ardennes. It was the key to the province + of Champagne, and its capture would open the road to the Spaniards. The + siege was being pressed forward by de Malo, who had with him an army of + twenty-seven thousand veteran troops, being five thousand more than the + force under Enghien. Gassion, who as Enghien's lieutenant had the control + of the movements, so arranged the marches that, while steadily approaching + Rocroi, the marshal believed that he intended to force the Spaniards to + fall back, rather by menacing their line of communications than by + advancing directly against them. + </p> + <p> + After the first day Gassion invited Hector to ride with him, an invitation + which he gladly accepted, for the conversation of his younger companions + turned chiefly upon court intrigues and love affairs in Paris, and on + people of whose very names he was wholly ignorant. Riding with Gassion + across from one road to another along which the army was advancing, he was + able to see much of the movements of bodies of troops through a country + wholly different from that with which he was familiar. He saw how careful + the general was to maintain communication between the heads of the + different columns, especially as he approached the enemy. + </p> + <p> + “De Malo ought,” he said, “to have utilized such a country as this for + checking our advance. In these woods he might have so placed his men as to + annihilate one column before another could come to its assistance. I can + only suppose that he relies so absolutely upon his numbers, and the valour + and discipline of his soldiers, that he prefers to fight a pitched battle, + where a complete success would open the road to Paris, and thus lay France + at his feet and bring the war to a conclusion at one stroke.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0008" id="link2HCH0008"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER VIII: ROCROI + </h2> + <p> + Gassion conducted the movements of the army so adroitly that he had + brought it to within almost striking distance of the Spanish divisions + before Marshal l'Hopital perceived the fact that it was so placed that a + battle was almost inevitable. He besought Enghien to fall back while there + was yet time, pointing out the orders that had been given that a battle + was not to be hazarded, and the terrible misfortunes that would fall upon + France in case of defeat. Enghien, however, was deaf to his advice, and + refused to acknowledge his authority. + </p> + <p> + Turenne, under similar circumstances, would have drawn off and forced the + enemy to raise the siege by threatening their line of communications; but + Turenne thought nothing of personal glory, and fought only for France. + Enghien, on the other hand, throughout his career was animated by personal + motives, and cared nothing for the general welfare of France. Turenne was + wholly unselfish; Enghien was ready to sacrifice anything or everything + for his own glory or interest. At present, surrounded as he was by young + nobles as eager to fight as he was himself, and backed by Gassion, one of + the most able and enterprising soldiers of the day, he declared that he + had come to fight and would do so. Even had l'Hopital known the news that + had been received by Enghien, he would have been powerless to check or + control him. A courier had indeed the day before brought the young duke a + despatch containing the news of the king's death and peremptory orders not + to fight. Enghien simply put the letter in his pocket, and the contents + were known only to Gassion and a few of his most intimate friends. + </p> + <p> + De Malo was as anxious to bring on a general engagement as was his fiery + opponent. He was kept well informed of what was going on in Paris, and + knew that the king's death was imminent. His position on a plain, + surrounded on all sides by woods and marshes with but one approach, and + that through a narrow defile, was practically impregnable; and by + occupying the defile he could have kept the French at bay without the + slightest difficulty until Rocroi surrendered. He knew, too, that General + Beck with a considerable force was hastening to join him; but he feared + that prudent counsels might at the last moment prevail in the French camp, + or that the news of the king's death might reach them, and he therefore + left the defile open and allowed the French army to gain the plain and + form up in order of battle facing him, without offering the slightest + opposition or firing a single gun. + </p> + <p> + It was late in the afternoon by the time the French were in position, and + as both commanders were anxious that the battle should be a decisive one + neither took any step to bring on the fight, but contented themselves with + preparing for the encounter next morning. The night was cold and somewhat + thick, and the positions of the two armies were marked by lines of fire. + The march had been a long and fatiguing one, and silence soon fell upon + the scene. Enghien wrapped himself in his cloak, and, lying down by a + watch fire, was speedily asleep, wholly unoppressed by the tremendous + responsibilities that he had assumed, or the fact that he had risked the + destinies of France for the sake of his personal ambition, and that in any + case the slaughter that must ensue in the morning would be terrible. + Gassion, however, with a few of the older officers, sat for hours + discussing the probabilities of the battle. Hector, remembering the manner + in which Turenne exercised the most ceaseless vigilance, and nightly + inspected all the outposts, endeavouring to ascertain the plans and + positions of the enemy, had, as night closed in, requested Gassion's + permission to go the rounds. + </p> + <p> + “Certainly, if it so pleases you, Captain Campbell. The watchword tonight + is 'Conde', but I will in addition give you a pass enjoining all officers + to allow you to go where you please, you being on the staff of the prince. + I shall go round myself later on, for de Malo may intend a night attack, + by which he would certainly gain advantages. His troops are fresh, while + ours are weary. He has had every opportunity of studying the ground, while + it is all new to us. Still, I hardly think that he will move till morning. + Enterprise is not the strong point of the Spaniards, they love to fight in + solid bodies, and hitherto their infantry have never been broken by + cavalry. At night they would lose the advantage of their steadiness of + formation. It is clear, by his willingness to allow us to pass the defile + and take up this position, that de Malo is absolutely certain of victory + and will wait, for daylight would permit him to make his expected victory + a complete one, while at night great numbers of our army would be able to + make their escape through the woods.” + </p> + <p> + Hector returned to the spot where his horses were picketed with those of + Enghien's staff. He found Paolo lying down under a tree where he had been + ordered to take up his post, so that Hector could find him if required. + </p> + <p> + “Are you asleep, Paolo?” + </p> + <p> + “No, master; I have been thinking about the battle tomorrow, and where I + had best bestow myself.” + </p> + <p> + “As to that, Paolo, I should say that you had better keep with the + prince's servants here. You will, of course, have your horse saddled and + be ready to ride on the instant. If we are victorious there will be no + occasion for you to move, but if you see that we are beaten, my orders are + that you are not to think of waiting for me. I must keep with the others. + Doubtless the cavalry would cover the retreat, and it would be a serious + inconvenience for me to have to come here to look after you, therefore as + soon as you see that the day has gone against us mount and ride. You can + wait at our halting place of last night until you see the prince's party + come along. If I am alive I shall be with them; if not, my advice to you + is to ride south and to report yourself to Turenne. He will, I doubt not, + either take you into his own service, or give you such strong + recommendations that you will have no difficulty in obtaining a post with + some officer of distinction should you wish to continue with the army. + Now, I am going along our line of outposts, and I intend to reconnoitre + the ground between us and the enemy. That is what Turenne would be doing + were he in command here.” + </p> + <p> + “I will go with you, master; when it comes to reconnoitering, methinks + that I am as good as another. I can run like a hare, and though a bullet + would go faster, I am quite sure that none of these heavily armed + Spaniards would have a chance of catching me.” + </p> + <p> + “I intended to take you with me, Paolo. We shall need as much care and + caution here as we did in getting into the citadel of Turin.” + </p> + <p> + “I think, master, that it would be well for you to leave your armour + behind you. It will be of small avail if you fall into the midst of a band + of Spanish spearmen, while it would be a sore hindrance in passing through + these woods, and the lighter you are accoutred the better.” + </p> + <p> + “That is so, and I will take your advice. I will give it into the charge + of the horse guard. I will, of course, take my sword and pistols, and you + may as well take yours.” + </p> + <p> + “I like a knife better than a sword, master, but I will take the both. I + think it would be as well for you to lay aside your helmet also, for the + light from one of these watchfires might glint upon it and catch the eye + of a Spaniard.” + </p> + <p> + “You are right, Paolo; have you got the hat?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, sir, it is here with your valises.” + </p> + <p> + “That is certainly more comfortable,” Hector said as he put it on. “Now, + you had better carry the things across to that fire where the prince's + staff are sitting. There is no fear of anyone interfering with them + there.” + </p> + <p> + As soon as this had been done they started, picking their way carefully + through numbers of sleeping men, and stopping once or twice to exchange a + word with the groups still gathered round the fires. First they passed + along the whole line of outposts, answering the challenges by the words, + “Officer of the prince's staff on duty.” They found the sentries fairly + vigilant, for with so powerful an enemy within striking distance every + soldier felt that the occasion was one for unusual watchfulness. At each + post Hector questioned the sentinels closely as to whether they had heard + any sounds indicating the movement of troops in the interval between the + two armies, and in only one case was there an affirmative answer. + </p> + <p> + “I heard a sound such as might be made by the clash of armour against a + tree or by an armed man falling. I have listened attentively since, but + have heard nothing more.” + </p> + <p> + “From which direction did the noise seem to come?” + </p> + <p> + “From across there, sir. It seemed to me to come from that copse in the + hollow.” + </p> + <p> + “That is just what I thought might be likely, Paolo,” Hector said as he + walked on. “That hollow ground between the armies, with its wood and low + brushwood, is just the place where an ambush might be posted with + advantage. Turenne would have taken possession of it as soon as darkness + closed in, for it would not only prevent the possibility of the army being + taken by surprise during the night, but it might be invaluable during the + fight tomorrow, for a force ambushed there might take an advancing enemy + in the rear. We will go farther on till we get to a point where the + brushwood extends nearly up to our line. We will enter it there, and make + our way along until we see whether de Malo has taken advantage of our + failure to utilize the wood.” + </p> + <p> + As soon as they reached the point he indicated they moved forward, + crouching low until they reached the bushes; then they crawled along, + keeping outside but close to them. In this way they would be invisible to + any sentries posted near the edge of the wood, and would also avoid the + risk of drawing the enemy's attention by accidentally breaking a dried + branch or even snapping a twig. In ten minutes they entered the wood that + extended along the greater portion of the hollow. + </p> + <p> + “Keep on your hands and knees,” Hector whispered, “and feel the ground as + you go to make sure that there are no broken branches that would crack if + you placed your knee upon them. We may come upon the Spaniards at any + moment. Keep close to me. Touch me if you hear the slightest sound, and I + will do the same to you. The touch will mean stop. Move your sword along + the belt till the handle is round at your back; in that way there will be + no risk of it striking a tree or catching in a projecting root.” + </p> + <p> + “I will do that, master, and will keep my knife between my teeth. It may + be that we shall come upon a Spanish sentinel who may need silencing.” + </p> + <p> + “No, Paolo; only in the last extremity and to save our lives must we + resort to arms. Were a sentry found killed in the morning they would know + that their position in the wood had been discovered. It is most important + that they should believe that their ambush is unsuspected.” + </p> + <p> + Their progress was very slow. When they were nearly opposite the centre of + their position Paolo was suddenly touched by his master. They listened + intently, and could hear at no great distance ahead low sounds at regular + intervals. + </p> + <p> + “Men snoring,” Paolo whispered in his ear. + </p> + <p> + They moved forward again even more cautiously than before. Presently they + stopped, for at the edge of the wood facing the camp they heard a slight + movement and a low clash of arms, as if a sentinel on the lookout had + changed his position. Feeling sure that the guards would all be placed + along the edge of the wood, they moved forward again, stopping every few + yards to listen. There was no doubt now that they were close to a large + body of sleepers. Occasional snores, broken murmurs, and a sound as one + turned from side to side rose from in front of them. + </p> + <p> + “You go round on one side, I will go round on the other, Paolo. We will + meet again when we have passed beyond them. It is important that we should + form some estimate as to their numbers.” + </p> + <p> + In half an hour they met again, and crawled along for some distance side + by side in silence. + </p> + <p> + “How many should you say, Paolo?” + </p> + <p> + “They were lying four deep as far as I could make out, master. I kept very + close to the outside line. I could not count them accurately because of + the trees, but I should say that there were about two hundred and fifty in + a line.” + </p> + <p> + “That was very close to what I reckoned them at. At any rate, it is a + regiment about a thousand strong. They are musketeers, for several times I + went close enough to feel their arms. In every case it was a musket and + not a pike that my hand fell on. Now we will go on till we are opposite + our last watchfire, and then crawl up the hill.” + </p> + <p> + They were challenged as they approached the lines. + </p> + <p> + “A friend,” Hector replied. “An officer of the prince's staff.” + </p> + <p> + “Give the countersign,” the soldier said. + </p> + <p> + “Conde.” + </p> + <p> + “That is right, but wait until I call an officer.” + </p> + <p> + “Good! but make no noise; that is important.” + </p> + <p> + The sentinel went to the watchfire, and an officer sitting there at once + rose and came forward. + </p> + <p> + “Advance, officer of the staff!” he said in low tones. “That is right, + monsieur,” he went on as Hector advanced close enough to be seen by the + light of the fire. + </p> + <p> + “I have a special pass signed by General Gassion,” he said. + </p> + <p> + The officer took it, and looked at it by the light of the fire. + </p> + <p> + “That is all in order,” he said as he returned it; “but the sentry had the + strictest orders that no one coming from the side of the enemy was to be + allowed to enter our lines, even if he gave the countersign correctly, + until he had been examined by an officer.” + </p> + <p> + “He did his duty, sir. One cannot be too careful on the eve of battle. A + straggler might stray away and be captured, and be forced under pain of + death to give up the countersign, and once in our lines much information + might be obtained as to our position. However, I hardly think that any + such attempts will be made. The Spaniards saw us march in and take up our + position, and must have marked where our cavalry and artillery were + posted. Good night!” + </p> + <p> + The greater part of the night had already gone, for in May the days are + already lengthening out. After the troops had fallen out from their ranks + wood had to be collected and rations cooked, and it was past ten o'clock + before any of them lay down, and an hour later, before Hector left on his + expedition. The examination of the outposts had taken more than an hour; + it was now three o'clock in the morning, and the orders were that the + troops should all be under arms before daybreak. Hector returned to the + spot where he had left General Gassion. All was quiet there now, and he + lay down until, somewhat before five, a bugle sounded. The signal was + repeated all along the line, and almost at the same moment the Spanish + trumpets told that the enemy, too, were making preparations for the day's + work. General Gassion was one of the first to spring to his feet. Hector + at once went up to him. + </p> + <p> + “I have come to report, general,” he said, “that I have reconnoitred along + the whole line of wood in the hollow in front, and have found that a + regiment of musketeers about a thousand strong have been placed in ambush + there.” + </p> + <p> + “Then, by heavens, you have done us good service indeed, Captain Campbell! + They might have done us an ill turn had we advanced knowing nothing of + their presence there. Nothing shakes troops more than a sudden attack in + the rear. Please come across with me and repeat the news that you have + given me to the prince himself.” + </p> + <p> + There was bustle all along the line. The troops were falling into their + ranks, stamping their feet to set the blood in motion, swinging their + arms, and growling at the sharp morning air. At the headquarters bivouac + the young nobles were laughing and jesting as they prepared to mount. + </p> + <p> + “Where is the prince?” Gassion asked. + </p> + <p> + “There he lies under his cloak, general. He is still fast asleep. It is + evident that the thought of the coming battle does not weigh heavily upon + him. I acknowledge that I have not closed an eye; I do not think that any + of us have done so.” + </p> + <p> + So sound, indeed, was the prince's sleep that Gassion had to shake him + almost roughly to rouse him. + </p> + <p> + As soon, however, as his eyes opened he leapt to his feet. “I have had a + wonderful night,” he laughed; “never have I slept more soundly on a down + bed than on this hard ground, which, however, as I find, makes my bones + ache wonderfully. Well, it is a fine day for a battle. What is your news, + Gassion?” + </p> + <p> + “It is important, monseigneur. Captain Campbell has spent the night in + reconnoitering on his own account, and has discovered that a thousand + Spanish musketeers are lying in ambush in the copse in the hollow.” + </p> + <p> + “Is that so?” the duke said shortly. “Well, Captain Campbell, you have + rendered us a vital service indeed, and one that I shall not forget. + However, now we are forewarned, we shall know how to deal with them. If I + should fall, Gassion, and you should survive, see that Captain Campbell's + service is duly represented. Now, to horse, gentlemen!” + </p> + <p> + The morning sun rose on the 20th of May on a brilliant scene. The two + armies were disposed along slightly elevated ridges, between which lay the + hollow with its brushwood and copses. Enghien commanded the cavalry on the + right wing, with Gassion as second in command. In place of his helmet the + prince wore a hat with large white plumes, remembering, perhaps, how Henri + of Navarre's white plumes had served as a rallying point. Marshal + l'Hopital commanded the cavalry on the French left, Baron d'Espenan + commanded the infantry in the centre, and Baron Sirot the reserves. The + right of the Spanish army was composed of the German horse led by de Malo, + the Walloons on the left were under the Duke of Albuquerque, while in the + centre were the veteran Spanish infantry under the command of General + Fuentes, who had often led them to victory. He was too old and infirm to + mount a horse, but lay in a litter in the midst of his hitherto + unconquerable infantry. + </p> + <p> + All being ready on both sides, the trumpet sounded, and simultaneously the + cavalry of both armies moved forward. Enghien moved farther to the right, + and then dashing down the slopes led his cavalry along the bottom, fell + suddenly upon the musketeers in ambush and cut them to pieces. Then + galloping forward he fell upon the Spanish left in front and flank. The + impetuous charge was irresistible; the Walloons broke and fled before it, + and were speedily scattered over the plain, pursued by the victorious + French. But upon the other wing de Malo's charge had proved equally + irresistible. L'Hopital's horse was broken and scattered, and, wheeling + his cavalry round, de Malo fell upon the flank and rear of d'Espenan's + infantry, shattered them at once, captured the whole of the French + artillery, and then fell upon the reserves. Baron Sirot, an officer of + great courage and ability, held them together and for a time repelled the + attack of the German cavalry; but these, inspirited by their previous + success, continued their attacks with such fury that the reserves began to + waver and fall back. Enghien was still in pursuit of the Walloons when an + officer rode up with news of the disaster that had befallen the rest of + the army. Enghien grasped the situation instantly, and his military genius + pointed out how the battle might yet be retrieved. His trumpets instantly + recalled his scattered squadrons, and galloping round the Spanish centre + he fell like a thunderbolt upon the rear of de Malo's cavalry, already + exulting in what appeared certain victory. + </p> + <p> + Astounded at this unlooked for attack, they in vain bore up and tried to + resist it; but the weight and impetus of the French assault bore all + before it, and they clove their way through the confused mass of cavalry + without a pause. Then wheeling right and left they charged into the + disorganized crowd of German horsemen, who, unable to withstand this + terrible onslaught, broke and fled, de Malo himself galloping off the + field with his disorganized troopers. Never was a more sudden change in + the fate of a great battle. The French cause had appeared absolutely lost; + one wing and their centre were routed; their reserves had suffered + heavily, and were on the point of giving way. Humanly speaking, the battle + seemed hopelessly lost, and yet in ten minutes victory had been converted + into defeat, and the right and left wings of the Spanish army had ceased + to exist as collected bodies. There remained the Spanish infantry, and + Enghien, recklessly courageous as he was, hesitated to attack the solid + formation that had hitherto proved invincible. + </p> + <p> + While still doubting whether, having defeated the rest of the army, it + might not be best to allow this formidable body to march away unmolested, + news reached him that General Beck, with his reinforcements, would be on + the ground in an hour. This decided him, and he ordered the whole of the + guns that had been rescued from their late captors to be turned on the + Spanish square, and then, collecting his cavalry into a mass, dashed at + it. The Spaniards remained motionless till the French line was within + twenty yards of them, then men stepped aside, a number of guns poured + their contents into the cavalry, while a tremendous volley swept away + their front line. So terrible was the effect, so great the confusion + caused by the carnage, that had the Walloon cavalry been rallied and + returned to the field, the tide of the battle might again have been + changed; but they were miles away, and Enghien rallied his men without a + moment's delay, while the French artillery again opened fire upon the + Spanish square. Again the French cavalry charged and strove to make their + way into the gaps made by the artillery, but before they reached the face + of the square these were closed up, and the guns and musketry carried + havoc among the French squadrons, which again recoiled in confusion. Once + more Enghien rallied them, and, when the French artillery had done their + work, led them forward again with a bravery as impetuous and unshaken as + that with which he had ridden in front of them in their first charge; + nevertheless for the third time they fell back, shattered by the storm of + iron and lead. Enghien now brought up his artillery to close quarters, + Baron de Sirot led up the infantry of the reserve, and the attack was + renewed. + </p> + <p> + The aged Spanish general, though streaming with blood from several wounds, + still from his litter encouraged his soldiers, who, stern and unmoved, + filled up the gaps that had been made, and undauntedly faced their foes. + But the struggle could not be long continued. The square was gradually + wasting away, and occupied but half the ground which it had stood upon + when the battle began. And Fuentes, seeing that further resistance could + only lead to the annihilation of his little band, felt that no more could + be done. There were no signs of Beck coming to his assistance. Indeed the + troops of that general had been met by the cavalry in their flight; these + communicated their own panic to them, and such was the alarm that the + division abandoned its baggage and guns and fled from the field, where + their arrival might still have turned the tide of battle. + </p> + <p> + Fuentes at last ordered his officers to signal their surrender. Enghien + rode forward, but, the Spanish soldiers believing that, as before, he was + but leading his cavalry against them, poured in a terrible volley. He + escaped by almost a miracle, but his soldiers, maddened by what they + believed to be an act of treachery, hurled themselves upon the enemy. The + square was broken, and a terrible slaughter ensued before the exertions of + the officers put a stop to it. Then the remaining Spaniards surrendered. + The battle of Rocroi was to the land forces of Spain a blow as terrible + and fatal as the destruction of the Armada had been to their naval + supremacy. It was indeed a death blow to the power that Spain had so long + exercised over Europe. It showed the world that her infantry were no + longer irresistible, and while it lowered her prestige it infinitely + increased that of France, which was now regarded as the first military + power in Europe. + </p> + <p> + The losses in the battle were extremely heavy. The German and Walloon + cavalry both suffered very severely, while of the Spanish infantry not one + man left the battlefield save as a prisoner, and fully two-thirds of their + number lay dead on the ground. Upon the French side the losses were + numerically much smaller. The German cavalry, after routing those of + l'Hopital, instead of following up the pursuit hurled themselves upon the + infantry, who broke almost without resistance. These also escaped with + comparatively little loss, de Malo leading the cavalry at once against the + French reserves. Among the cavalry commanded by Enghien the loss was very + heavy, and included many gentlemen of the best blood of France. There was + no pursuit; half the French cavalry were far away from the field, the rest + had lost well nigh half their number, and were exhausted by the fury of + the fight; indeed, the fugitive cavalry were miles away before the + conflict ended. The gallant old general, Fuentes, expired from his wounds + soon after the termination of the battle. + </p> + <p> + Hector was with the body of young nobles who followed close behind Enghien + in the three first desperate charges. In the third his horse was shot + under him just as the cavalry recoiled from the deadly fire of the square. + He partly extracted his foot from the stirrup as he fell, but not + sufficiently to free him, and he was pinned to the ground by the weight of + the horse. It was well for him that it was so, for had he been free he + would assuredly have been shot down as he followed the retreating cavalry. + This thought occurred to his mind after the first involuntary effort to + extricate his leg, and he lay there stiff and immovable as if dead. It was + a trying time. The balls from the French cannon whistled over his head, + the musket shots flew thickly round him, and he knew that ere long the + attack would be renewed. + </p> + <p> + Fortunately the fourth advance of the French did not come directly over + him, the commanders purposely leading their troops so as to avoid passing + over the ground where so many of the young nobles had fallen. Not until + the last musket had been discharged and the cessation of the din told that + all was over, did he endeavour to rise. Then he sat up and called to two + dismounted soldiers, who were passing near, to aid him. They at once came + up, and soon lifted the horse so far that he was able to withdraw his leg. + His thick jackboot had protected it from injury, although it had been + partly the cause of his misfortune, for the sole had caught against the + side of the horse and so prevented him from withdrawing it. Nevertheless, + his leg was so numbed that it was some time before he could limp away. He + retraced his steps towards the spot where he had mounted at starting. He + had not gone far when he saw Paolo galloping towards him. The young fellow + gave a shout of joy as he recognized him, and a minute later drew rein by + his side and leapt off his horse. + </p> + <p> + “Thank God I see you alive again, master! Are you wounded?” + </p> + <p> + “No; my horse was killed and fell upon my foot, and has no doubt bruised + it a bit, otherwise I am unhurt.” + </p> + <p> + “It has been terrible, master. I climbed up into that tree beneath which + we halted yesterday and watched the battle. I shouted with joy when I saw + Enghien clear out the ambuscade, and again when he drove the Walloon horse + away; then everything seemed to go wrong. I saw the marshal's cavalry on + the left driven off the field like chaff before the wind. Then the centre + broke up directly they were charged; and as the enemy fell upon the + reserve it seemed to me that all was lost. Then I saw Enghien and his + horsemen coming along like a whirlwind, bursting their way through the + enemy's horse, and in turn driving them off the field. I hoped then that + the battle was all over, and that the Spanish infantry would be allowed to + march away; but no, my heart fell again when, time after time, our cavalry + dashed up against them, and each time fell back again, leaving the slope + behind them covered with dead men and horses; and I shouted aloud when I + saw the artillery move up and the reserves advancing. As soon as I saw + that the square was broken and a terrible melee was going on, I knew that + all was over, and could restrain my impatience no longer, so I mounted my + horse with, I may say, small hope of finding you alive, seeing that you + rode behind Enghien, whose white plumes I could see ever in front of the + line.” + </p> + <p> + “It has been a marvellous victory, Paolo, and there can be no doubt that + Enghien has covered himself with glory. It was his quick eye that saw what + there was to be done, his brain that instantly directed the blow where + alone it could be effectual, and his extraordinary bravery that roused the + enthusiasm of those around him to a point at which no man thought of his + life. But for him it was a lost battle.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, master, I am glad that we have won the battle, but that is as + nothing to me in comparison that you have come out of it safely, and I + think, master, that we have a right to say that we helped in some degree + to bring about the victory by discovering that ambuscade down in the + hollow.” + </p> + <p> + “That had not occurred to me, Paolo,” Hector laughed. “No doubt it was a + fortunate discovery, for had the musketeers lain hidden there until we + were beaten back after our first charge, and then poured their fire into + us, it would doubtless have thrown us into some confusion, and might even + have caused a panic for a while.” + </p> + <p> + “Now, master, if you will mount this horse I will be off and catch + another; there are scores of them running about riderless, some of them + belonging to the marshal's men, but many more to the Germans, and a few + that galloped off riderless each time Enghien fell back.” + </p> + <p> + “Don't take one of those, Paolo; it might be claimed by its master's + lackeys; get one of the best German horses that you can find. You might as + well get two if you can, for I want a second horse while I am here with + the prince.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0009" id="link2HCH0009"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER IX: HONOURS + </h2> + <p> + In half an hour Paolo returned leading two horses. By their trappings and + appearance both had evidently belonged to officers. + </p> + <p> + “Take off the trappings,” Hector said, “then put a saddle on one for me; + shift your own saddle on to the other, and picket your own with the spare + horses of the staff, then we will ride over and get my saddle, bridle, + holsters, and trappings. The horse has carried me well ever since I left + Paris, and I am grieved indeed to lose it.” + </p> + <p> + “So am I, master; it was a good beast, but I think that either of these is + as good, though it will be long before I get to like them as I did Scotty. + We shall want housings for this second horse, master.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes; there will be no difficulty about that. There are scores of dead + horses on the field; choose one without any embroidery or insignia. You + may as well take another pair of holsters with pistols.” + </p> + <p> + Riding across to the spot where Enghien and his officers were forming up + the prisoners, talking courteously to the Spanish officers and seeing to + the wounded, Hector, leaving Paolo to find his fallen horse and shift his + trappings to the one that he rode, cantered up to the spot where Enghien's + white plume could be seen in the midst of a group of officers, among whom + was General Gassion. He saluted as he came up. + </p> + <p> + “I am glad indeed to see you, Captain Campbell,” Enghien said warmly, + holding out his hand; “I feared that you were killed. Some of my friends + told me that you were struck down in the third charge, and that they had + not seen you since and feared that you were slain.” + </p> + <p> + “My horse was killed, prince, and in falling pinned me to the ground, and + being within thirty yards of the Spanish square, I lay without movement + until you came back again and broke them. Then some soldiers so far lifted + my horse that I could get my foot from under it, my servant found and + caught a riderless German horse, and here I am unharmed.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, sir, at the time that you came up General Gassion was just telling + these gentlemen that had it not been for you things might have gone very + differently. Had you not discovered that ambush their fire would have been + fatal to us, for we fell back, as you know, farther than the copse, and a + volley from a thousand muskets would have played havoc among us, and after + so terrible a repulse might well have decided the day against us. For this + great service, rendered by you voluntarily and without orders, I as + commander-in-chief of this army, with the full and warm approval of + General Gassion, appoint you to the rank of colonel, a rank which I am + sure will be confirmed by the queen's minister when I report to him my + reasons for the promotion. General Gassion reports that the man who + accompanied you on this reconnaissance was the same who followed you in + the expedition to Turin. As he is not a soldier I cannot promote him, but + I will order my chamberlain to hand him a purse of a hundred pistoles. + When you return to Turenne, tell him that I owe him my best thanks for + having sent you to me, and that, thanks to the aid of his teaching, you + have been the means of preventing a great disaster to our forces.” + </p> + <p> + “I thank you, indeed, monsieur, for your kindness, and for promoting me so + far beyond my merits, but I hope in the future I shall be able to still + further prove my gratitude.” + </p> + <p> + “That is proved already,” Gassion said, “for although every man today has + fought like a hero, you were the only one in camp that suspected that the + Spanish might be lying in an ambush, and who not only thought it, but took + means to find out whether it was so.” + </p> + <p> + The next morning Enghien informed Hector that he was elected as one of the + three officers who were to have the honour of carrying his despatches to + Paris, and that he was to start in half an hour. Paolo, who was in the + highest state of delight at the purse that had been presented to him the + evening before, was greatly pleased with the prospect. + </p> + <p> + “Heaven be praised, master, that you are not going into another battle! It + was well nigh a miracle that you escaped last time, and such good luck + does not befall a man twice. I have never seen Paris, and greatly do I + long to do so. How they will shout when they hear the news we bring!” + </p> + <p> + “It will not be altogether news to them, Paolo. La Moussaie, Enghien's + intimate friend, who acted as his aide-de-camp during the battle, was sent + off ten minutes after the fight ended with a paper, on which the prince + had pencilled that he had utterly defeated the enemy. He will change + horses at every post, and will be in Paris by this evening. We bear the + official despatches, giving a full account of the battle, and of the total + destruction of the Spanish infantry, with no doubt a list of the nobles + and gentlemen who have fallen. Well, I should think now, Paolo, that when + we have seen enough of Paris and we have journeyed down to Perpignan + again, you will leave my service and buy a farm; you can afford a + substantial one now.” + </p> + <p> + “What, master! I leave your service, where gold comes in in showers, and + where one serves a master whom one loves? No, sir, I am not such a fool as + that. I do not say that when the war is over I may not settle down in a + snug home among the mountains of Savoy, but not until then; besides, I am + but eighteen, and a nice hand I should make at managing a farm.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, get the horses ready at once and the valises packed. You can put + them on my spare horse. The mule will scarce keep up with us, for we shall + certainly travel fast, so you had best hand it over to someone who you + think will treat it kindly.” + </p> + <p> + Twenty minutes later Hector, and two officers who had distinguished + themselves especially in the battle, sat mounted before the tent that had + now been raised for d'Enghien. The young prince himself came out. + “Gentlemen,” he said, handing the three sealed packets, “you will present + these to the queen, who is now Regent of France, for Louis XIII died a + week ago. They contain the despatches and reports of myself and General + Gassion. Your packet, colonel,” he added to Hector, “is General Gassion's + report; it goes more fully into military details than mine. You, Monsieur + de Penthiere, carry my despatches in reference to the battle of yesterday. + You, Monsieur de Caussac, are the bearer of my plans for our future + operations. I think that you will all agree with me that, after the battle + we have won, we shall be able to make ourselves masters of Flanders with + but slight resistance.” + </p> + <p> + The three officers bowed their agreement with the words. + </p> + <p> + “I know not who is in power or on whom the queen chiefly relies for + counsel, but should any questions be put to you, you will, I hope, be able + to express the urgency of prompt action in this matter before the + Spaniards have time to rally from the terrible blow that this defeat has + inflicted upon them. And now, gentlemen, a rapid and pleasant journey. + Orders were sent on last night that four sets of fresh horses should be in + readiness along the road. They are my own horses, and good ones. Twelve + troopers will accompany you; three of these will remain behind at each + stage where you change, and the horses that you have used will be brought + on at a more leisurely pace after you. They will readily find out in Paris + where you are lodged, and I beg that you will retain the horses as a + slight proof of my goodwill.” + </p> + <p> + Then he waved his hand and went into his tent again. The three lackeys, + each holding a spare horse, were sitting in readiness for a start some + fifty yards away. After a moment's conversation the officers rode up to + them. + </p> + <p> + “You must follow us quietly,” one of them said. “For today you can keep up + with us to the end of the first stage. Three fresh horses have been + provided for us, for we ride without a stop to Paris. Three soldiers will + there take charge of the horses we ride. When we go on you will follow + quietly with the horses that you are now leading. It will be impossible + for you to keep up with us.” + </p> + <p> + Then they placed themselves at the head of their escort of dragoons, the + lackeys fell in behind them, and they started at a fast pace. + </p> + <p> + “Do you know where the first relays are?” one of the officers asked the + sergeant in charge of the escort, after they had ridden three or four + miles. + </p> + <p> + “The first is at Rethel, monsieur, the second at Rheims, the third at + Chateau-Thierry, the fourth at Meaux.” + </p> + <p> + “Then we will ride on at once. You have your orders?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, sir.” + </p> + <p> + Whereupon the three officers quickened their pace. The distance to be + traversed was about a hundred and thirty miles, and as they had five + horses, including those they rode, each stage would average about + twenty-six miles. + </p> + <p> + “Now, gentlemen,” de Penthiere said, “it seems to me that it would be a + pity to founder fifteen good horses in order to gain an hour on this + journey. The queen has already received news of the victory, or at least + she will receive it some time today, therefore the details we bring are + not of particular importance. It is now eight o'clock. If we were to + gallop all the way we might do it in twelve hours. The roads in many + places will be bad, and we must stop for meals at least three times; with + the utmost speed we could hardly be in Paris in less than fifteen hours. + Her majesty will scarce want to read long despatches at that time, and may + take it that we ourselves will need a bath and a change of garments, and + the services of a barber, before we could show ourselves in court. Had we + been bearers of the original despatch, we might have gone in splashed from + head to foot. As it is, it seems to me that if we present ourselves with + our papers at seven in the morning we shall have done that which is + necessary. What do you both say?” + </p> + <p> + “I agree with you, de Penthiere. It would be a sore pity to injure good + horses by galloping them at the top of their speed, to say nothing of + knocking ourselves up. Had we been sent off from the field of battle I + should have said, spare neither the horses nor ourselves. But indeed it + seems to me that tomorrow morning will be quite early enough for us to + present ourselves and our despatches. To tell you the truth, I have never + ridden a hundred and thirty miles or so at the pace of a courier. I should + say let us go at a reasonable pace, and get into Paris soon after + midnight, which will give us time for some little sleep, and afterwards to + make ourselves presentable. What say you, Colonel Campbell?” + </p> + <p> + “I have no opinion, messieurs. I know nothing of the manners of the court, + and if you think that tomorrow morning will be quite soon enough for us to + deliver the despatches I am quite willing to fall in with your view. It is + certainly a long ride, and as we marched hither we found that the roads + were very bad, and certainly where the army has passed they are so cut up + by the artillery and wagons that they are sure to be quite unfit for going + at racing speed. Therefore I think that if we present ourselves at the + palace early in the morning, we shall have done all that can be expected + of us.” + </p> + <p> + It was indeed two o'clock in the morning when they arrived at the gates of + Paris. Accustomed though they all were to horse exercise, the journey had + been a very fatiguing one. Until night fell they had ridden briskly, + talking as they went on the probable state of affairs in France and of the + military operations that were likely to be undertaken as the result of the + victory, but progress became slow after darkness set in. The roads were in + many places detestably bad. In passing through forests it was not possible + to travel much beyond a walk, as it was necessary not only to avoid + overhanging arms of trees, but to keep the track, for the road in many + places was nothing more. + </p> + <p> + Once or twice they lost it altogether, and it was only when they hit upon + the house of a peasant or a little village, and obtained a guide, that + they were able to recover their road. Consequently all were thoroughly + exhausted when they reached Paris. The gates were opened to them when it + was understood that they bore despatches from the army. They made their + way to the Hotel Conde. It was illuminated, for the prince had given a + great banquet in honour of the victory won by his son; and although most + of the guests had left long before, a party of the closest friends and + connections of the prince were holding an informal council, when the word + came to them that three officers had arrived with despatches from the Duc + d'Enghien. The prince came down. Hector had dismounted without assistance, + but the other two officers had to be lifted from their saddles. + </p> + <p> + “Are you bearers of any special news, de Penthiere?” the prince asked; for + the two young nobles were well known to him. + </p> + <p> + “No, monseigneur, save that our despatches give full details of the + battle.” + </p> + <p> + “What is our loss?” + </p> + <p> + “It is very heavy,” de Penthiere said. “Fully a hundred men of good blood + have fallen. The loss principally fell upon the cavalry commanded by the + duke, who three times charged the Spanish infantry, and only succeeded at + the fourth attempt in breaking their square.” + </p> + <p> + “And the Spanish infantry?” + </p> + <p> + “Every man was either killed or taken.” + </p> + <p> + “Glorious!” the prince said. “Well, I will not detain you now, for I see + that you can scarce stand, and it would be cruel to keep you up, much as + we desire to hear the particulars.” + </p> + <p> + “I think, monseigneur, that this gentleman, Colonel Campbell, is more in a + condition to talk to you than de Caussac or myself.” + </p> + <p> + “I shall be happy to answer any questions,” Hector said, bowing to the + prince. “I have been campaigning for the last four years under Monsieur de + Turenne, and am accustomed to long journeys and sleepless nights.” + </p> + <p> + “Thank you, colonel. We will not keep you up long.” + </p> + <p> + Some lackeys were ordered to assist the two young nobles to couches, and + then Conde and his companions left the courtyard and entered a small + saloon where they had supped two hours before. Some fresh bottles of wine + and cold viands were at once placed upon the table. Hector drank off a + goblet of wine. + </p> + <p> + “Now, Monsieur le Prince, I will tell you all I know about the fight.” And + he gave Conde and his companions a brief sketch of the various movements + and changes of the battle. + </p> + <p> + “It was a hard fought field indeed,” Conde said, “and the result is a + glorious one for France. Now we will keep you no longer from your couch.” + </p> + <p> + “May I ask, sir, at what time we ought to present ourselves with the + despatches at the palace?” + </p> + <p> + “It will not be necessary for you to present yourselves before ten + o'clock, for it was late last night before her majesty retired. Paris was + wild at the news of the victory, and the reception at the palace was + crowded. Still, I should say that at ten it would be well that you and + your companions should attend there, though you may have to wait for an + hour or more for an audience.” + </p> + <p> + At ten o'clock Hector and his companions presented themselves at the + palace. Seven hours' sleep, a warm bath, and the services of the barber, + who curled the hair of the two young nobles and sprinkled them all with + perfume, did much to restore them, though they were all somewhat stiff, + and every bone seemed to ache. They were kept waiting for half an hour, at + the end of which time the door of the antechamber was opened and their + names were called. The queen, who was still a beautiful woman, was + standing talking to a gentleman, in whose attire there were but few + symbols that would betray to a stranger that he was an ecclesiastic of + high rank. + </p> + <p> + “You are the bearers of despatches from the army, messieurs?” + </p> + <p> + “We have that honour, your majesty,” de Penthiere, who was the senior of + the party, said. “We arrived from Paris at two o'clock this morning, but + did not venture to disturb your majesty at that hour.” + </p> + <p> + “You did rightly,” the queen said graciously. “We already knew that a + great victory had been gained, and could afford to wait for the + particulars. Do you each bear a despatch?” + </p> + <p> + “We do, your majesty,” de Penthiere said, producing that which he bore. + “This, your majesty, is the general report of the Duc d'Enghien of the + events of the battle. Colonel Campbell is intrusted with the more detailed + description of General Gassion. Monsieur de Caussac's despatch contains + the duke's views as to the carrying on of the campaign; these he submits + to the judgment of your majesty and the council.” + </p> + <p> + Cardinal Mazarin stepped forward and took the three documents. + </p> + <p> + “These we will peruse and consider at our leisure,” the queen said, “and I + shall, I hope, see you at my levee this evening. In the meantime I thank + you for your service in having brought the despatches so speedily here, + and am well aware that the fact that you have been chosen as the + messengers of the commander-in-chief is in itself a proof that your share + in the battle was in the highest degree honourable.” + </p> + <p> + She graciously held out her hand, which de Penthiere and his companions, + dropping upon one knee, raised to their lips, one after the other. + </p> + <p> + “You are aware of the contents of the despatches, cardinal,” the queen + said when they were alone. + </p> + <p> + “Of their general scope, madam. The Prince of Conde did me the honour to + call upon me at eight this morning. He had gathered a general account of + the battle from the lips of that young Scottish colonel, who was the only + one of the party who was capable of relating it, the others being almost + speechless with fatigue, for the road from Rocroi hither is long and + rough.” + </p> + <p> + “You may well say the young Scottish colonel, cardinal. He is but a youth, + and it is strange indeed that he should already have attained that rank.” + </p> + <p> + “He has served for four years under the Viscount Turenne,” Mazarin said, + “and must therefore have had good opportunities of distinguishing himself. + Still, it is seldom indeed that any save one of royal blood or of the very + highest families obtains such a rank so quickly. Turenne, however, was + himself a colonel after less than four years service.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, cardinal, but he had the advantage of belonging to the family of an + almost independent sovereign.” + </p> + <p> + “Conde said that he had himself asked the young man how it was that he had + won it, and he replied that it was solely due to the kindness of the Duc + d'Enghien, who had been pleased to consider a small service he had + rendered as worthy of recognition. It is like enough, your majesty, that + we shall see his name mentioned in one of these documents. It is certain + that he would not have been chosen to carry the despatches—a duty + which is regarded as a reward of the most distinguished service—unless + he had done something of marked importance.” + </p> + <p> + The two French officers on leaving the palace at once went off to pay + their respects in the first place to the heads of their families, and + afterwards to visit the various circles and coteries with which they were + connected, and where they would be sure of a flattering welcome and + attentive listeners. Hector, for his part, rode direct to the quarters of + the colonel of the Scottish regiment. A soldier came out and took the + bridle of his horse as he saluted, while a sergeant asked what name he + should announce. + </p> + <p> + “Then you do not remember me, Sergeant Macfarlane?” + </p> + <p> + The soldier looked at him earnestly. “Why,” he exclaimed suddenly, “it's + Hector Campbell!” + </p> + <p> + “Right enough, sergeant.” + </p> + <p> + “You have changed mightily, sir; you were but a laddie when you went away + nigh four years ago. The news came to the regiment that you had been made + a captain, and proud we all were. The colonel will be right glad to see + you,” and he led the way into the house. + </p> + <p> + “Then the regiment has not been on service just lately?” + </p> + <p> + “We had two years on the Rhine; but we came back here last autumn. The Red + Cardinal was not fond of us, but he knew that he could trust us—which + is more than he could have done some of the regiments—so he had us + back again; and we were not sorry, for it was but dull work there—sieges + and nought else.” + </p> + <p> + He was just going to open the door of the inner room when Hector said, + “You can announce me, Macfarlane, as Colonel Campbell.” + </p> + <p> + “Gude Lord,” the sergeant ejaculated, “ye dinna say that ye are a + colonel?” Then reassuming with a great effort his military stiffness, he + opened the door and announced in a loud tone, “Colonel Hector Campbell.” + </p> + <p> + There was an exclamation of astonishment from the colonel and two or three + officers who were sitting with him. + </p> + <p> + “Why, Campbell,” the former said, coming forward and warmly shaking his + hand, “you are changed indeed, and you have come back to us almost the + living image of your father when he first joined.” + </p> + <p> + The officers all shook hands with him warmly, and the colonel went on, + “Macfarlane announced you as colonel, Hector, but surely you cannot have + gained that rank?” + </p> + <p> + “I only obtained it two days ago. You see it is a good thing to be a + prince's aide-de-camp. Turenne, wishing to give me every opportunity of + seeing service, sent me to Enghien with a message asking him to employ me + on his staff.” + </p> + <p> + “And you were at Rocroi?” the colonel exclaimed. “What is the real news of + the battle? It was given out officially last night that we had won a + victory, and there are all sorts of rumours this morning in the town—they + say that three officers arrived last night with full details.” + </p> + <p> + “I was one of the three, colonel; and I have just now come from the palace + after handing my despatches to the queen.” + </p> + <p> + “Then it was Enghien who made you colonel?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, then, you must have done something marked, or you could never have + got the rank. Why, he has half the young nobles of France in his train—he + has not made them all colonels, I suppose?” + </p> + <p> + “No, I suppose not; but we started early the next morning, and therefore + cannot say what promotions were made.” + </p> + <p> + “Still they made yours, Campbell. When did they do that?” + </p> + <p> + “Just after the fight was over.” + </p> + <p> + “Umph! and what for?” + </p> + <p> + “Well, I luckily discovered that the Spaniards had set an ambush.” + </p> + <p> + “Come, come, let us hear all about it. Tell us the whole story of the + fight.” + </p> + <p> + Hector gave all the details. + </p> + <p> + “Well, it certainly seems to have been an extraordinary battle. Everyone + appears to have been beaten in turn.” + </p> + <p> + “Not Enghien's command, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, no; but when cavalry are repulsed three times with a loss, as you + say, of nearly half their numbers, it is pretty well equivalent to a + beating; and if Enghien had not been able to bring up the artillery and + reserves, I take it that the third charge would have been the last. The + ambush that you discovered was, I suppose, that of the thousand musketeers + Enghien charged at the beginning of the fight.” + </p> + <p> + Hector nodded his assent. + </p> + <p> + “Well, it is as well they were found out and surprised before the other + part of the business began, or there is no saying how the battle would + have ended. We heard you had got your company. Turenne himself was good + enough, when he came here to confer with Richelieu that summer, to call at + the barracks and to give me an account of the service you had rendered. We + all agreed that the rank was well earned, and I have no doubt that this + new step has been just as honourably gained. And how do you think matters + are going?” + </p> + <p> + “I know nothing about it, sir, beyond the fact that it was not a secret + that Enghien and Gassion were both in favour of advancing at once into + Flanders, and capturing the Spanish strong places before they could gather + another army together.” + </p> + <p> + “No doubt that would be the best way, but I should doubt very much if + Enghien will be allowed to carry out his plans. You see, the king's will, + appointing a council to act in concert with Conde, Orleans, and the queen, + has been set at nought. The queen is absolute regent, and Mazarin is her + minister—just as Richelieu was minister of Louis. Of course this + victory will put everyone in the best of temper, and make the way easy for + Mazarin just at first, but a defeat would set all the cliques at work + against him. + </p> + <p> + “It is quite true that the defeat would not be his fault, but for some + mysterious reason or other the French always hold the ministers, for the + time being, responsible for military disasters. So long as Mazarin checks + Enghien, and prevents his running any risks of disaster, things are likely + to go on smoothly here, and you may be sure that he will give the prince + no chance of either suffering a defeat or achieving a victory. You see, + the prince and his father together might be a great deal too powerful for + the cardinal. Everyone knows that Conde himself has never cared much for + anything but his own interests. Enghien has the character of being the + most impetuous and violent young noble of the day, and the fact that he + forced this fight when, as is generally known, l'Hopital had the strictest + orders not to risk a battle, makes it clear that Enghien has but little + regard for authority. + </p> + <p> + “You will see that Mazarin will not give him further opportunities of + becoming the idol of France until he has assured himself that he can count + upon his friendship. Mazarin is not Richelieu. The red cardinal won his + way to the leadership of France by proving himself able to defeat all + intrigues against him, and crush every enemy, even those of the most + exalted position. Mazarin has no such antecedents. He is not even a + Frenchman; he does not even look like a noble. That he is clever we may be + sure, or Richelieu would not have recommended him as his successor. But I + fancy that it is the cleverness of an adventurer, and however adroit, an + adventurer, and especially a foreign adventurer, will not hold power in + France very long without exciting the hatred of the community and the + hostility of the nobles. However, I suppose you are remaining here for a + time.” + </p> + <p> + “That I do not know. I would rather return at once to the camp. But I + suppose I must wait for some intimation that I may do so. You see, I am + altogether out of my element in Paris, and I should feel particularly + uncomfortable at the court.” + </p> + <p> + “Who would you rather go to, Enghien or Turenne?” + </p> + <p> + “Just at present there is more doing with Enghien than Turenne, and more + to learn, otherwise I would far rather be with Turenne. Enghien's camp is + too full of young nobles; and I should say that he would take but little + trouble in keeping order and repressing license. Turenne is by no means + unduly strict, but he enforces order, and sets us such an example of + earnestness and attention to work, himself, that he has a right to expect + the same, to some degree, of everyone under him.” + </p> + <p> + “Where are you staying?” + </p> + <p> + “At the Hotel Conde. The prince was good enough this morning to ask me to + establish myself there while I remained in Paris, and I could not very + well decline his invitation.” + </p> + <p> + “I should think not,” one of the other officers laughed. “In these days a + powerful friend is of the greatest use. Without that one has not much + chance of advancement. Not that I want advancement; I would rather remain + as I am, a captain in the Scottish regiment, surrounded by good and loyal + friends and comrades, than be made a general. Still, one likes to have a + grumble sometimes at any rate.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, Home,” the colonel said, “Hector Campbell is a proof that even in + France merit will make its way. That Turenne should have taken a fancy to + him in the first place was fortunate. But Turenne would surely not have + promoted him to be a captain within three or four months of his joining + except for the marked bravery and diligence that he told us he displayed + at Turin; and I have no doubt that when we hear the particulars we shall + find that this promotion now has been equally well deserved, for certainly + Enghien is not likely to have gone out of his way to promote one + altogether a stranger to him when he had so many young nobles round him, + personal friends of his own, belonging to families whom he would wish to + oblige. Of course you will, as one of the bearers of despatches, attend at + the court this evening, Campbell?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, the queen said that she would expect to see us.” + </p> + <p> + “Of course; and you will be envied by every young courtier there. At the + present moment Paris is half wild over the victory of Rocroi, and as you + three will be the representatives of the army, specially selected for the + share you had in the battle, you may be sure that you will be regarded + with eyes of favour by every lady of the court.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, I should think it would be a great nuisance,” Hector said gruffly. + “Hitherto I have had nothing to do with ladies. There were very few with + the Duchess of Savoy, and whenever there were receptions or state + ceremonies of any kind, I was always ready to exchange with de Lisle or + Chavigny, my fellow aides-de-camp. So that during the whole time I was + there, I never but once or twice accompanied the general on such + occasions.” + </p> + <p> + “Ah, you were younger then,” Home laughed. “You have passed eighteen now, + and, as you must know yourself, are by no means bad looking, with a + certain air of freshness and simplicity that is so rare here in Paris that + it will be regarded as refreshing and delightful after the flippancies of + the court gallants.” + </p> + <p> + Hector laughed uncomfortably. “I could not take up flippancies, I am + afraid. But what you say is true, Home; and if I had to remain at court, I + suppose I should have to set to work at once to cultivate some affectation + or other to counteract this simplicity of which you speak. However, thank + goodness, I do not suppose that I shall stay here long. At any rate, it is + lucky that I purchased a new court suit before I started to join the Duke + of Enghien. Coming from Viscount Turenne I thought that I was bound to + make a good figure among the crowd of young nobles round Enghien, but it + made a large hole in my savings.” + </p> + <p> + “Do you mean to say that you had savings?” one of the other officers + exclaimed. “Who ever heard of such a thing? I never have a pistole left in + my pocket a week after I get my month's pay.” + </p> + <p> + “It is a very different thing living in Susa to living in Paris,” Hector + laughed. “I can assure you that I never spent more than half my pay; but + living was dearer down in Roussillon. Things have been in such a disturbed + state there for years that the country was well nigh a desert; and though + my two comrades and I messed together, the living cost twice as much as it + did at Susa. Shall I see any of you this evening at the palace?” + </p> + <p> + “I shall be there,” the colonel said, “and so will Home and Lesley. It is + always expected that three officers from each of the regiments stationed + in Paris, and five from the one that happens to be on guard for the + evening, should attend the royal receptions. It will be a specially + brilliant affair tonight, for the queen has held but few receptions of + late. It was only announced yesterday afternoon, after the news of the + battle arrived. Had it not been for that, the salons would not have been + opened for another month.” + </p> + <p> + “I am very glad that there will be somebody there I shall know.” + </p> + <p> + “Don't flatter yourself that you are going to consort with us,” the + colonel laughed. “You will have to be presented to at least a score of + court dames. However, fortunately, they will not expect the usual amount + of compliments. They will be really wanting to hear of the battle, and + most of them will be interested in some special friend with the army, and + will want to inquire about him.” + </p> + <p> + “It will not be so bad, then,” Hector said. “If I only have to talk of + military matters I shall not mind, but it will be painful indeed if I have + to give news of the death of anyone dear to the lady I am speaking to.” + </p> + <p> + “I don't think that you need fear very much about that. Enghien is pretty + sure to have sent a list containing the names of any court gallants that + have fallen, and their relatives will at once have been notified of it, + and will not be present at the court. As to the others, who have merely + lost lovers, they will not break their hearts over it. It is the fashion + to change them so rapidly that probably not a few of the ladies will have + consoled themselves for their absence already. However, to begin with, I + daresay I shall be able to act as your mentor and guide, and point out to + you who is who, so that you can avoid falling into serious errors. You + see, there are half a dozen parties at court already. There are Mazarin's + friends, who, by the way, are not numerous; there are the Duke of + Beaufort's clique; there is Conde's party. + </p> + <p> + “Madame Chevreuse's party consists largely of herself. She is a power, but + at present no one can say with whom she will ally herself. Hitherto she + has been simply anti-Richelieu, and was his most troublesome and bitter + enemy; and I should say that not improbably she will at once begin to + conspire against Mazarin as she did against him. She has been the queen's + greatest ally; but then the queen was always a bitter enemy of Richelieu, + whereas at present it is supposed that she is strongly in favour of + Mazarin. In a few months the situation will clear itself, parties will + become defined. No doubt Enghien's victory will add to the power and + importance of Conde, who is already dangerously strong; then matters will + become interesting. At present the situation is somewhat chaotic, and + politics will not be openly and generally discussed, simply because no one + knows what anyone else's opinion may be.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, then, till the evening I will say goodbye, colonel. I am going to + have a chat with Sergeant MacIntosh, and shall then return to Conde's + hotel. I suppose I shall be expected to take my midday meal there.” + </p> + <p> + “It would be as well to do so certainly, even though it is like enough + that he himself will not be there. He is the prince of schemers, and + doubtless at present his thoughts are concentrated on the manner in which + he and Enghien can best gain advantages from the victory.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0010" id="link2HCH0010"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER X: AN ESTATE AND TITLE + </h2> + <p> + On entering the Scottish Soldier, Hector found that, as he hoped, the + cabaret was deserted, for it was the hour at which the regiment was + assembled for drill. It would have been a little embarrassing for him as a + colonel to come upon a number of private soldiers at the cabaret. + Separately he might have chatted with each, but a general greeting when a + number of them were there together would have been embarrassing. + </p> + <p> + The old sergeant as he entered ran up to him. “Well done, my lad, well + done! 'Tis a delight to me indeed to know that you have so grandly made + your way, and already won the rank of colonel.” + </p> + <p> + “Why, how did you know, MacIntosh?” + </p> + <p> + “The guard at the colonel's was changed just after you went into his + quarters, and you may be sure that they lost no time in spreading the news + that you had returned, and returned a colonel. In ten minutes this place + was as full as it would hold, and there was such a crowd outside the door + that a sergeant-de-ville came in to inquire what was the matter, thinking, + perhaps, that the regiment was in mutiny. I was right glad when I heard + the trumpet sound the assembly a few minutes ago, and they had to rush off + in a hurry, for I felt that it would be awkward for you were you to come + in when they were all so excited.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, I was glad myself when I found that they were gone. I regard every + soldier in the regiment as my friend, and would shake hands with them now + as heartily as I did when I went away near four years back, but I myself + felt that it would be somewhat embarrassing were I greeted by them wine + cup in hand. Here are twenty pistoles; say that I left them here for them + to drink my health on my promotion, but that I shall be so busy during the + day or two that I remain in Paris that I shall not be able to pay another + visit here. Now let us have a quiet talk together, and give me all the + news of the regiment.” + </p> + <p> + “Perhaps, colonel—” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, you need not call me colonel, MacIntosh, when you and I are together + alone. I am what I was—Hector Campbell, the lad to whom you showed + so much kindness for his father's sake. Yes, I will tell you one or two of + my adventures, and you shall come round to me tomorrow morning at seven + o'clock at the Hotel Conde, and we will stroll out together, and sit down + in the gardens of the Palais Cardinal, and you shall then tell me about + the regiment, who have gone, and what changes there are.” + </p> + <p> + “That will be best,” the sergeant said. “We did hear something of how you + were made captain. Turenne was good enough to tell the colonel, and so + some of it came down to us, but of course it was very little. The men + would like to hear all about it and about this battle at Rocroi, at which, + of course, you must have in some way distinguished yourself to be + appointed colonel at your age.” + </p> + <p> + Hector gave him a full account of the battle. “The special thing for which + I was promoted,” he said, at the finish, “was that, the night before, it + struck me that there might be an ambush set in the copses in the hollow + between the two armies. So far as I could see, no efforts whatever had + been made either to occupy the woods or to find out if the enemy had done + so; so I went with my servant, who is a capital fellow, and we made our + way into them, and discovered a regiment of musketeers hidden there. Of + course I reported the fact to General Gassion, and he told the prince. So, + before attacking the enemy's lines, the prince charged right along the + wood and destroyed the musketeers there. If he had not done so, they would + have taken him in rear when he was hotly engaged with the Spaniards, and + might have changed the fate of the battle.” + </p> + <p> + “Certainly they might,” the sergeant said. “A volley from a thousand + muskets from the rear would well shake even the best cavalry. It was a + happy thought of yours indeed.” + </p> + <p> + “Any merit there is in it was due to Turenne, who had carefully instructed + me in everything that could be of importance when two hostile armies faced + each other; and as he would never have dreamt of retiring to rest before + having every place where an enemy could conceal himself carefully + searched, it seemed to me a matter of course that it should be done. + However, General Gassion and the prince were both good enough to consider + that the service was a vital one, and as soon as the battle was over the + prince gave me my promotion.” + </p> + <p> + “And it was well earned, lad, well earned. And now about that affair at + Turin.” + </p> + <p> + “It could not have been better done, Hector,” the old soldier said in high + delight when the story was told. “I used to think that you spent more time + than was necessary in reading over accounts of battles and sieges, but I + see that the time was well spent. You may be sure that I will be with you + at seven tomorrow morning,” he added as Hector rose to leave, “though I + expect I shall have a heavy night of it here, for there will scarcely be a + man in the regiment who won't come round and stay to hear the news. I + warrant that by this evening there will not be a sou remaining out of the + money you have left for them.” + </p> + <p> + Hector arrived at the hotel just in time for the midday meal, and was + pleased to find that Conde himself was not present. He and his two + companions were placed at different points at the great table, so that as + many as possible could hear the story of the battle. After the meal was + over, Hector was glad to leave the salon, and in company with a gentleman + of the household, who had volunteered to be his guide, spent the afternoon + in visiting the principal sights of Paris, of which he had seen but little + when a boy in barracks. The hotels of the nobles, each a fortress rather + than a private building, interested him greatly, as also the streets in + which the principal traders lived; but he was unfavourably impressed with + the appearance of the population in all other parts, and could well + understand what his guide told him, that it was dangerous in the extreme + for a gentleman unattended to pass through these quarters. + </p> + <p> + At six o'clock he sat down to the evening meal at Conde's, after which, + having attired himself in his new suit, he repaired with de Penthiere and + de Caussac to the Louvre. It was eight o'clock when they entered, the + reception rooms were already full, and the brilliancy of the attire, both + of the courtiers and ladies, seen by the light of great chandeliers, was + impressive in the extreme to one who had never seen any gathering of the + kind before. There was a little pause in the buzz of conversation as the + three officers entered, and Hector's two companions were at once + surrounded by friends, while he himself was joined by Colonel Maclvor and + the other two officers. + </p> + <p> + “You are the heroes of the evening, Campbell,” the former said with a + laugh. “A dozen ladies have already asked me to present you to them.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, please don't do so just now, colonel; let me look round first.” + </p> + <p> + “That is but fair, Campbell. First, though, I will tell you a piece of + news that I have just heard. The queen sent off a messenger two days ago + to Turenne, and it is believed that he is to have the command of the army + on the Rhine.” + </p> + <p> + “That is good news indeed,” Hector exclaimed. “It is high time that he + should be given a command, instead of being always put under men less + capable than himself. Still, it is unexpected at the present moment.” + </p> + <p> + “I know that the queen always had the greatest liking for Turenne,” the + colonel said, “but of course until now she has had no power. Moreover, I + fancy that the appointment is to some extent dictated by policy. Conde is + already dangerously powerful; Enghien's victory will, of course, largely + add to his influence. No doubt some large estates will be given to the + latter, such a service cannot be ungenerously rewarded, but it will be + thought unadvisable to give him at present further opportunities. Conde is + old, and his son, who is certainly ambitious and hotheaded now, will be + even more powerful than his father has been. Were he to win more + victories, and to become a popular idol, his power might well overshadow + that of the throne. Therefore it is likely enough that my news is true. + Turenne has proved that military duty is with him supreme, for he held + aloof from all the troubles in which his brother the duke has involved + himself, and he may act as a counterpoise to Enghien. I fancy that the + latter's plan, which, as you have told me, would lead to a conquest of + Flanders, will not be adopted. It would not have been so in Richelieu's + time. The red cardinal would not have lost a moment in ordering him to + march into Flanders, thinking only of the good of France, and disregarding + the fact that continued successes might lead to his own power being + shaken.” + </p> + <p> + “And you do not think that Mazarin will act in the same way?” + </p> + <p> + “I think not. Of course at present not much is known about him. He affects + the greatest humility, is almost obsequious to the great nobles, and even + professes to be anxious to return to Italy as soon as his services here + can be dispensed with. But I expect that he will in time occupy as great a + position as that of Richelieu, but that he will hold it by craft rather + than strength is, from the look of the man, likely enough. For myself I + should say that it is infinitely better for France that an ecclesiastic + like Richelieu or Mazarin should be at the head of affairs, than that the + great nobles should all struggle and intrigue for power, ready as they + have shown themselves over and over again to plunge France into civil war + for the attainment of their aims. Ah, here comes the queen!” + </p> + <p> + The door at the end of the salon opened and Anne entered. By her side + walked the young king, a little behind were Orleans and Conde, Beaufort + and Bouillon, while, following them, with an air that was almost humble, + came Mazarin. The queen and the young king were dressed in violet, the + mourning colour of the court, and the ladies present all wore shades of + that colour relieved by white. All present formed themselves into two + lines, through which the queen walked. She acknowledged the deep + reverences, and the little king bowed repeatedly. Anne of Austria was one + of the most beautiful women of her time, and although the charm of youth + had disappeared, her stateliness of bearing made up for this loss, and + Hector thought that he had never seen so lovely a woman. + </p> + <p> + As soon as they had passed into an inner apartment known as the audience + chamber the lines broke up, and a buzz of conversation and light laughter + followed the silence that had reigned as the procession passed. The court, + indeed, felt a general feeling of relief at the death of Louis. Although + well meaning and desirous of doing good, the life of the monarch had not + been a happy one. His health had never been good, and although he had the + wisdom to see that in supporting Richelieu, and in every way adding to his + authority, he was acting for the good of France, the knowledge that he + himself was little more than a cipher galled and irritated him. His + disposition was a jealous one, and as the great minister knew that Anne of + Austria was ever his opponent politically, he worked upon this feeling, + and embittered the lives of both the king and queen, and the latter was + the constant victim of the king's jealousy and caprices. + </p> + <p> + These things, combined with the ascetic temperament of the king, had + rendered the court of France a dismal one, and the royal salons formed a + strong contrast to the brilliancy of those of Richelieu. Now the king was + gone, and there was a general feeling of relief among the nobles and + ladies of the court. It might be that stormy times were ahead, and indeed + it was no secret that Conde, Beaufort, and many other nobles were already + united against Mazarin. They called themselves “The Importants,” a term + well suited to their own idea of their power, and of the position they + aspired to as the natural leaders of France. + </p> + <p> + “Madame de Chevreuse wishes you to be presented to her,” Colonel Maclvor + said to Hector. “Everyone knows her reputation; she is the cleverest woman + in France, and one of the most intriguing. She is the queen's greatest + friend, and has been her mainstay in her struggle with Richelieu. Of one + thing we may be sure, that she will not tamely see Mazarin step into his + place, and she has, it is whispered, already thrown herself into the arms + of 'The Importants,' and if anyone can persuade the queen to throw over + the cardinal it is she.” + </p> + <p> + With a slight shrug of his shoulders Hector followed the colonel to a + group of three or four ladies seated upon some fauteuils. + </p> + <p> + The colonel stopped before one of these, and bowing deeply said, “Duchess, + I have the honour to present to you my compatriot, Colonel Campbell, who + arrived here this morning with despatches from the Duc d'Enghien.” + </p> + <p> + Madame Chevreuse, like the queen, was still a beautiful woman. She was + petite, and possessed a face whose fascination few could withstand. She + was the most restless of intriguers, and was never so happy as when + engaged in conspiracies which might cost her her estates and liberty. + </p> + <p> + “Why, Monsieur Campbell,” she said with a smile, “I had looked to see a + fierce warrior, and, lo and behold I find one who, by his appearance, will + be far more in his element at court than in the field.” + </p> + <p> + “Then appearances must greatly belie me, madame,” Hector said; “for while + I may say that I am at home in a military camp, I feel sorely ill at ease + here, and I feel I would rather face an enemy's battery than so many + beautiful faces.” + </p> + <p> + “That is not bad for a beginner,” the lady said with a smile, “but + methinks you will soon get over that fear, for there is nothing very + dangerous in any of us. The Duchesse de Longueville,” and she motioned to + the lady next to her, “is as desirous as myself that you should be + presented to her, and that she should hear from your lips somewhat more of + the doings of her brother than she has yet learned.” + </p> + <p> + Hector again bowed deeply. The sister of Enghien was as ambitious for her + brother's sake as he was for his own self, and she was his potent ally in + the troubles of the times. + </p> + <p> + “Enghien was wounded,” she said. “Monsieur la Moussaie left the field + directly the battle was won, and could tell me little about my brother's + injuries.” + </p> + <p> + “He received three wounds, duchess, but happily none of them were severe, + and he was on horseback on the following morning. It seemed miraculous to + us all that he should so escape, for he rode ever ahead of us in the + charges against the Spanish square.” + </p> + <p> + “You were acting as one of his aides-de-camp? I do not remember having + seen your face before.” + </p> + <p> + “No, madame. I have been for the past four years on the staff of the + Viscount de Turenne, and have not left the army during that time. The + general had the goodness, seeing that there was little doing in the south, + to send me to learn what I could from the operations of the duke against + the Spanish. He sent me a letter of recommendation to your brother, who + kindly appointed me to the same position under him that I had occupied + under Turenne.” + </p> + <p> + “Did you find the ladies of Italy very lovely?” Madame de Chevreuse asked + suddenly. + </p> + <p> + “In truth, madame, I had but small opportunities of judging, seeing that, + unless when sent with some message from the general to the Duchess of + Savoy, I do not think that I exchanged a single word with a woman during + the whole of my stay there.” + </p> + <p> + Madame de Chevreuse, and the Duchesse de Longueville, and all the ladies + sitting round, smiled. + </p> + <p> + “Then you have very much to learn, Colonel Campbell,” Madame de Chevreuse + said. “You will find plenty of ladies in the court here who will not + object to give you lessons.” + </p> + <p> + “I trust, madame,” Hector said bluntly, “that there will be little + opportunity for me to take lessons as to the manners of the court, for I + hope that my stay here will be short indeed.” + </p> + <p> + “That is a most ungallant speech,” the younger duchess said, laughing, + “and shows indeed the truth of what you have said as to your ignorance of + women. Do you not know, sir; that it is an unwritten law at court that + every gentleman here must be at the feet of one fair lady?” + </p> + <p> + “I suppose that, had I been brought up at court,” Hector said, “I should + not be more insensible than others; but when one passes three-quarters of + one's time on horseback, and that under a commander like Turenne, who sets + us all an example in the matter of endurance and watchfulness, one has + small leisure indeed for aught else, and indeed is glad enough to seek + one's bed as soon as the day's work is done.” + </p> + <p> + “If you are another Turenne,” Madame de Chevreuse laughed, “I give you up. + He is the most insensible of men. His head contains but one idea, and that + is duty; and as to us poor creatures, he is as insensible as was St. + Anthony.” + </p> + <p> + At this moment the door that separated the salon from that of the queen + opened, and the names of Monsieur de Penthiere and Monsieur de Caussac + were called. The two officers at once passed into the inner room. + </p> + <p> + “You are either left out in the cold, monsieur le colonel, or you will + have the honour of a separate audience,” Madame de Chevreuse said. + </p> + <p> + “As I have been rewarded far above my merits for any service that I have + rendered,” Hector said quietly, “it is probable that the queen has nothing + to say to me. She was pleased to receive me very graciously this morning, + and gave me her hand to kiss, and I assuredly have no right to expect any + further favours.” + </p> + <p> + In a few minutes the two officers came out, both looking radiant, the + queen having graciously presented them with the titles to two estates. A + minute later Hector's name was called, and he went off, with a deep bow to + the ladies and a murmured apology for leaving them. + </p> + <p> + “A loyal spirit, surely,” Madame de Chevreuse said; “bizarre, of course, + and at present simple as a child. Moreover, I should say that the + atmosphere of the court will not infect him as it has the others. It is + refreshing to meet with one who, although he must have distinguished + himself vastly, is still modest and simple, without a shadow of conceit or + of self consciousness. He spoke as frankly to us as if we were two waiting + maids at a cabaret. However, men of that stamp may always be made useful, + and I would rather have the devotion of a young officer like that, who is, + I should say, likely to rise to high rank, than that of half a dozen men + ready to lay their hearts at the feet of the first comer, and who are as + ready to change mistresses as sides.” + </p> + <p> + By this time the door had closed behind Hector. The queen was sitting on a + sofa, with the little king by her side. Mazarin stood a pace behind her. + Conde and Orleans had a short time before gone out, and had mingled with + the crowd in the antechamber, and the courtiers present, who were all + members of her council, stood some distance in the rear. + </p> + <p> + “We have had time, Colonel Campbell, to read our despatches, and can now + estimate the service that you rendered the Duc d'Enghien and our army. + General Gassion, or I should say Marshal Gassion, for he has today been + raised to that rank, speaks of the value of that service in terms of the + highest eulogy, and indeed says frankly, that had it not been for your + voluntary expedition and the discovery by you of the Spanish ambuscade, it + is probable that we should have suffered a defeat instead of a victory. + The duke speaks no less strongly in your favour. I can remember that when + the Viscount Turenne was here three years ago, he told us how a young + Scottish officer on his staff had saved Turin to us by a most daring + enterprise, by which he informed the garrison of the citadel that help + would soon reach them, and mentioned that for that service he had + appointed Monsieur Campbell a captain. You are Scottish by birth, are you + not?” + </p> + <p> + “I am, your majesty, by birth and descent. My father was a captain in the + Scottish regiment, and fell at the siege of La Rochelle. I was, I may say, + adopted by the regiment, and had the good fortune to be trained in arms + from a child, and the still greater fortune to attract the attention of + the Viscount de Turenne, who, young as I was, obtained a commission for me + and appointed me to his staff.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, young sir, the viscount rewarded you for the great service that you + rendered him at Turin; the Duc d'Enghien has similarly rewarded you for + your service to him at Rocroi; but it is ours to reward you for your + services to France; and Cardinal Mazarin will, in my name, hand you + tomorrow the estate of de la Villar, in Poitou, which carries with it the + title of Baron de la Villar. A soldier who has rendered such service to us + cannot be allowed to remain a soldier dependent on his pay, and I am sure + that should need arise you will do me as good service as you have rendered + to Turenne and Enghien.” + </p> + <p> + “Your majesty is too good and gracious,” Hector stammered, overcome by + this sudden and unexpected reward; “but be assured, madame”—and he + recovered himself, and his voice was steady—“should there be need, I + will willingly lay down my life in your majesty's service, and in that of + the king, your son.” + </p> + <p> + “Which means also,” the queen said gently, “in that of my minister, who + may need faithful friends even more than we do, and under whose advice we + have now acted.” + </p> + <p> + “Assuredly, madame. Cardinal Mazarin is your minister, and as long as he + possesses your confidence he represents France in my eyes, and I will + render as faithful service to him as to yourself.” + </p> + <p> + “Well spoken, baron,” the queen said graciously. “Henceforth I shall count + you as among my friends.” She held out her hand for him to kiss, as did + the little king, and after a deep bow to them and to the cardinal, Hector + left the audience chamber still almost bewildered by the honours bestowed + upon him. + </p> + <p> + Hector made his way through the crowd to the side of Colonel Maclvor, the + general verdict of those who watched him being that he had not met with + the same good fortune as those who preceded him, but that for some reason + or other he had been reprimanded. + </p> + <p> + “Well, lad,” the colonel said, “what fortune have you met with? Judging by + your face, either the queen or the cardinal have failed to recognize the + service that you have rendered.” + </p> + <p> + “Upon the contrary, colonel, they have so heaped favours upon me that at + present I can scarcely realize my good fortune, and feel almost humiliated + that so much should have been given for what was a mere matter of duty and + attended by no great peril.” + </p> + <p> + “What have they done, then, Campbell?” + </p> + <p> + “Well, colonel, absurd as it seems even to myself, the queen has + graciously bestowed upon me the estate of la Villar, by which gift she + says I become as its owner the Baron de la Villar.” + </p> + <p> + “That is fortunate indeed, my dear Campbell,” the colonel said, heartily + shaking him by the hand. “It shows that the duke and Gassion were of the + same opinion that we expressed, namely, that your discovery of that ambush + was the chief factor in bringing about the victory of Rocroi.” + </p> + <p> + “But it was such a simple thing,” Hector said. “It was merely a + reconnaissance, such as I have made scores of times in Italy.” + </p> + <p> + “No doubt, Campbell; but you see the other reconnaissances did not lead to + any results, while this did. My dear lad, it is by results that men are + judged. That you, a young officer on Enghien's staff, should unbidden, + and, as you say, as a matter of duty, have undertaken such a business, + shows how thoroughly you have profited by your teaching under Turenne; and + as such you deserve what you have gained, though I do not say that you + would have obtained your desserts had not your reconnaissance saved + Enghien from defeat. Now I will take you to Madame de Chevreuse again. She + beckoned to me after you entered the audience chamber, and told me to + bring you up again when you came out, as she and the Duchesse de + Longueville had taken a great fancy to you. Now, my dear boy, your + position is changed. You have become a French noble, and, however + unwilling, may find yourself mixed up on one side or the other with the + doings of your court. Both these ladies have power, and it is well to keep + in with them, for either of them might prove a valuable friend and + protector, and the first rule here is make as many friends as possible, + for no one can say when you may require them.” + </p> + <p> + Hector again followed the colonel to the group of ladies. + </p> + <p> + “Madame,” Maclvor said, “I have the honour to present you—” + </p> + <p> + “Why, have you not presented him to us already?” Madame de Chevreuse said + with a laugh. “Your memory must be singularly short, colonel.” + </p> + <p> + “My memory is not short, madame, but it is a somewhat different personage + that I have now to present to you. Madame, I have the honour to present + Colonel Campbell, Baron de la Villar.” + </p> + <p> + Both ladies uttered an exclamation of surprise. + </p> + <p> + “Why, what has he done, colonel?” the duchess exclaimed. “It must have + been some remarkable action, surely, for him to be made colonel by my + brother and Baron de la Villar by the queen.” + </p> + <p> + “In the opinion of the Duc d'Enghien and General Gassion, duchess, he + performed a service that to a large extent brought about the victory of + Rocroi. My young friend is at present not beyond the age of modesty, and + therefore if you will allow me I will state the circumstances. Under + General de Turenne he was in the habit of constantly visiting the posts at + night with the viscount or alone, and endeavouring to discover the + position and intentions of the enemy. The night before the battle he + started voluntarily to perform the same duties, and, accompanied only by + his servant, he crept into a wood that lay between the two armies and + there discovered a thousand musketeers who were lying in ambush. He + reported the discovery to General Gassion, who on his part informed the + duke of this most important intelligence, for it was evident that, had the + ambuscade been unsuspected, they would have taken the cavalry in the rear + at the critical moment of the battle, and would have opened so heavy a + fire that even the bravest of cavalry, thus surprised and shot down by an + unsuspected foe in their rear, might have fallen into confusion. Being + forewarned, the duke directed his first charge upon the wood, took the + musketeers by surprise, and annihilated them, before charging and routing + the enemy's horse. Thus you see, ladies, that we have another illustration + of the mouse saving the lion, and the lion was generous and noble minded + enough to give the mouse full credit for the service that he had rendered + him.” + </p> + <p> + “Then we have good reason to be grateful to you, monsieur le baron,” + Madame Chevreuse said, laying aside the bantering tone in which she had + before addressed the young Scot, “and her majesty has done well to reward + your loyalty, for the estate is a fine one, and has remained without a + master since Richelieu brought its last owner to the block for having, as + he affirmed, conspired against the king—that is to say, against + himself. You have begun well indeed, sir. Henceforth the Duchesse de + Longueville and myself may be counted upon as your friends. And now,” she + said, changing the subject abruptly, “as you say that you are anxious to + be off, with whom will you serve, with Turenne or with Enghien? For I hear + that Turenne has been sent for to take the command of the army of the + Rhine.” + </p> + <p> + “I belong to Viscount Turenne,” Hector said. “It is to him that I owe + everything. He picked me up a rough boy, with no recommendation save that + my father died fighting for France, and that I was more addicted to + military study than most lads of my age, and that, as he was good enough + to say, I reminded him of his own boyhood. It was owing to his kindness + and his tuition that I have now made my way, and it was still further to + increase my military knowledge that he sent me for a time to serve under + the Duc d'Enghien. Therefore, much as I admire the glory that the duke has + gained, and recognize his extraordinary genius, I feel that duty and + gratitude alike bind me to my great master.” + </p> + <p> + “Quite right,” the Duchesse de Longueville said warmly. “I am sure that my + brother will approve of your decision. He admires Turenne as much as you + do, and regards him as his master in military science, and it may be + perhaps that one of these days you will take part in a battle in which my + brother and Turenne will both have command.” + </p> + <p> + “If it be so, madame,” Hector said, “there can be little doubt of victory, + for with the two greatest military geniuses France has produced during the + last hundred years it would be hard indeed if victory did not attend their + united banners.” + </p> + <p> + The news of the honour that had been bestowed upon this young colonel + circulated rapidly through the salon, and many gentlemen came up and + begged Colonel Maclvor to introduce him to them. One who had received so + marked a proof of the queen's favour, and who had won the praise and + goodwill of both Turenne and Enghien, might well become in time a man of + mark, and so many compliments were showered upon Hector that he was glad + indeed when the queen again passed through the room on her way to her + apartments and he was at liberty to retire. He walked slowly back to + Conde's palace, went up to his room, changed his court suit for that which + he had worn during the day, and then went out again, feeling that it would + be hopeless to attempt to sleep. He paced backwards and forwards for some + hours on the quay, thinking of the changes that three days had brought + about. + </p> + <p> + He could scarcely realize even now, that he who a week ago was but a + captain with nought but his pay, was now not only a colonel but a noble of + France, with an estate of whose value he was ignorant, but as it carried + with it a patent of nobility it was evident that it must be one of + dimensions sufficient to support the title. The change excited no feeling + of exultation. His whole thoughts so far had been directed solely to his + career as a soldier. He had hoped that some day he might win a colonelcy; + more than that he had never thought of. High commands in France were + matters of birth, interest, and connection. Gassion, who had just earned + his marshal's baton, was the sole exception to the rule. Hitherto + generals, and still more marshals, had always been men belonging to the + first families of France. It had been a matter of course that when an army + went to the field it was under the command of a prince of the blood, and + the utmost an outsider could look for was the command of a regiment. The + promotion had delighted him, not for the sake of the pay or position, but + because, if he obtained the command of one of the regiments that were + rapidly being formed to meet the dangers that threatened France, he would + have opportunities of doing good service and of earning the esteem of such + men as Turenne. His civil dignity, however, oppressed rather than + gratified him. He would have heavy responsibilities. When not on active + service he would be expected to show himself at court, and would have a + difficulty in holding himself aloof from its intrigues and conspiracies. + His thoughts turned to Scotland. He had relations there, it was true, both + on his father's and mother's side, but they were strangers to him. + Moreover, Scotland at present was torn by a civil and religious war. In + England a civil war was raging, and the extreme party in Scotland, having + got the upper hand, had allied themselves with the English + parliamentarians, and the cause of the king was well nigh lost. + </p> + <p> + The Scottish officers and men in the French service had for the most part + left their homes owing to the bitter religious differences of the times, + and, under the easier conditions of the life in France, had come to look + with disgust at the narrow bigotry of the Scottish sects, a feeling + heightened perhaps by the deep resentment that still prevailed in France + at the insolence with which Knox and the Scottish reformers had treated + their princess, Queen Mary. Among the French officers the feeling was + wholly in favour of the royal cause in England. The queen was French, and + had France herself not been engaged in warfare numbers of the young nobles + would have gone over and drawn their swords in her cause, and Hector would + gladly have done the same. + </p> + <p> + For the time, at any rate, he had no idea whatever of returning to + Scotland. If better times came he had often thought that, if successful in + winning a competency, he would return to his native land, for his close + connection with the Scottish regiment kept alive in him his feeling of + nationality, and he always regarded himself as a stranger in France. The + estates and title now bestowed upon him seemed to put this hope further + away than ever, and to fix him permanently in France, a contingency more + disagreeable to him the more he saw how completely France was dominated by + faction, and how unstable were the conditions of life there. His musings, + therefore, as he walked up and down for hours, were very different from + those which most young men would have felt at so great and sudden a change + in their fortunes. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0011" id="link2HCH0011"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XI: THE CASTLE OF LA VILLAR + </h2> + <p> + The next morning he called at eleven o'clock, at which hour the cardinal's + secretary had informed him that Mazarin would expect him. He went to the + abode of the minister. Mazarin received him with marked courtesy. + </p> + <p> + “Here are the deeds appointing to you the estate of la Villar and your + patent of nobility,” he said, pointing to a box upon his table. “You have + been singularly fortunate, sir, and from all inquiries that I have made + from officers who have served with Monsieur de Turenne, and, I may say, + from Colonel Maclvor, I hear nothing but good of you, as a soldier devoted + to duty, as a young man free from the vices and dissipations too common + among those of your age, and as possessing intelligence as well as + courage. Such men, sir, even royalty does well to attach to itself, and + for them a splendid career is open. I, high as is the office in which + Providence has placed me, may well envy you. You fight against the enemies + of France; I am surrounded by enemies open and secret, and the war is no + less earnest than that which Turenne and Enghien are waging. + </p> + <p> + “The great nobles of France are jealous that I, a foreigner, should have + the ear of the queen, and be first minister of the country. Gladly indeed + would I resign my position and return to my bishopric in Italy, were it + not that I promised the great man to whose place I have so unworthily + succeeded, that I would do my best for the country on whose behalf he + spent every hour of his life, and that I would, unless driven from it by + force, hold the seals of office until the young king should be old enough + to rule France unaided. You, baron, are like myself a foreigner, and ready + to risk your life in the service of France, and you will understand how I + am situated and how I feel. You, happily for yourself, are not so highly + placed as to excite enmity, although doubtless not a few of those who + flocked round you yesterday evening to congratulate you on your good + fortune felt a sensation of envy that a young soldier of fortune should be + so honoured. + </p> + <p> + “In my case envy is accompanied by the deepest animosity. The great nobles + find me an obstacle in the way of their grasping power, and they would + hesitate at nothing to rid themselves of me. Were it not for the support + of the queen, my position would be untenable even for an hour. Without me + the queen herself would speedily become as much a cipher as she was so + long as the weak king reigned. We have need, both of us, of men of heart + and devotion such as I take you to be. I ask for no engagements, sir, but + I felt that there was a genuine ring in your voice yesterday evening when + you promised faithful service to her majesty, and I feel that if such + service is needed you will be ready to render it.” + </p> + <p> + “I shall indeed, your eminence. I cannot conceive that any circumstances + can occur that would render such aid as I could offer of service to you, + but be assured that should such an occasion arise, the queen may count + upon me to render it to the extent of my life; and when I say the queen I, + of course, include your eminence as her trusted adviser and supporter.” + </p> + <p> + “Well spoken, sir. I believe your words, and it may be that the occasion + is not so far distant as you may imagine. Here is the box, sir. By the + way, it will, I am sure, be a pleasure for you to know that her majesty + has the intention of creating the Viscount de Turenne field marshal as + soon as he arrives in Paris.” + </p> + <p> + “It is indeed, monseigneur; never did a soldier better earn such honour. + There, indeed sir, is a true and noble heart, loyal to his duty beyond all + things, adored by his soldiers, ready to serve under officers altogether + inferior to himself, incapable of jealousy, and devoted to his sovereign + and his country.” + </p> + <p> + “You do not speak too warmly of him,” the cardinal said; “and among all + the difficulties of the situation there seems to be but one fixed point, + and that point is that upon Monsieur de Turenne we can at least + confidently rely.” + </p> + <p> + Hector felt that his audience was at an end, and taking the box from the + table, and again thanking the cardinal for the honour bestowed upon him, + he retired. The cardinal's chamberlain met him at the door. “Will you step + in here, monsieur le baron?” he said, and led the way into a small + apartment. “As a stranger to the court, monsieur, you are probably unaware + of the value of the gift that has been granted to you, or of its duties + and obligations.” + </p> + <p> + “Altogether, sir; beyond the fact that it is in Poitou, which her majesty + mentioned yesterday, I know absolutely nothing about it.” + </p> + <p> + “Without being an estate of the first class,” the chamberlain said, “it is + one which is of importance in its province. The revenue is punctually paid + and is amply sufficient to enable its lord to make a good figure at court, + and to rank among the notables in the province. It is a fief held directly + from the crown; its owner is bound to furnish feudal service of + twenty-five mounted men and twenty-five arquebusiers, or, should he prefer + it, fifty horsemen in all. Some of its owners have in times of peril + raised a force of thrice that strength. So you will see that the Lord of + la Villar is not an unimportant personage. The estate is held at present + by a royal intendant. You will find in that box an order for him to place + you in possession of the castle and estate whensoever you may present + yourself, and as at the present moment your services can be spared from + the army, it might be as well to visit it at once, if only for a few days. + Possibly the cardinal did not inform you that he has ordered that the + regiment that has been just recruited shall bear the name of the regiment + of Poitou, and has appointed you to its command.” + </p> + <p> + This news gave much greater pleasure to Hector than did the gift of the + fief, or the rank that accompanied it. + </p> + <p> + “Will you please give my earnest thanks to his excellency,” he said, “and + assure him that he can depend upon my devotion.” + </p> + <p> + When Hector returned to the Hotel Conde he found that the soldiers who had + started with him from Rocroi had all arrived, bringing with them the + twelve horses that had been left on the road; four of these were to be + handed over to each of the officers. The division was just being made as + he entered the courtyard, each officer taking the four he had ridden by + the way. + </p> + <p> + Paolo at once came up to him. “What are we to do with these horses, + master?” he asked, with an air of bewilderment. + </p> + <p> + “We have now seven of them, counting mine, the one I led, and that you + rode when you set out.” + </p> + <p> + “I must see where I can bestow them for the present until we think the + matter over;” and going up to one of Conde's officers, he asked him if he + could recommend a place where he might leave safely four horses for a + time. + </p> + <p> + “The auberge of the Pome d'Or is but a street from here, monsieur; it has + good stables, and the host is an honest man, which is not often the case + with men of his class. When the stables here are full the prince often + engages extra stalls there for the use of his guests. I will send four men + with the horses at once, if such is your pleasure.” + </p> + <p> + “You will greatly oblige me by doing so,” Hector replied. Having seen the + horses safely and comfortably lodged at the inn, Hector returned to the + hotel with Paolo. + </p> + <p> + “You are not tired, I hope, Paolo?” he asked as they walked back. + </p> + <p> + “No, master; we have taken three days to do what you did in one, and have + fatigued neither ourselves nor our beasts.” + </p> + <p> + “That is well, for I am going to start on a journey this afternoon, that + is to say, if I can manage to make my arrangements.” + </p> + <p> + “May I ask where you are going, master?” + </p> + <p> + “You will be surprised to hear that I am going to visit my estates in + Poitou.” + </p> + <p> + Paolo looked sharply up to see whether Hector was joking. Seeing that he + looked serious, he said hesitatingly, “But I did not know, master, that + you had estates in Poitou. I never heard you speak of them.” + </p> + <p> + “Because I had them not, Paolo. That box that you are carrying holds the + titles. The fief was granted to me last night by the queen herself, the + Duc d'Enghien and General Gassion having been good enough to make a good + deal more of that night adventure of ours than it deserved. The estates + carry a title with them, and I am now the Baron de la Villar.” + </p> + <p> + Paolo gave an exclamation of delight. “Well, master, I am glad indeed; + but,” he went on in a changed tone, “now that you, monsieur, have become a + noble, you will no longer require the services of a lad from Savoy.” + </p> + <p> + “Indeed I shall, Paolo, as long as you choose to remain with me. Why, have + you not shared with me in the adventures, one of which made me a captain, + and the other a colonel and a noble? Of course I shall have other + servants, but you will always be my bodyservant and companion.” + </p> + <p> + “And are you going to leave the army, monsieur?” Paolo asked, after + pouring out his thanks. + </p> + <p> + “No, I shall still remain in the army. Turenne will be in Paris soon, and + will then go to the Rhine to take the command there, and I hope to go with + my regiment.” + </p> + <p> + “Then you have a regiment, master?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes; one of the newly formed regiments has been named the regiment of + Poitou, and I am to have the command. Of course, it may be sent either to + him or to Enghien, but I hope that it will be to Turenne; and I should + think so, because from what I hear there is scarcely any army left on the + Rhine, and therefore it is probable that the new regiments will all be + sent there, as Enghien's force is quite sufficient to cope with any enemy + he is likely to meet with in Flanders. Now, I am going down to the + barracks, and for the next two or three hours you can amuse yourself by + taking a look at Paris.” + </p> + <p> + It was not to the barracks that Hector made his way, but to The Scottish + Soldier. + </p> + <p> + “I did not expect to see you so soon again, colonel. Your man brought me + word that I was not to come this morning, as you would be engaged,” the + sergeant said when he entered. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, but our talk was only postponed, sergeant; now I want you to aid me + in a matter that I have on hand.” + </p> + <p> + “What sort of matter is it?” + </p> + <p> + “I want to find four good men to take into my service. The queen has + granted me an estate, as if a colonelcy was not an ample and more than + ample reward for discovering that ambuscade. It is the fief of la Villar + in Poitou, and the most absurd point of the thing is that with it is a + title, and I am now Colonel Campbell, Baron de la Villar.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, well,” the sergeant exclaimed; “you will be coming and telling me + next that you are going to marry a princess of the blood. Did one ever + hear of such things! However, Hector, lad, I congratulate you with all my + heart, and I am as glad as if it had been a bairn of my own that had had + your good fortune. Now, in what can I help you about the four men? What + sort of men do you want?” + </p> + <p> + “I want four good men and true, sergeant, men that I can rely upon. I + shall want them to ride with me in the field as orderlies, for I have been + appointed to the command of an infantry regiment. Of course, I should like + young and active men, but that they should be steady and accustomed to + arms is still more important.” + </p> + <p> + “I know but few men outside the regiment,” the sergeant said. “The laddies + like to have the place to themselves, and I don't encourage others about; + but if you can do with good men who have somewhat passed their prime, but + are still capable of service and handy with their arms, I know just the + men that will suit you. We had a little bit of trouble in the regiment a + week since; four of the men—Allan Macpherson, Jock Hunter, Donald + Nicholl, and Sandy Grahame—came in after tattoo, and all a bit fu'. + It was not here they got it, though; I know better than to supply men with + liquor when it is time for them to be off to the barracks. Captain Muir, + who is the only dour carl in the regiment, happened to be on duty, and he + spoke a good deal more hardly to them than to my mind there was any + occasion, seeing that they are good soldiers and not in the guardroom more + often than others. They answered him more freely, no doubt, than they + would have done had they not been in their cups. + </p> + <p> + “They were had up before the colonel the next morning. They had all served + their time, and having been greatly angered at their treatment, they at + once up and told the colonel that they would take their discharges. The + colonel would have pacified them, but Captain Muir stood out strongly, and + said that if such insolence as theirs was allowed to go unpunished it + would be a bad example indeed for the regiment; so the colonel paid them + up to the day and gave them their papers. It has caused a lot of feeling + in the regiment, as you may guess, and the men all groaned and booed when + Muir came on parade the next day, and it was as much as the colonel + himself—whom they all love as a father—could do to silence + them. It is said that he spoke very sharply to Muir afterwards, and that + it is likely the captain will get transferred to another regiment. + However, that is too late for the men who have left. Their comrades are + going to get up a subscription to send them back to Scotland, for you may + be sure the hotheaded fools have not a bawbee of their pay laid by.” + </p> + <p> + “I know them all, sergeant, and I should say they would be the very men to + suit me; they are all strong and hearty fellows, and might have been good + for another ten years campaigning if it had not been for this business. + Can you send for them?” + </p> + <p> + “They will all be here in half an hour for their meal,” the sergeant said. + “They are lodged upstairs, for you may be sure that they would come to me; + and even if I kept them for six months, I should not have lost much when I + reckon what they have spent here during their service. I have no doubt + they will jump at the offer; for they were mere lads when they came over—it + was your father who sent for them—and I know that they reckon they + will find none of the old folk when they return home. And now what are + your estates like, lad?” + </p> + <p> + “I know very little about them at present, beyond the fact that I am bound + by my feudal obligations to put fifty men in the field when called upon to + do so.” + </p> + <p> + “Then it must be a place of good size,” the sergeant said. “And you hold + it direct from the crown?” + </p> + <p> + Hector nodded. + </p> + <p> + “That is good. When you hold from one of the great lords, you never know + whom you may be called upon to fight against—it may be the king, it + may be his minister, it may be some other noble—while holding + direct, you have only the king's enemies to fight against.” + </p> + <p> + “Or rather, MacIntosh, the chief minister's enemies; for, after all, when + a king signs a proclamation, it is usually a minister's signature that + ought to be attached to it.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, well, Master Hector, it makes little difference to us Scots who it + is that we fight for, it is no quarrel of ours. We have taken service + under the King of France; but when there are two parties, and each claims + to be in favour of the king, we have simply to fight for whoever happens + to have the king's signature. If they both have it, then it is the general + who commands our division who gives us orders, and it matters nought to us + whom he takes his orders from.” + </p> + <p> + “At any rate, MacIntosh, it is not for soldiers to inquire too deeply into + these matters; if we did, we should have one half of the regiment firing + into the other.” + </p> + <p> + “So we should, lad, so we should; therefore we soldiers do wisely in + leaving the matter to our officers. If the colonel says 'Charge!' we + charge; if he says 'Dismount and take to your musketoons!' we do so, + without troubling our heads as to whether it is Germans or Spaniards or + Frenchmen whom we have to aim at. Ah, here come your four men!” + </p> + <p> + As the four troopers entered the cabaret and saw who was speaking to + MacIntosh they hesitated, and would have turned, but the sergeant called + out, “Attention! salute!” and they stood as motionless as statues till + Hector ordered them to stand easy. + </p> + <p> + “I have been talking about you men to Sergeant MacIntosh, who tells me + that you have taken your discharge and the reason for your so doing. I + think that you acted hastily; however, that is your affair. The matter + that concerns me is this:—I am appointed colonel of an infantry + regiment and I want four good men as orderlies. They will be mounted, and + I shall see that they draw rations when there are any rations to be had; + but they will be my troopers and not soldiers of the regiment. I want good + men, who can be relied upon in any emergency; they will ride behind me in + battle, act as scouts if necessary, and they will receive double the pay + of ordinary troopers. In peacetime, or when the regiment is in winter + quarters, I shall pass my time either in Paris or on my estate in Poitou, + and they will of course accompany me. I may tell you that I am now Baron + de la Villar, but I should wish to be always addressed as Colonel + Campbell. I know you all of old, and that your only failing is somewhat + too great a love for the wine flask; that must only be indulged in at + times when you are not only off duty, but when there is no possibility of + your services being required. Now, what do you think, men; will my service + suit you?” + </p> + <p> + “That it would, sir,” burst from them simultaneously. + </p> + <p> + “Of course, there will be some other advantages beyond that of pay. When + the time comes that you get beyond active service in the field, I shall be + able to provide you with easier posts at la Villar, and there you will + find a comfortable home in your old age, if you prefer to stay with me + rather than to return to Scotland.” + </p> + <p> + “No further word need be spoken, colonel,” Allan Macpherson said; “we are + your men, and shall be proud to follow you, were there no question of pay + at all, but just our rations and a home to look forward to when our arms + get weak and eyes dim.” + </p> + <p> + “Then, men, if so say you all, the service begins from the present time. + You have your armour and headpieces, your doublets and jackboots, so there + is not much to buy. I have horses ready for you. You have pistols.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, we have all pistols and swords, colonel, but the musketoons belonged + to the regiment.” + </p> + <p> + “There will be no occasion for you to carry them. Get for yourselves four + long cloaks well lined and serviceable—'tis best that they should be + all of a colour, dark blue or gray—and broad hats to match the + cloaks; have in each a small red feather. I would that you should make a + decent show, for we shall start in two hours for Poitou. Here are twenty + crowns. See that you have ammunition for your pistols. Be at the Hotel + Conde in two hours from the present time. Your dinner here is ready for + you, eat heartily, but do not drink too deeply in honour of your new + service. + </p> + <p> + “Now, MacIntosh, I have a word or two further to speak to you.” + </p> + <p> + They went into an inner room. + </p> + <p> + “Now, old friend, are you tired of this life of keeper of a cabaret? + because I shall want you down in Poitou. Your house was mine when I sorely + needed it, and mine shall be yours now. You are as yet but fifty-five, and + I take it that you can do a man's work still, for you no longer suffer + from that wound that disabled you ten years ago. Now, I shall require + someone to drill the fifty men who will form my contingent, if all vassals + of the king are called upon to take the field. Of course they will not + always be under arms; most of them will be the sons of tenants, or + substitutes provided by them, and will only give two or three days' + service a month. It is probable, however, that half will be regular + retainers at the castle. I know nothing about the castle at present, or + how large it is, or whether it is defensible or not; still, it was spoken + of as a castle, and 'tis, I suppose, one to a certain degree. + </p> + <p> + “At any rate, I desire that if I do put a troop in the field they shall be + as well drilled and as well equipped as are the Scottish regiment of + musketeers. I suppose that there must be an official to act as my agent + when I am away, and to act as castellan, but in any case the captain of my + troop will be in charge of all matters connected with its defence. Now, + old friend, the post is yours if you like to take it. As a soldier, none + can be better fitted for the post than a sergeant of the Scottish + regiment; as a man, there is no one I could rely on better than you. Your + duties would not be heavy, your position an honourable one. The castle + would be your home as well as mine, and when I am there you would have the + four troopers to crack with.” + </p> + <p> + “Your offer is a most kind one,” the sergeant said, “but I must think it + over in all lights before I answer. I should miss the company of the lads, + but already many of my old comrades are gone; most are still in Paris + earning with difficulty their bread, some are under the sod, some have + returned home. Every year the number who rode with me lessens. They will + be countrymen, but no longer comrades. Certainly I have no thought of + returning to Scotland, the people are ower gude for me; besides, the + country is all in a stir and the folks are flying at each other's throats. + I wudna go back, not if they offered me a barony. Then, on the other hand, + I misdoubt me how I should feel among strangers—I don't say + foreigners, for I have been so long here that as far as tongue goes I am + as much French as I am Scottish. Still, I would rather be forming troopers + in your service than drawing stoups of wine, and the young soldiers do not + regard me as the old ones did, and grumble if I will draw them no more. + Most of all, I should like to be with you and in your service, and to know + that I had a home in my old age.” + </p> + <p> + “That you will have whenever you come to claim it, MacIntosh, whether you + accept my offer or not. However, I think that what you say is best, and + that it would be well for you to think the matter well over and give me no + answer until I return. I should be sorry indeed if, after giving up your + place here and going down to Poitou, you should regret the exchange. + Therefore, we will leave it so. And now I must be going; we must postpone + our chat over old times and the regiment until I return.” + </p> + <p> + On returning to Conde's hotel Hector found Paolo awaiting him. + </p> + <p> + “Paolo, you must go out and buy six horse cloths and five housings; let + them be fairly handsome. I have taken four old soldiers into my service, + and should wish their horse appointments to be fit for troopers in one of + the royal regiments, but without any insignia or cognizance, say maroon + with yellow braiding. I shall also want four valises for the men, and bags + for carrying forage. You can wrap up the housings that came with the + horses; they all bear Enghien's cognizance, and this must be removed + before we can use them. The men can strap them behind their valises. Were + there pistols in the holsters?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, master, they were just as when you rode them.” + </p> + <p> + “It was a princely gift,” Hector said, “for the horses are all splendid + animals. Have you packed up my things?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, master, they are all ready for placing on the sumpter horse. I + bought a dozen of good wine, thinking that you might need it on the way, + for some of these country auberges keep but poor stuff.” + </p> + <p> + “We are getting luxurious all at once,” Hector laughed. “How about my + armour?” + </p> + <p> + “That is also packed up. I thought that you would not care to ride heavily + accoutred.” + </p> + <p> + “Certainly not. Which of the horses do you take to be the best?” + </p> + <p> + “Certainly the one you rode in upon is the best, master, but all four are + grand animals. The two I picked up on the battlefield are fine animals + also.” + </p> + <p> + “It does not make much matter which I ride now, Paolo; we shall have the + opportunity of seeing which has the most fire and endurance as we ride + along; and at any rate I shall keep Enghien's four horses for my own + riding, keeping two with me and leaving two behind at the castle. I shall + buy four strong and serviceable horses for the troopers when I get my + first rents, for in sooth my purse is beginning to run very low.” + </p> + <p> + “Possibly, master, when you look in the armoire in your room you may find + something to replenish it. One of the cardinal's servants brought a packet + for you. I stowed it away and locked the door of your room.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, there is no time to lose, Paolo, so see at once about the matters + that I have told you. Here is sufficient money to buy the other goods.” + </p> + <p> + “Here is the key of the room, sir.” + </p> + <p> + Having seen Paolo hurry away, Hector went up to his room. In the armoire + he found the packet, which was a heavy one. Opening it, he found a letter + and a bag sealed with wax. The letter was from the intendant general. It + was directed, “A Monsieur le Baron de la Villar.” + </p> + <p> + “It does not look as if it could be for me,” Hector said, with a merry + laugh. Breaking the seal he found: + </p> + <p> + By the order of Monseigneur Cardinal Mazarin, first minister of the crown, + I enclose the last half year's rents of the estates of la Villar received + by me from the royal intendant in charge of the said estates three weeks + since, to defray the necessary expenses that must be incurred by you + between the period of your taking possession and, of receiving the next + half yearly payment of rents. + </p> + <p> + Enclosed with this was a formal permit, giving a month's leave of absence + to visit his estates, “To Colonel Campbell, Baron de la Villar, commanding + the Poitou regiment.” + </p> + <p> + “Very nice and thoughtful on the part of the cardinal,” Hector said, “and, + moreover, very seasonable, for I was wondering how I should pay the + retainers at the castle and my four troopers until the rents began to come + in. By the time I had paid the usual fees to the servants here, and the + expenses of the journey to Poitou and back, I should have been almost + penniless, and should have been obliged to borrow from someone on the + strength of my coming rents, which would have been a very bad beginning.” + </p> + <p> + After bidding farewell to Conde, and thanking him for his hospitality, + Hector started immediately the midday meal was concluded. His cavalcade + made a good show as he rode through the streets of Paris, with the four + orderlies behind him, splendidly mounted, followed by Paolo leading + another fine horse carrying baggage. The journey was an uneventful one, + and on arriving at the castle of Villar, Hector was received by the royal + intendant. It was still a place of considerable strength, standing on the + crest of a hill. It had been kept in a good state of repair by the + intendant, and could offer a stout resistance to anything short of an army + provided with a powerful battering train. On making a tour of the estate + Hector found that here, as throughout France, an immense amount of + distress existed, owing to the crushing taxation rendered necessary by the + war; he made minute inquiries of the intendant of the circumstances of the + various tenants of the estate. + </p> + <p> + The officer was about to return to Paris now that his commission was + ended, but as he had a son who had acted as his assistant, Hector + appointed him in his stead, charging him to press no one unduly. He placed + under his care the domestic arrangements of the castle, retaining the + servants who had been there under the royal officer. There was only a + permanent garrison of twelve men, but this could be raised to a hundred + were the tenants of the estates driven to take refuge within the walls. + The expenses of keeping up the castle were not large. The rivers afforded + an abundance of fish, and the forests on the mountainsides sheltered an + ample supply of game. Considerable numbers of half wild sheep and two or + three herds of cattle grazed on the domain round the castle, and there + were eight good horses in the stables, besides a score of others on the + hills. Most of the holdings had vineyards, and were bound to furnish a + certain amount of wine to the castle, and as the consumption had been + small since the estate was confiscated, the cellars were full. Hector told + the steward that the command of the castle itself would be taken by an + officer whom he would send down from Paris, who would have control in all + matters save in the management of the estate. + </p> + <p> + Before leaving, he called all the tenants together and told them that, + seeing how heavily the royal taxes pressed upon them, he should remit half + their annual payments until better times came, and also the fine of a + year's rent which they would in the ordinary course of things pay on the + appointment of a new lord. The news filled the poor people with delight. + </p> + <p> + “I shall, however,” he went on, “expect that you will render fully and + willingly the military service you are bound to give according to the + tenure of your holdings. In a short time my castellan will arrive here; he + will have instructions from me to make the service as little onerous as + possible, and that you shall each furnish your quota of men at times when + it may be most convenient for you. I shall, however, expect fifteen men + added to the strength of the garrison. These can be changed every eight + weeks. All the men capable of bearing arms will come up for training one + or two days in each month. I trust that you will never be called upon to + defend the castle, but I would have it always kept in such a state that + were troubles to arise you could all, with your wives and families, find + refuge here and be able to defend yourselves against all attacks. + </p> + <p> + “Next winter I shall have the fortifications strengthened. I know that you + are bound to furnish horses and carts for so many days in the year. I + shall want this work performed, but you will be paid both for your own + work in building, and for your carts and horses; and as it will be done at + a time when there is little farm work on hand, this will be a benefit to + you, and the wages will be deducted from the payments that you have to + make.” + </p> + <p> + Loud cheers rose from the men, who were overjoyed on learning that their + new lord was inclined to deal so generously with them, and especially that + the fine, which many of them would have found it impossible to pay, was to + be altogether remitted. Having completed all his arrangements Hector + returned to Paris, mounting his men on four of the horses he found in the + stables, and leaving at the castle two of those which Enghien had given + him, and the two Paolo had caught on the field of battle. He arrived on + the evening of the day before his leave expired, put up at the auberge of + the Pome d'Or, and early the next morning took his way to The Scottish + Soldier. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0012" id="link2HCH0012"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XII: THE POITOU REGIMENT + </h2> + <p> + “Well, MacIntosh,” Hector said as he entered the cabaret, “have you made + up your mind? The castle is a strong one, and I mean to make it stronger. + The air is good and so is the wine, and I am sure that you will find the + duties pleasant. + </p> + <p> + “If you go I think it would be as well that you should take a couple of + your old comrades—you said there were many of them in Paris—with + you, to act as your sergeants, drill the tenants, and see that all goes on + in order. It will be pleasant for you to have two of your old friends with + whom you can talk over past times.” + </p> + <p> + “I had decided to accept your offer, Hector; but certainly this would have + decided me had I not already made up my mind. That was the one drawback, + that I should be among strangers, but with two of my old friends I should + not feel lonely. There is Sholto Macfarlane, he was in my troop. He lost a + hand from his musket bursting three years ago, and now makes his living by + helping the boatmen unload at the quays. Then there is Kenneth Munroe. He + was invalided after a bad attack of fever in Flanders, and now teaches the + broadsword exercise at a fencing master's place at St. Denis. They would + both jump at the offer if they only got free lodgings and keep.” + </p> + <p> + “Then that is settled, MacIntosh. I am heartily glad of it. Now the sooner + you get down there the better.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, I can go at once. Sergeant Morrison is taking his discharge at the + end of the week. He is a married man with a helpful little wife. I was + telling him of the offer that you had made me, and he asked me what I + would take for the cabaret. It is a good business, and having a wife he + could manage it better than I can. I said that if he had a fancy for it I + would rather that he took it than another; and he would do better than a + Frenchman would, for the lads would not care for the place unless it was + kept by one of the regiment. He asked me what were the profits. I told + him. + </p> + <p> + “'Then I am afraid that you would want a bigger sum than I could pay, + MacIntosh,' he said. 'I have been a saving man, especially since I first + thought of marrying, and I have laid by half my pay for the last eight + years; but that would not go far towards the purchase of the place, for + your profits in a year are as much as my savings of eight years.' So I + said to him, 'Well, we will get the place valued. You will want half the + money that you have saved to stock it well, the other half you shall pay + me down; and I will give you five years to pay the rest, you paying me a + tenth part every half year.' + </p> + <p> + “Well, sir, we struck a bargain on that. The place has been valued, and on + Saturday evening Morrison will come straight in and take it over. He is a + popular man in the regiment; and as he is only just leaving it he is known + to them all, while there are not above a quarter of the men who knew me as + a comrade in the old days.” + </p> + <p> + They then had a long talk over the sergeant's new duties, and Hector gave + him a plan of the new fortifications that he had drawn out, together with + full instructions how they were to be carried out. + </p> + <p> + “The steward will arrange all about the tenants coming to work, and the + proportion of labour that each will have to give. As I have told you, he + will manage all details of that kind, look after the indoor retainers, and + see to the food. You will have entire control of the garrison, of the + tenants who will come to drill, and of the works on the fortifications. + You will find the steward a very pleasant and agreeable young man. He will + take his meals with you. I have chosen a room for you, and you can have + another near it for your two sergeants. You can pay them at the same rate + as sergeants of the regiment receive, and I need hardly say that the + position will be a good deal better. As commander of the garrison and + castellan of the castle you will be called Captain MacIntosh, and as such + you will be named in my letter appointing you to the post, and I propose + that you shall receive the pay of captain.” + </p> + <p> + “The pay is immaterial, lad, I have been nigh twelve years here, and have + laid by enough to keep me comfortably all my life, and as, so far as I can + see, there will be nothing to spend down there, I don't know what I should + do with pay.” + </p> + <p> + “That is nonsense, MacIntosh. You must draw the pay, and spend it as you + like, or save it. You must remember that I may be killed in the next + battle I go into, and as I have no heirs the king will give the fief to + someone else. The newcomer might like myself have some friend who he might + appoint castellan.” + </p> + <p> + “It would make no difference,” the other said. “In addition to what I have + saved I shall have the price of the cabaret.” + </p> + <p> + “That is not to the point, MacIntosh. The steward has instructions to hand + you your money monthly, while the garrison will be paid weekly. If you + choose to throw the money into the fosse, that is your own business, mine + is to see that my castellan is paid. I am going over at noon today to St. + Denis, where my regiment is quartered, but will ride in on Saturday. You + must buy three horses for yourself and your sergeants; get good + serviceable animals.. I have told the steward to repay you their cost when + you arrive there; he has monies of mine in hand for all purposes.” + </p> + <p> + Hector then went round and had a chat with Colonel Maclvor, and returned + to the auberge, where the troopers and Paolo had the horses already + saddled. He mounted and rode with them to St. Denis, putting up at an + hotel. He found where the regiment of Poitou were stationed and at once + proceeded there on foot. Two or three officers were chatting together in + the barrack square, while some sergeants were drilling the companies. + </p> + <p> + He at once went up to them. “Gentlemen,” he said, “I must introduce myself + to you. I am Colonel Campbell; I have the honour to command the regiment. + I shall be glad if you will order the officer's call to be sounded and + send orderlies off at once to the lodgings of the officers and ask them to + assemble. To whom have I the pleasure of speaking?” + </p> + <p> + The senior officer introduced himself and the others. Report had told them + that their new colonel was still a young man, and that he had served with + distinction under both Turenne and Enghien, but they were not prepared for + so young a commander as this. The French regiments had, as a rule, two + colonels, the one a veteran soldier, who had won his way to the rank by + long service and long fighting, the other a young nobleman who had gained + the post solely by family influence, but possessed no knowledge whatever + of military matters, and who was never with the regiment except when it + went upon a campaign, and even then generally preferred the pleasures of + Paris to the hardships of war. Had Hector been appointed to what was + called the second no surprise would have been felt at his youth, but that + anyone should have gained the position of first colonel at his age by + sheer merit was astonishing indeed to them. In twenty minutes the officers + were all assembled and introduced by the senior captain to Hector. + </p> + <p> + “We will not begin business now,” the latter said. “My leave of absence + does not terminate until tomorrow morning, and I think that it is much + more pleasant to talk over matters comfortably round a table than it is to + do so in a set manner. Therefore, gentlemen, if you will all sup with me + this evening at the Fleur de Lis, after we have finished our meal we will + talk over our wine. My opinion is that officers of a regiment should be + good comrades. The regiment benefits by it, and everything goes on more + smoothly and comfortably. This is specially so in a newly raised regiment, + where the officers either are altogether new to military matters, or join + from other regiments, and have no previous knowledge of each other. In the + same way the men are all new to each other, and to their officers. Unless + there is perfect harmony among the officers, there cannot be perfect + harmony in the regiment. + </p> + <p> + “If one officer looks after the comfort of his company, and treats them as + he should do, while another company is neglected and left solely to the + care of the sergeants, there will necessarily be envy and ill feeling. The + regiment will cease to be a unit. I may say, gentlemen, that this is the + dictum not of myself, but of Marshal Turenne, who was my instructor in the + art of war, and who followed out the better system from the time that he + was a boy of fourteen until now. The result is that his regiment is the + finest in the service. It will be my aim and ambition to raise the Poitou + regiment as nearly as possible to the same condition, and I shall rely + upon your assistance and cooperation to bring this about. + </p> + <p> + “Supper will be served at six. I have only just returned from the country, + and have heard no news. I suppose that no intimation has been received as + to what is our destination and whither we shall march?” + </p> + <p> + “None whatever, colonel,” de Thiou, the senior captain, said. + </p> + <p> + “All the better. I hope that they will give us a couple of months to get + into shape. There is but little time for drill and discipline when we are + once in the field.” + </p> + <p> + So saying he saluted the officers and returned to the hotel. + </p> + <p> + “Who would have thought of seeing a mere lad placed at the head of the + regiment as colonel,” one of the captains said. “I cannot imagine how such + a thing can have come about, for certainly he can have no family + influence. A newly raised regiment like ours wants a bright man, one that + all can look up to and respect.” + </p> + <p> + “I fancy that you will find that this young gentleman will be respected,” + de Thiou said. “He is young and pleasant looking, and whatever he is I + should say that he is levelheaded, and that he has an infinite fund of + firmness and resolution. I should certainly advise nobody to take + advantage of his youth. I have seen more service than any of you, and had + my family possessed any influence at court, I should have been a colonel + by this time. Unless I am greatly mistaken we shall find that we have a + man, a good man, and a strong one. Do you think that he could have won his + way to a regiment at the age of twenty unless there had been something + quite unusual? I was talking the other day with one of Gassion's staff, + who has come back until the wound that he got at Rocroi is healed. He told + me that Gassion—and France has no better soldier—said publicly + after the battle that the victory was largely due to this young friend of + ours, and that had it not been for him things might have gone altogether + differently; and he said that Enghien, proud and ambitious as he is, + frankly admitted the same thing. Of course I can only go upon what I have + seen of him, but from what he said, and the manner in which he said it, I + am convinced that we could not get a better chief than this young colonel. + I believe that he will make it a comfortable regiment to be in, but I also + believe that those who oppose him will find that they make a grievous + mistake.” + </p> + <p> + The next day Hector took up in earnest the work of organizing the + regiment. In the first place he insisted that the officers should learn + their drill; then, that instead of handing over the practical command of + their companies to their sergeants, they should themselves command them on + the drill ground, look after the discipline and comfort of the men in + barracks, and become personally acquainted with the character of every man + under their command. Many of the sergeants were inefficient; these were + speedily deprived of their rank, and men of good conduct and zeal + appointed to their places. The regard of the men was won by his insisting + that the contractors for their food should send in meat and bread and wine + of the quality that they had guaranteed to supply. + </p> + <p> + Three officers were told off every day to examine the quality of all food + sent in; any reported as being bad was examined by Hector, and if the + complaint was well founded, was at once condemned. Great attention was + paid to the cooking, to the cleanliness of the barrack rooms, and to many + other details that had until then been entirely neglected. There were at + first some grumblers, not only among the men, but among the officers as + well; but the extraordinary and rapid improvement in the efficiency of the + regiment, its appearance and condition, was such that these were not long + in recognizing that although the work was hard, no unnecessary labour was + imposed upon them, while, as their knowledge of drill increased the work + became easier and less irksome. All recognized that by far the hardest + worker in the regiment was the colonel himself. Every morning for the + first month he himself drilled the officers in a courtyard that was not + overlooked, and when they all knew their work, sent them to take charge of + their companies. Until he considered the officers competent, he drilled + the companies by turn, and when drill was over, made a tour of every room + in the barracks, visited the kitchen, and conversed freely with the men, + listening to any complaints. + </p> + <p> + At first the number of men brought up for drunkenness was large. The first + offence he always condoned, giving the offender a lecture on the folly of + his conduct and of the discredit that it brought upon the regiment. For + the second offence a man was confined to barracks, and forced to wear his + coat inside out even at drill. The ridicule that the men had to suffer was + worse than any punishment inflicted upon them, and no case occurred of a + third offence. By turns the three officers of each company dined with him, + and, chatting with them as a friend, he not only gained their liking but + made himself acquainted with their individual characters. Turenne came to + Paris a short time after Hector assumed the command of his regiment, and + as soon as he heard of his arrival, the latter called upon him. + </p> + <p> + “I heard from the cardinal of your good fortune,” the viscount said, “and + congratulate you heartily upon it. Mazarin was good enough to say that the + discovery of the Spaniards' ambush was the result of my teaching, and + indeed I feel somewhat proud of my pupil. I am going to the Rhine, as + perhaps you may have heard.” + </p> + <p> + “I hope to have the honour of serving under you with my regiment, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “I shall be glad to have you, but I fear there is little chance of it. I + am to take the command of the Weimar troops. The death of the duke has + been a heavy blow to us, and it is thought that unless I go down there—I + say it because I have served there and am known by the Weimar troops—that + force will break up altogether. From what I hear, I hardly think there is + much chance of having any French regiments with me, and those now being + raised are likely to be sent to fight under Enghien in Flanders. My + position is, as you know, a painful one, owing to Bouillon having gone to + Italy to take the command of the Pope's troops. I believe that is the + reason why Mazarin has withdrawn me from the command of our army in Savoy. + However, as a soldier I accept the work he has given me, not allowing + family matters to interfere in any way with it, though it is my opinion + that Bouillon has been very hardly treated by the breaking of the + engagements that were given him when he surrendered Sedan to France.” + </p> + <p> + A week later Hector presented himself at the levee of Cardinal Mazarin. + </p> + <p> + “I was expecting to see you, baron. I received your note saying that you + had taken the command of your regiment, and would do yourself the honour + of presenting yourself as soon as you had put matters in trim. Are you + satisfied with your men and your officers?” + </p> + <p> + “With both, your eminence, and trust that in two or three months' time you + will do us the honour of inspecting us.” + </p> + <p> + “And how did you find your barony?” + </p> + <p> + “I was delighted with it. The castle is a strong one, and I am taking + steps to add to its strength; and I believe when it is finished that it + will be almost impregnable save by an army, and that well commanded.” + </p> + <p> + “Then you think,” the cardinal said with a smile, but with a certain air + of seriousness, “that you could offer me a safe asylum if I needed one.” + </p> + <p> + “I trust that such an event may never occur, your eminence, but if it + should, my castle is at your disposal, and I will guarantee that it will + resist for three months, whoever might attack it.” + </p> + <p> + “One can never say,” the cardinal said mournfully. “Oh, these nobles! They + are, as they have ever been, the curse of France. Each man thinks only of + himself and of increasing his domains. What France may suffer matters + nothing to them so that they are enriched. Were one of them capable of + ruling France I would gladly retire; but who is there? Orleans, vain, + empty headed, treacherous to his friends, a man whose word is not to be + relied upon. Conde, who thinks only of enriching himself and adding to his + possessions. Beaufort, a roistering trooper. None of these men could + maintain his position for a moment. The whole country seethes with + discontent at the heavy taxation necessitated by the war; Paris, as is + always the case when there is trouble in the air, is restless and + turbulent. I have good friends, but they are insufficient to sustain me + against the intrigues of my enemies. The queen alone upholds me. Truly, + the burden is too great for one man to bear. + </p> + <p> + “You will wonder why I am speaking thus to you, Colonel Campbell, but it + is of the greatest necessity that her majesty should know upon whom she + can rely absolutely in case of trouble. You, sir, being altogether + unconnected with any of the great families of France, stand in a different + position from that of the great majority of officers of your rank. Look + where I will, I see our regiments officered by men connected by birth and + family with one or other of the men who are at present intriguing against + us, and were they ordered to take steps to arrest, for example, one of + those persons connected with them, they might, without openly refusing, + give such warning to them that they would be able to escape. Now, sir, I + ask you to tell me frankly whether, under all contingencies, the queen can + rely upon your services? I give you my word that whatever your reply is, + it shall in no way count against you. There are cases in which it would + doubtless be painful to you to carry out such an order. You are a protege + of Monsieur de Turenne. Monsieur de Turenne is brother of the Duc de + Bouillon, and, as I know, you yourself were staying for some months in the + castle of Sedan, where you went to be cured of your wounds. Now, monsieur, + frankly, were you ordered to arrest the Duc de Bouillon, would you carry + it out without fear or favour?” + </p> + <p> + “Certainly I would, your excellency; and should you give such an order to + Marshal Turenne he would do so himself. He is a soldier of the queen + before all things, and has taught me that my duty is towards the sovereign + who represents France, regardless of all other considerations.” + </p> + <p> + The cardinal while speaking had watched the young soldier's face + scrutinizingly. Faithful as Turenne had always been to the crown, even + when his brother was in arms against it, Mazarin had still in his heart + some doubts as to his fidelity under all circumstances. He could not but + be conscious that faith had been absolutely broken with Bouillon, and, + accustomed to tortuous ways, he could scarce imagine that Turenne would + hold himself altogether above family interest. He saw by the manner more + than the words of Hector that he was speaking from a profound conviction. + In asking him the question, he had been thinking more of Turenne's loyalty + than of the young colonel's. Having been four years in the closest + connection with the marshal, he could not but know his real sentiments, + and he felt sure that had Turenne expressed any anger at the treatment his + brother had received, he would have seen it in the young man's face. The + answer was a reassuring one. + </p> + <p> + “Thank you, monsieur le baron; the musketeers and the Swiss guards we know + we can absolutely rely upon, and I shall be glad to be able to inform the + queen that she can place implicit faith in your regiment. I need not + impress upon you the necessity for our conversation being regarded by you + as absolutely confidential.” + </p> + <p> + Hector, thinking the matter over, had no great difficulty in the end in + arriving at the truth, namely, that his own loyalty was a very secondary + object of interest to the minister, and that his real motive in thus + apparently opening his mind to him had been, not to gather his own + sentiments, but to endeavour to ascertain those of Turenne. From the talk + among his officers he had already learned that the general opinion was, + that although the queen had always entertained a most favourable opinion + of Turenne, and had herself nominated him as marshal and commander of the + forces on the Rhine, Mazarin had assented to the arrangement because he + feared that the army of Italy would probably follow its commander should + the latter take up the quarrel of his brother, while, on the Rhine with + but a few regiments, to all of whom he was a stranger, under his command, + he would be practically powerless, whatever his sentiments might be with + regard to Bouillon. + </p> + <p> + In the middle of August Hector received an order from Mazarin to take part + with his regiment in a review which the queen intended to hold at + Versailles two days later. At this review the musketeers, the Swiss + guards, the Scottish regiment, and two regiments of the line besides his + own, the queen, the young king, Mazarin, and most of the members of the + court were present. The Poitou regiment acquitted itself admirably, and + its marching, and the steadiness with which it went through its + manoeuvres, were in such strong contrast to that of the other two infantry + regiments, which had both been formed for some years, as to excite the + surprise and admiration of the spectators. After it was over a mounted + officer rode up to Hector and told him that the queen wished to speak to + him. Riding up, he dismounted, and advanced to the queen's pavilion. + </p> + <p> + “Monsieur Campbell,” the queen said graciously, “I wish to express to you + how well satisfied we are with the efficiency of your regiment, and the + admirable way in which it has gone through its manoeuvres. Never have I + seen these better performed; and this is the more surprising as it has + been but four months raised, and but three months under your personal + command. The cardinal has informed me that he learns that this is due + entirely to your personal exertions, and the care that you have bestowed + upon it. I wish that all my officers showed the same zeal and diligence. + In order to mark my gratification at the conduct of the regiment, I have + requested monsieur le cardinal to order that two companies of your + regiment shall be quartered at the barracks now occupied by the Scottish + regiment, which is to march east tomorrow.” + </p> + <p> + Hector bowed deeply; and, immensely gratified at the praise that his + regiment had received, returned to his place at its head, and marched back + to St. Denis. On their arrival there he informed his men of the gracious + words the queen had been pleased to say about the regiment, and the great + honour bestowed upon them by the quartering of two companies in Paris. The + men broke into loud cheering as he concluded. + </p> + <p> + Hector then called the officers together. “Gentlemen,” he said, “I have to + thank you for the admirable way in which you have seconded my efforts, and + by the aid of which the regiment has just gained the high commendation of + Her Majesty, within so very short a time after it has been raised. I have + been thinking the matter over as I rode back, and I have decided that + where all did so well, it would be invidious to give to any the sole + honour of being thus quartered near the Louvre and furnishing guards, and + to yourselves the pleasure of being in Paris. Therefore, gentlemen, I + shall send, in the first place, the first and tenth companies. At the end + of two weeks the ninth company will take the place of the tenth; a + fortnight later, the second will take the place of the first, and so in + order, so that each company will in turn have its share in this honourable + service.” + </p> + <p> + There was a general murmur of satisfaction. The next morning a formal + order was received that two companies of the Poitou regiment should march + into Paris, and occupy a portion of the barracks which the Scotch regiment + had just vacated. + </p> + <p> + Hector called up the two companies he had selected. + </p> + <p> + “Now, men,” he said, “you see the advantage that you have gained by + discipline and good conduct. I have no doubt that before granting us the + honour of forming a part of the garrison of Paris, the minister has made + inquiries respecting the conduct of the regiment here, and has doubtless + heard that it has been eminently satisfactory, and that the authorities + and inhabitants have no complaint, of drunkenness or misconduct, against + us. Of misconduct there have been no cases, of drunkenness very few, and, + indeed, for the past month there has not been a single case among you. I + trust that you will remember that while in Paris the credit of the + regiment is in your hands, and that no single case of drunkenness or + brawling in the streets will take place. I feel confident that this will + be so, and I need hardly say that should there be an exception, the + punishment will be vastly more severe than any that has previously been + awarded, and I am sure that any offender will find, in the contempt with + which he will be regarded by his comrades, a still more severe punishment + than any that I can inflict.” + </p> + <p> + That evening Captain de Thiou and the other officers of the two companies + that were to march into Paris the next day dined with Hector; and after + dinner de Thiou rose and said: “Colonel, I have been requested to express + to you, on behalf of the whole of the officers of the regiment, our deep + gratitude for the honours that our regiment has obtained. These you were + good enough yesterday to ascribe partly to us; but we feel that they are + wholly due to yourself. Although some of us were at first a little + inclined to think that the changes made by you in our work were + unnecessary, all now recognize fully how great has been the benefit, not + only to the regiment, but to ourselves. Duties which were at first + considered irksome are now regarded as pleasant. We feel that, as you said + would be the case, we have acquired the respect of the men, and that it is + upon us that they rely, and not upon their sergeants. + </p> + <p> + “Our own time passes more pleasantly from being fully occupied, and from + consciousness that we are doing our duty. As to the regiment in general, + the benefit has been enormous. The men seem pleased with the interest + shown in them, as much as with the comfort that they now enjoy, and they + in turn endeavour to satisfy us, both by their attention to drill, by + their bearing and manner, and by their avoidance of giving any cause for + complaint. All this, monsieur, has been your work, and I am sure that we + are all conscious of the difference of the display we made in the park, + and that which we should have shown had it not been for the reforms which + have been introduced by you. We all trust that the day may not be far + distant when we shall be able to prove on the field of battle the same + efficiency that has won us credit upon the parade ground.” + </p> + <p> + “I thank you heartily, Captain de Thiou, for what you have been good + enough to say on your own behalf and that of the officers of the regiment. + I can only say that I have endeavoured to act up to the teaching of + Monsieur de Turenne, and I felt sure that although my methods might at + first seem irksome to some of you, their value would gradually become + appreciated. I am scarcely less pleased at the decrease in drunkenness, + and at the general improvement in the men, than by the increase of + discipline and efficiency.” + </p> + <p> + “Do you mean to come to Paris, colonel?” De Thiou asked presently. + </p> + <p> + “No; I shall remain here. I shall ride in every day, but my presence will + be more necessary with the regiment than with only two companies. You as + senior officer will be responsible for the general order of the + detachment.” + </p> + <p> + Hector rode in the next day with his men, and after seeing them + comfortably lodged in barracks, returned to St. Denis. A week later + reports reached St. Denis of a strange scene at the court. The haughty and + insolent Duchess of Monthazon, who belonged to the party of the + Importants, had the impertinence to insult the queen grossly in the + gardens of the Tuileries. She had at once been disgraced and ordered to + retire to Rochfield, and the Duke of Beaufort and his friends were furious + at this exercise of Mazarin's authority. The next day Hector received a + message asking him to call at the Hotel de Cleves, the cardinal's + residence. On his presenting himself, he was at once shown into Mazarin's + private apartments. + </p> + <p> + “Monsieur de Villar,” Mazarin said, “I am sorely in need of friends. You + have heard of what has happened, and from the threats that he has publicly + uttered against myself I am convinced that Beaufort will hesitate at + nothing to bring about my ruin. I hear that you are still with your + regiment at St. Denis. I shall be glad if for a time you will take up your + abode at Paris, and will hold yourself in readiness to be of service to me + if there should be occasion. Beaufort is capable of even attempting my + life; he is very unscrupulous, and will hesitate at nothing. I shall be + glad if you will take up your lodging within a short distance of this, so + that I can communicate with you instantly.” + </p> + <p> + “Certainly, your excellency; I will keep half a company always under arms, + so that at the shortest notice they will be in readiness to act as you may + direct. But surely, your excellency, you have the queen's musketeers close + at hand?” + </p> + <p> + “The queen's musketeers are a body of gallant soldiers, but they will take + their orders only from the queen. They were strongly anti-cardinalist in + the late reign, and I do not suppose that they are better affected towards + myself than they were towards Richelieu. If they heard that my hotel was + attacked they would not move a foot until they received orders from the + queen to do so.” + </p> + <p> + “At any rate, you shall have no reason to complain of delay on our part, + your excellency, and I can assure you of my devotion.” + </p> + <p> + Hector at once went to an auberge but a few hundred yards from the + cardinal's residence. He thought it better to put up there than to take + lodgings, as he could then have his four mounted men with him; and, riding + to St. Denis, he returned the same night with them. + </p> + <p> + “A horse is always to be saddled,” he said to them when they had + dismounted and his orderlies had come up to his room, “and one of you by + turns will always remain here armed and ready to mount without an + instant's delay. The others will put aside their scarves; and one of you + will always be at the cabaret nearest to the Hotel de Vendome, the + residence of the Duke of Beaufort, who is a son of the Duc de Vendome. At + times two of you can be there so as to drink and play cards together, as + the appearance of one sitting too long might attract attention. Your + object is to find out from the conversation of the duke's guards and + servants whether they have any idea that anything unusual is going to take + place. I have reason to believe that there is a plot against the cardinal, + and I am much concerned in defeating it.” + </p> + <p> + When the four Scotch soldiers had retired, Hector said to Paolo: + </p> + <p> + “Now, Paolo, I place more reliance upon your finding out anything that is + afloat than upon the soldiers. It is not likely that any plans Beaufort + may form will be communicated to his people until the moment for action, + and indeed it is probable that he will rely solely upon his personal + friends. Now I want you to disguise yourself in any way you may think + best, and watch Beaufort's hotel; see who comes in and out, and if a + messenger goes out follow him, see the houses he calls at, and mark if + those who dwell there repair at once to the Hotel de Vendome. If you + perceive that this is the case let me know at once. See if you can get + hold of half a dozen street gamins, and employ them to watch the houses of + all these gentlemen, and especially that of Monsieur Id, captain of + Beaufort's guards, and of the two Messieurs de Campion and the Count de + Beaupuis, who are, I know, among the duke's most intimate friends. There + are scores of these street boys who for a few sous a day would gladly + undertake the work.” + </p> + <p> + “I will do that, master. You can take my word that by tomorrow at noon the + lodging of these four gentlemen will be strictly watched. This is a + business after my own heart.” + </p> + <p> + “In the first place, Paolo, take a note from me to the Hotel de Cleves and + wait for an answer.” + </p> + <p> + The note was a short one. It merely gave the name of the auberge at which + he had taken up his quarters, and added: + </p> + <p> + If your eminence will be good enough to send me every morning a list of + any visits that you may intend to pay, or any journey that you may make + during the day, it would enable me to regulate my movements accordingly in + order to be always here and ready to carry out any orders that you may + send me from your hotel. + </p> + <p> + The cardinal's reply was even more brief: + </p> + <p> + It is well thought of. I shall go nowhere but to the Louvre tomorrow, and + shall probably be there the greater part of the day. Unless you hear from + me to the contrary, you need only remain in between twelve and one. + </p> + <p> + The next morning Paolo appeared dressed in ragged clothes. + </p> + <p> + “What is that bundle of papers that you have got?” + </p> + <p> + “They are lampoons on the cardinal. Nothing so natural as that I should + try and sell them in front of the Hotel de Vendome.” + </p> + <p> + “Nothing could be better, Paolo.” + </p> + <p> + “I have already picked up a dozen gamins, master, sharp little beggars, + who jumped at the idea of being set to watch people. Between them everyone + who goes in or comes out from the hotel will be followed, and they will, + in the first place, find out his name and bring it to me, after that they + will follow him wherever he goes, and from time to time let me know what + he is doing.” + </p> + <p> + Several days passed. The four gentlemen specially named, together with + several others, were frequently at the hotel. There was in this, however, + nothing suspicious, as Hector easily learned that they were all vassals or + close friends of the house of Vendome. On the third day, however, he heard + that at least a dozen of these gentlemen met in twos or threes at various + cabarets near the Duke of Beaufort's, and spent the greater portion of + their time there. Hector at once procured dresses suitable for gentlemen + of the middle class for the troopers, and gave them instructions to spend + the greater portion of their time at the cabarets at which these gentlemen + stopped. Their reports were that they talked of indifferent subjects, but + that they were evidently waiting for someone, as they invariably turned a + glance at the door whenever a fresh comer entered. + </p> + <p> + The next day Hector received a note from the cardinal: + </p> + <p> + I am just starting with the Duke of Orleans for Maisons, where I shall + dine with him. + </p> + <p> + Two hours later the three troopers who had been out returned almost at the + same minute with the news that the persons they were watching had all got + up suddenly and gone out after a messenger wearing the Beaufort cognizance + had come in and spoken to them. And a few minutes later Paolo arrived and + said that the Duke of Beaufort had gone with the Count of Beaupuis to the + convent of the Capuchins, and that several horses had been taken there. + </p> + <p> + Hector thought the matter over. “Certainly,” he said to himself, “as the + cardinal's note is dated at nine o'clock, he is now some distance on his + way. As soon as the duke received notice of his having gone, he notified + his friends. It can only be on his way home that they will venture to + attack him; but even if they have that intention they will scarcely do so + if the Duke of Orleans returns with him, unless, indeed, the duke is + himself in the plot, and as none of Paolo's scouts have brought news of + any communications between Beaufort and Orleans, it is hardly likely that + it is so. + </p> + <p> + “Paolo, do you go down and watch the convent of the Capuchins. If the Duke + of Beaufort remains there with his friend—and he may doubtless be + joined by others—let me know if he rides away. If he does so the + attack may take place anywhere along the road; if he remains, he will + doubtless attack the cardinal as his carriage passes. Should there be more + than one entrance to the convent, put boys to watch them, and bring you + news should the party sally out. I shall be at the barracks. It is there + that you must bring or send me word.” + </p> + <p> + The troopers were ordered to put on their military clothes and saddle + their horses, and a quarter of an hour later Hector rode to the barracks, + followed by them. + </p> + <p> + “De Thiou,” he said, “I want you and the other five officers to have your + horses ready at a moment's notice. I have some sort of idea that there is + a plot on foot against the cardinal, and I want to take a hand in the + matter. I fancy that with you and my five troopers we shall be strong + enough to disconcert the plotters.” + </p> + <p> + Two hours later he received a message from Paolo, saying that the Duke of + Beaufort and three other gentlemen were still at the convent, but that + most of the others had gone to the residence of Henri de Campion in the + Rue St. Honore. + </p> + <p> + “They mean to attack him just at the end of the journey,” Hector said to + himself, “and close to the Hotel de Vendome. Now it only depends upon + whether the Duke of Orleans stays at Maisons or returns with the + cardinal.” + </p> + <p> + He ordered the officers and troopers to mount, and with them took his post + on the road by which the cardinal would return. In half an hour they saw + his carriage approaching. They then moved forward. As the carriage passed + them Hector saluted, and saw to his satisfaction that the Duke of Orleans + was with the cardinal. After the carriage had gone fifty yards Hector + turned, and with his party followed the carriage at that distance. When + within a quarter of a mile of the Rue St. Honore a horseman came along. He + met the carriage, and immediately it passed him turned and galloped back + along the road. Hector felt no doubt that he was placed there to warn the + conspirators to be in readiness if the Duke of Orleans was not in the + carriage, and that there would now be no attempt. However, he closed up to + within thirty yards. As they entered the Rue St. Honore all was quiet + there, and nothing happened until the cardinal alighted at the Hotel de + Cleves. As he did so he looked round, and beckoned to Hector to follow + him. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0013" id="link2HCH0013"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XIII: THE BATTLES OF FREIBURG + </h2> + <p> + The cardinal did not address Hector until he had entered his private room, + when he turned and said sharply, “What means this, colonel? When I saw you + and your officers on the road I felt sure that you were not there for + nothing, and still more sure when on alighting I found you so closely + following me.” + </p> + <p> + “I was convinced, cardinal, that there was a plot against your life, and I + believe that it was only because the Duke of Orleans returned with you + that it was not carried into effect.” + </p> + <p> + “And possibly because they saw your troop behind the carriage. Now tell me + your reason for supposing that I was in danger.” + </p> + <p> + Hector related the various steps that he had taken. + </p> + <p> + “Your spies worked better for you than mine did for me,” the cardinal + said. “That a dozen or so of Beaufort's friends were for some reason or + other spending their time at the Angel Inn and other cabarets I was aware, + but I have had no word of their proceedings today. You have been better + served, doubtless, because your plans were better laid. I hardly think + that they would have attacked me when Orleans was with me, but there is no + saying; for if Beaufort has daring and insolence enough to attempt to slay + the queen's minister within a quarter of a mile of the Louvre, he would + not trouble greatly whether princes of the blood were in the carriage or + not, especially if he had some reason for believing that Orleans would not + regard the deed with very great disapproval. + </p> + <p> + “However, whatever his intentions might be, it is clear that the + appearance of your party of twelve armed men decided the question. We may + regard it as certain that the news that I had such an escort was carried + to them by the man who galloped on ahead. I thank you, sir, I thank you + very heartily, not only for my sake, but for that of France. I will ask + you to go across to the Louvre; I will take half a dozen armed servants + with me, but there is little fear that the attempt will be renewed today. + They must be too much disconcerted by the failure of their plot to make + fresh arrangements so speedily. I shall go first to the Louvre and inform + her majesty of what has taken place. You will remain here for half an + hour, and will then leave by the gate at the back of the house and make a + circuit, and enter the palace by the river gate. The musketeers on guard + will stop you, but I will give you a pass.” And he wrote a few lines on + paper. “The queen's confidential servant, Laporte, will be at the door to + meet you, and will have instructions to escort you by corridors where you + will be unobserved, and so to her majesty's private closet. Were you to + accompany me, Beaufort would soon hear of it, and would be shrewd enough + to perceive that your meeting with me was by no means a matter of chance.” + </p> + <p> + Hector followed out his instructions, and on presenting himself at the + palace was at once taken up to the queen's closet. Laporte went in, and + returning immediately requested him to enter. The queen was walking up and + down the room, her face flushed with indignation. + </p> + <p> + “Her majesty would fain hear from your own lips, monsieur le baron, the + statement that you have made to me.” + </p> + <p> + The queen sat down and listened intently while Hector repeated the story. + </p> + <p> + “There can be no doubt about it, cardinal; this keeping of a number of + armed men within call for days, the summons to them to gather in the Rue + St. Honore, while he himself with others took up his post at the convent + of the Capuchins hard by, the moment his spies had discovered that you had + left for Maisons, could but have been for one purpose. But they shall + learn that although a woman, Anne of Austria, Queen of France, is not to + be deprived of her minister and faithful friend without striking back in + return. Monsieur de Villar, you have rendered me a great service. Is there + any boon that you would ask of me? it is granted beforehand.” + </p> + <p> + “I thank your majesty most humbly,” Hector said. “Already I have received + honours far beyond anything I deserve. I had the honour when thanking your + majesty, to hope some day to be able to give proof that they were not + unworthily bestowed, and still hope to do so.” + </p> + <p> + “You have already shown yourself worthy,” the queen said, “by the manner + in which you have in so short a time rendered the regiment to which we + appointed you so efficient. However, if there is at present no boon that + we can bestow, then remember that the Queen of France holds herself your + debtor, and that you have my royal word that any boon that you may + hereafter ask for, that is in my power to grant, will be given you. Take + this as a pledge of my promise.” And she took off a gold chain exquisitely + worked, and gave it him. He received it kneeling. “Now, sir, we will keep + you here no longer. I have much to say to his excellency. I trust that you + will present yourself at the levee this evening.” + </p> + <p> + “One thing more, colonel,” Mazarin added; “I doubt not that some of + Beaufort's people will endeavour to find out how it was that you came to + be behind my carriage. If they do so you might carelessly mention that you + and your officers had ridden out in a party at St. Germain, and that on + your way back you chanced to fall in with my carriage.” + </p> + <p> + At the barracks Hector called the officers together. “Gentlemen,” he said, + “I have no doubt that your little ride today has somewhat puzzled you. I + am not at liberty to tell you the reason why I requested you to ride with + me; but it is very probable that you may be asked the question, and I beg + you all to remember that we have been on a little party of pleasure to St. + Germain, and having dined there were on our way back when we overtook the + carriage of the cardinal; and seeing that he had the Duke of Orleans with + him, we reined back and followed him, deeming that it would not appear + respectful were we to gallop past the carriage. Please bear this story in + mind. Recall also that we dined at the Lion d'Or there, that our dinner + was a good one and that it was a sort of celebration on my part of our two + companies having the honour to be chosen for duty in Paris. This is a + matter upon which much depends; it is, in fact, a matter of state; and you + may well imagine that I should not be recalling these events to your mind + were it not that a good deal depends upon it, and that I have received + strict orders that this little comedy shall be carried out. I know that I + can rely implicitly upon your discretion, and I have indeed answered for + you all. The story will be true in every respect. Instead of the excursion + having come off today it shall come off on the first day I can arrange + that we can be all off duty.” + </p> + <p> + That evening at the palace Hector was, as the cardinal predicted, accosted + by one of Beaufort's officers, to whom he had been previously introduced. + After talking on other subjects for a few minutes, he said: + </p> + <p> + “I saw you today, monsieur, riding with a party of your officers along the + Rue St. Honore. You did not notice me?” + </p> + <p> + “I assure you that I did not, sir, or I should not have been so rude as to + pass without saluting you.” Then he added with a laugh, “We were riding + slowly, too, for the cardinal's coach was in front of us, and it would not + have been good manners to have galloped past him, especially as he had the + Duke of Orleans with him.” + </p> + <p> + “Had you been far?” the other asked carelessly. + </p> + <p> + “No great distance; a little party of pleasure with my officers to eat a + dinner together, to celebrate the honour we had received in being brought + into Paris. My officers have worked very hard, and the matter served as a + good excuse for giving them a little dinner.” + </p> + <p> + For the next day or two everything passed off quietly, but four of the + officers reported that when dining at a cabaret two or three of the duke's + officers had come in and entered into conversation with them, and had + brought up the subject of their riding in after the cardinal. + </p> + <p> + “You almost looked as if you were serving as a bodyguard to him,” one of + them laughed. + </p> + <p> + “I daresay we did,” was the answer. “It was rather a nuisance; but it + would not have been courteous to have ridden past the carriage.” And he + then repeated the story as had been arranged. + </p> + <p> + Although the Duke of Beaufort had been told by some of his friends that + there were rumours abroad of a plot against Mazarin's life, and that it + would be best for him to leave Paris for a time, he refused to do so, + saying that even if it was discovered the cardinal would not dare to lay + hands on him. Moreover, the replies which had been obtained from Hector + and his officers convinced him that their riding behind Mazarin's carriage + was an accident. + </p> + <p> + On the 2nd of September the duke presented himself at the Louvre as usual. + After speaking with him for a few minutes, the queen left the room with + Mazarin, and Guibaut, captain of the Guards, at once came forward and + arrested him. He was kept at the Louvre that night, and next day was taken + to the castle of Vincennes. Two companies of Swiss guards marched first, + followed by a royal carriage containing the duke and Guibaut. The carriage + was surrounded by the royal musketeers. A body of light cavalry followed, + and the two companies of the Poitou regiment brought up the rear. Thus the + people of Paris were shown that the queen had both the will and the power + to punish, and the fickle population, who would the day before have + shouted in honour of Beaufort, were delighted at seeing that the royal + authority was once again paramount in Paris. The other members of the + party of Importants either fled or were arrested. The Campions, Beaupuis, + and others, succeeded in making their escape from France. The Marquis of + Chateauneuf, governor of Touraine, was ordered back to his province. La + Chatres, colonel general, was dismissed from his post; the Duc de Vendome + was forced to leave France; and the ambitious Bishop of Beauvais and + several other prelates were commanded to return to their dioceses. All the + members of the Vendome family were exiled to the chateau of Annette. + Madame de Chevreuse, de Hautefort, and a large number of other members of + the party were ordered to leave Paris. Thus the party of the Importants + ceased to exist. + </p> + <p> + The people of Paris seemed greatly pleased at what appeared to them the + end of the troubles, and they exclaimed that Richelieu was not dead, but + that he had simply changed his appearance, and had become twenty years + younger. Mazarin chose a number of soldiers belonging to his own regiment, + and several officers who belonged to Richelieu's own guard. These were at + all times to follow him wherever he went. He selected a number of + noblemen, all of distinguished merit and influence, and created five of + them dukes, and thus secured to himself a party that would to some extent + balance the power of his adversaries. + </p> + <p> + He also made an effort to bring about a union between the Duke of Orleans + and the Condes, but failed, owing to the enormous demands that each put + forward. Conde demanded the government of Languedoc for himself, of + Burgundy for Enghien, and Normandy for the Duc de Longueville, and the + entire domains of his late brother-in-law, Henry of Montmorency. Orleans + on his part demanded the province of Champagne, the three bishoprics of + Metz, Toul, and Verdun, and the town and castle of Sedan. As these + demands, if granted, would have rendered the two families all powerful, + Mazarin gave up the attempt, and decided that the best plan to prevent + troubles was to let these dangerous families continue to be hostile to + each other. + </p> + <p> + As soon as he had finished his work of crushing the Importants, Mazarin + sent for Hector. + </p> + <p> + “Now, Monsieur Campbell,” he said, “I have breathing time. The conspiracy + among the nobles is for the time crushed, and now that they see that the + queen is determined to protect me, and that I am not afraid of using the + power committed to me, I hope that it will be some time before they + venture to conspire again. I have further strengthened my position by + granting honours to many distinguished gentlemen who were well inclined + towards me, and on whose support in the future I shall be able to rely. + Now it is time that I should turn to the man who has probably saved my + life, and to whose evidence given before the queen I in no small degree + owe it that she resolved to suppress these insolent nobles. I have not + hurried in this matter, since, by your answer to the queen, it was evident + that you desired no change in your position, and that the matter could + wait. + </p> + <p> + “Still, monsieur, her offer was to grant honours for services rendered to + the state. The matter of the service that you have rendered to Cardinal + Mazarin is still untouched. It is something so new to me that anyone in + France should be so perfectly contented with his lot as to refuse such an + offer as that made to you by the queen, that I feel somewhat at a loss + what to do. I can understand that, young and ardent, increased rank would + have no charm for you. Were it otherwise I could bestow the highest rank + upon you. I am aware that your habits are simple, for I have made + inquiries, and that money in itself goes for little in your eyes; still, + sir, one who has the honour of being first minister of France, and who is + also a very rich man, cannot remain with a debt of gratitude wholly + uncancelled. I hear from my agent in Poitou that you have voluntarily + remitted the fine that your vassals would pay on the occasion of a new + lord taking possession, on account of the heavy taxation that presses so + sorely upon them. + </p> + <p> + “I honour you, sir, for such a step, and have even mentioned it to the + queen as a proof of the goodness of your disposition, and I feel sure that + there is nothing that would please you better than that I should grant the + tenants of your estate an immunity from all taxation; but this I cannot + do. All private interests must give way to the necessities of the state. I + deplore the sufferings of the cultivators of France, sufferings that have + of late driven many to take up arms. It is my duty to repress such + risings; but I have ordered the utmost leniency to be shown to these + unfortunate men, that the troops should not be quartered upon their + inhabitants, and that the officers shall see that there is no destruction + of houses and no damage to property; that would increase still further + their difficulty in paying the imposts, which I regret to say press so + sorely and unduly upon them. Tell me frankly what is the greatest object + of your ambition?” + </p> + <p> + “I thank your excellency most heartily for your kind intentions towards + me, but any ambition that I may have had is already much more than + gratified. I have never for a moment thought of, or even wished that I + might some day become lord of a fair estate and a noble of France. I had + not ventured to hope that I might become colonel of a regiment for another + fifteen years. Both these things have, thanks to the kind appreciation of + her majesty and yourself for a very simple act of duty, fallen to me. If I + might ask a boon, it would be that my regiment may be sent to join the + force of Marshal Turenne. So long as there was danger here I should not + have wished to be removed from a position where I might be of some + assistance, however slight, to the queen and yourself, but now that all + danger is at an end I should be glad to return to active duty. I have + endeavoured humbly to make Marshal Turenne my model. He has but one + thought and one desire—namely, to do his duty and to make the + soldiers under his command contented and happy, but I have no hope of ever + emulating his great merits as a commander.” + </p> + <p> + “That request is easily granted,” Mazarin said, and drawing a sheet of + paper towards him, he wrote: + </p> + <p> + The regiment of Poitou will at once proceed to the Rhine, where it will + place itself under the orders of Marshal Turenne. + </p> + <p> + He added his signature, and handed the paper to Hector. + </p> + <p> + “That counts for nothing,” he said. “You must remember that life is short + and, especially in the case of a minister of France, uncertain. In your + own case you might be disabled in the field and unable to serve further. + The advent of a party hostile to me in power would doubtless be signalized + by acts of vengeance against those who have been friends, and estates + change hands so frequently in France that la Villar might well be + confiscated. No man is above the chances of fortune. I have agents in + England, and have this morning given an order to my intendant to place in + the hands of Monsieur Wilson, a well known citizen of London, a goldsmith, + the sum of fifty thousand crowns to stand in your name, and to be payable + to your order. Here is his address. It is but a small sum for the saving + of my life, but it will place you above the risk of the contingencies of + fortune in this country. I wish for no thanks,” he said, with a wave of + his hand as Hector was about to speak. “I have given more for the most + trifling favours. I now bid you adieu, and doubt not that I shall hear + that you and your regiment have greatly distinguished yourselves in the + east, where hostilities will in all probability shortly be commenced. You + had better present yourself at the levee this evening to make your adieus + to the queen.” + </p> + <p> + This Hector did, and early the next morning rode with his two companies to + St. Denis, where the news that the regiment was to march towards the Rhine + was received with great satisfaction. It was now the middle of October, + and when, after ten days' march, the regiment reached Epernay, they heard + that Turenne had withdrawn his troops from the Rhine, where the + Imperialists had already gone into winter quarters, and had stationed them + in the various towns of Lorraine. His headquarters were at Nancy. Turenne + greeted him warmly upon his arrival. + </p> + <p> + “Matters have been going on slowly since I saw you in Paris. I have been + too weak to fight the Bavarians, who fortunately were too undecided to + attack me. Could they but have made up their minds to throw in their + fortune with Austria, they might have overrun all Lorraine, for aught I + could have done to withstand them. The troopers were without horses, the + infantry almost without clothes, and as the court was unable to send me + any remittances I have been forced to borrow money upon my own estates for + the public service, and have mounted five thousand horse and enrolled + three thousand foot and am still sustaining them. However, I hear from + Mazarin that he will in a week send off a large convoy of treasure, which + will be welcome indeed, for I am nearly at the end of my resources. Some + of my troops are quartered in the town, but the most part are among the + mountains, where they trouble the inhabitants less and have small + temptations towards rioting and excesses. Which would you rather?” + </p> + <p> + “I would much rather go into the country, marshal; my regiment is in good + condition now, but to stay in quarters in a town is bad for discipline.” + </p> + <p> + “So be it. You might make your headquarters at the village of Saline; + there are no other troops within thirty miles of it. On arriving there you + will make inquiries as to the supplies to be obtained within a circle of + fifteen miles round. Fortunately I have a good supply of tents, and any + men for whom you cannot find quarters in the villages can be placed under + canvas. You can draw as much wine as you require for three months' rations + from the stores here, and two months' rations of flour. I will direct the + intendants to take up carts for the transport of the supplies you take + from here. You will doubtless be able to buy meat up there, and I hope + that you will be able to obtain sufficient flour and wine to last you till + the end of the winter, for transport will be very difficult when the snow + is on the ground. Firewood your soldiers will, of course, cut for + themselves in the forests.” + </p> + <p> + The winter passed quietly. Hector managed to obtain quarters for all his + troops—a village being allotted to each company. Before they marched + off to their various quarters, Hector urged the officers to impress upon + their men the advantage of behaving well to the villagers. + </p> + <p> + “Of course the presence of so many men will be of serious inconvenience to + them, but they will doubtless make the best of it if they find that they + are treated civilly and that their lodgers endeavour to give as little + trouble as possible. See that everything down to the smallest article is + paid for, and investigate every complaint, and I will punish any offenders + severely. I have inquired into the average prices that sheep, fowls, pigs, + goats, and other articles fetch, and have made out a list for each + company; the peasants will be gainers by it, for they will be saved the + journey down to the towns. Let this be stuck up in a conspicuous place in + each village. + </p> + <p> + “The intendant will go round and make contracts for the supply of meat, + and will see whether it will be more advantageous to erect ovens for the + baking of bread in each village or to arrange to buy it ready baked there, + we supplying the flour; for the troops, after being accustomed to good + bread at St. Denis, will not be content with the black bread upon which + these poor people exist. I shall pay a visit to each company in regular + order, see that all is going on well, try men who have misbehaved + themselves, and listen gladly to any suggestions that the respective + captains may make to me.” + </p> + <p> + The first company was quartered at Saline, and although the cold was + severe and the life rough the troops were well contented, and Hector was + glad to find that his instructions were carried out and that excellent + relations were maintained between the troops and their hosts. + </p> + <p> + Early in the spring Turenne collected a force of three regiments of + cavalry and two of infantry, and, passing the Rhine at Breisach, fell + suddenly upon a force of Imperialists in the Black Forest, defeated them, + and took three or four hundred prisoners, among whom were many officers, + the rest of them escaping to the army commanded by Count Merci. In May the + Bavarian army, numbering eight thousand foot and seven thousand horse, + marched to besiege Freiburg, five leagues from Breisach, and Turenne + followed with all his force, which now numbered ten thousand men. He + found, however, that the Imperialists had occupied all the strong + positions in the neighbourhood of the town, and not caring to run the risk + either of defeat or great loss, and receiving information that the town + had already opened negotiations for surrender, he fell back some five + miles from the town, sending news to the court that his force was + insufficient to attack the Imperialists. Mazarin thereupon sent orders to + Enghien to set out at once for Germany. As soon as he reached the Rhine + and his army prepared to cross, Enghien, who had been appointed + generalissimo, rode forward with Marshal de Gramont, who was in command of + the army under him, to the camp of Turenne. The meeting between Enghien + and Turenne was most cordial. Enghien had always felt the warmest + admiration for the talents of the older marshal, had been most intimate + with him whenever he was at court, and regarded him as his master in the + art of war. Turenne was free from the vice of jealousy; and as the armies + of France were almost always placed under the supreme if sometimes nominal + command of princes of the blood, it seemed nothing but natural to him that + Enghien should receive supreme authority. + </p> + <p> + The characters of the two men were in complete contrast with each other—the + one was ardent, passionate, prompt in action and swift in execution; the + other, though equally brave, was prudent and careful, anxious above all + things to accomplish his object with the smallest possible loss of men, + while Enghien risked the lives of his soldiers as recklessly as his own. + They always acted together in the most perfect harmony, and their + friendship remained unimpaired even when in subsequent days they stood in + arms against each other. At the council Turenne was in favour of making a + circuit and taking up their post in the valley of St. Pierre, by which + they would intercept the Bavarians' communications and force them by + famine to issue out from their strong lines and fight in the open, and + urged that to attack a position so strongly fortified would entail + terrible loss, even if successful. + </p> + <p> + Marshal de Gramont, and d'Erlac, governor of Breisach, were of the same + opinion. The Duc d'Enghien, however, was for attacking the enemy in their + intrenchments; the idea of starving out an enemy was altogether repugnant + to one of his impetuous disposition, and as generalissimo he overruled the + opinions of the others. He himself, led by Turenne, reconnoitred the + position of the enemy, and decided that the one army, which was called the + army of France, consisting of six thousand foot and four thousand horse, + commanded by Marshal de Gramont, should attack the enemy's position in + front and on their right flank, and the other, called the army of Weimar, + of five thousand foot and as many horse, under Turenne, should move round + by a narrow pass and attack the enemy on the left flank. Merci's army + occupied an almost inaccessible hill whose summit was strongly fortified, + and it was against this that de Gramont's army was to hurl itself. The + entrance to the valley by which Turenne was to fall upon their left flank + was closed at its mouth by very strong intrenchments, and it was behind + this that the main body of horse was posted. + </p> + <p> + To gain his point of attack Turenne had to make a very wide circuit, and + started at break of day on the 3rd of August. It was arranged that + Enghien, who remained with de Gramont, should not attack until three hours + before sunset, in order to give Turenne time to attack at the same hour. + At the time agreed upon, Enghien sent forward two battalions to begin the + attack. The regiments of Conde and Mazarin were to follow, while the duke + held two others in reserve. In order to get at the enemy the assailants + were forced to climb a very steep ascent, and cross a vineyard intersected + by many walls four feet high facing the terrace on which the vines grew. + These were occupied by the Bavarians, but the French attacked with such + vigour that the enemy were driven back. When, however, the latter reached + the great cheval-de-frise, formed by felled trees, in front of the + intrenchments, they could make no further progress, so heavy was the fire + maintained by the enemy. + </p> + <p> + Enghien, seeing this, dismounted, placed himself at the head of the + regiment of Conde, and led them forward, while Marshal Gramont and the + officers did the same. Encouraged by this example, the troops were filled + with enthusiasm, and, following their leaders unfalteringly, made their + way through the cheval-de-frise, and, pressing forward without a pause, + obtained possession of the intrenchments, driving the Bavarians into the + woods behind. The battle had lasted three hours, and had cost the + Bavarians three thousand men, while the French suffered at least equally. + </p> + <p> + Turenne's force had been as hotly engaged. Merci, the best general in the + Austrian army, had foreseen that an attempt might be made through the + defile, and had posted strong bodies of infantry among the trees on either + side. + </p> + <p> + As soon as Turenne entered the defile he was encountered by a heavy fire + from his unseen foes, who, falling back through the trees as he advanced, + continued to gain strength. Turenne had to fight every foot of his way in + order to dislodge the enemy, and it was not until Enghien had brought the + battle to a conclusion on his side, that Turenne arrived and, forcing the + intrenchments guarding the mouth of the defile, found himself in contact + with Merci, who was now able to concentrate his whole force against him. + The combat was a furious one. The troops were engaged at but forty paces + apart, and sometimes had hand-to-hand encounters. Merci brought the whole + of his cavalry into play, but Turenne was unable to use his, as they were + behind his infantry and could not make their way out through the mouth of + the defile. + </p> + <p> + For seven hours the battle raged in the darkness. After losing three + thousand men here, General Merci decided that his army would be totally + destroyed if Enghien should bring his troops down from the hill at + daybreak. Accordingly, leaving a body of musketeers to hide the movement + by their fire, he withdrew the rest of his army and took up another strong + position, partly on a height known as the Black Mountain, covering the + entrance of the valley of St. Pierre and partly in the valley itself, thus + covering his line of retreat. Had the French been able to attack early the + next morning before the Bavarians had time to intrench themselves they + might have won an easy victory; but for the past twenty-four hours the + rain had been falling incessantly, Turenne's army had been marching on the + previous day, and had been fighting for seven hours, and was incapable of + further exertions, while that of Enghien was in little better plight, + having passed the night in the rain on the ground it had won. + </p> + <p> + After such hard fighting both commanders agreed that a twenty-four hours' + halt was absolutely necessary. The day could not be termed one of rest, + for there were thousands of wounded to be collected and cared for, arms to + be cleaned, for they had been rendered useless by the rain, and provisions + to be brought up from the rear. Merci made the most of the time thus given + him. The bottom of the mountain towards the plain was fortified by several + rows of felled trees, and a portion of his infantry was posted between + this point and the town of Freiburg, which was but half a mile away. The + intrenchments that had been formed during the siege of the town were + occupied by them; and as their front was covered by the fire of the guns + from the fortress, as well as by that of the infantry on the hill, he + considered the position to be impregnable, and therefore placed the main + body of his army at the edge of the flat top of the hill, a strong body + behind a wood about halfway up the slope, and his cavalry extended from + that point to the walls of the city. + </p> + <p> + After reconnoitering the position, Enghien determined to make two attacks, + one on the trenches between the foot of the hill and the town, and the + other on the rows of felled trees at the foot of the mountain. A false + attack was to be made between the two points. Turenne's force advanced + nearly to the foot of the hill, the prince's army followed him, and also + took up its position. But just as the attack was about to be made a great + tumult was heard on the hill, and Enghien and Turenne rode to a + neighbouring height in order to ascertain what was going on, leaving + strict orders that no movement was to be made until their return. Count + d'Espenan, who commanded the two advanced regiments of Enghien's army, + however, ordered a detachment to attack a redoubt which stood within the + line of attack, and Merci sent supports to its defenders. + </p> + <p> + D'Espenan sent more troops on his side and the engagement became serious. + Suddenly the Imperialist artillery opened fire along the whole of their + line, and Enghien's troops, apparently taking this for the signal of the + beginning of the battle, moved forward for the assault without order or + leader. As they were broken and confused by endeavouring to pass through + the abattis of felled trees, the Bavarians rushed out and drove them back + with great slaughter. Enghien and Turenne, galloping up in all haste, in + vain attempted to rally them. Officers and men alike were panic stricken. + The two generals then rode to Turenne's army and advanced against the + defence of trees. For a long time the battle raged without any marked + success on either side. Several times the French made their way in to the + intrenchments and were as often repulsed. Merci ordered his cavalry to + dismount, and led them into the fray, but, darkness falling suddenly, the + assailants ceased to attack, and occupied for the night the ground on + which the struggle had taken place. The fight that day had cost them two + thousand troops, and the Bavarians twelve hundred, but as the latter had + lost half their infantry in the first day's fighting the French were still + superior in numbers. During the night Turenne had all the wounded of both + nationalities carried to Breisach. After giving the army four days' rest, + Enghien determined to resort to the tactics that Turenne had from the + first recommended, and, marching along the plain, ascended the valley of + Bloterthal and made for St. Pierre, where he would cut the Bavarian line + of retreat. As soon as Merci saw the movement he gave orders for his army + to fall back with all haste, and although Turenne pressed hard on his rear + he succeeded in drawing his troops off, though, in order to do so, he was + obliged to abandon his baggage and cannon. Altogether he lost between + eight and nine thousand men, with their artillery and most of their + horses. The French loss was equally great, and though the battle was + claimed as a victory by them owing to the Bavarians having finally fallen + back, it was really a drawn one. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0014" id="link2HCH0014"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XIV: JUST IN TIME + </h2> + <p> + The regiment of Poitou had suffered heavily in the battles of Freiburg. In + the first advance Turenne had placed it in the rear of his infantry. + </p> + <p> + “I must have, Hector,” he said, “a reserve upon which I can implicitly + rely; brought up at the right moment it might decide the fate of a battle, + if we are beaten it can allow the disorganized regiments to pass, check + the pursuit of the enemy, and retire in good order, contesting every foot + of the ground until the rest of the force have emerged from the mouth of + the defile and been enabled to form up in sufficient order to withstand + the effect of the enemy's cavalry.” + </p> + <p> + The regiment, therefore, took no part in the work of clearing the defile + of the enemy's infantry, and for the first four hours of the battle + remained in the rear. Then Turenne ordered it to the front, to take the + place of the regiments which had already lost half their strength, and + were no longer capable of resisting the continued assaults of the + Imperialists. Turenne himself rode with Hector at the head of the + regiment. They pushed their way through the hardly pressed troops in + front, and when they faced the enemy deployed and poured a terrible volley + into their assailants, and for the remaining three hours bore the whole + brunt of the battle. Standing four deep, their flanks resting upon the + rising ground on either side of the mouth of the pass, the two front lines + alone maintained their fire so long as infantry only pressed them, the two + lines behind being ordered by Hector not to fire a shot. When, however, + the Bavarian infantry drew aside and the cavalry thundered down, the front + lines fell back through those behind them, and the latter received the + cavalry with such terrible volleys of musketry that they each time broke + and fled. + </p> + <p> + Turenne, after seeing the Poitou regiment take up its post, occupied + himself in reforming the remains of the other regiments, and raising their + spirits by warm words of commendation at the manner in which they had + fought, until assured that they in turn could, if necessary, join the + first line if it were forced to give way. When he had done this he + rejoined Hector, who had dismounted and moved backwards and forwards among + the men, seeing that the gaps caused by the enemy's fire were constantly + filled up, and encouraging the soldiers with praise and exhortations. + Turenne sat upon his horse some paces behind the rear line. When he saw + the Bavarian infantry draw aside, and heard the roar of the cavalry + charge, his lips tightened, and he half turned his horse as if to call up + the regiments behind. When, however, he saw the lines that had hitherto + been in rear take up their place in front and stand there quiet and + immovable, the look of irresolution passed from his face, and, after the + Bavarian horse had fallen back, shattered by their volleys, he pressed a + pace or two forward and shouted, “Regiment of Poitou, I thank you in the + name of France; never saw I a regiment fight more bravely or steadily!” + </p> + <p> + The men responded with a loud cheer to this praise from one whom all + respected and loved. Turenne then rode up to Hector. + </p> + <p> + “Splendidly done, Colonel Campbell! I had rather wondered why you kept + half your men idle in such a fight; I now understand why you did so. Had + all been firing, three-quarters of their muskets would have been empty, + and you would possibly have been overthrown. It was a stroke of genius. I + may have taught you many lessons in war, but tonight you have given me + one.” + </p> + <p> + Turenne remained with the regiment till the end of the fight, and marked + with approval the way in which each line fought by turns, while the other + remained behind them ready to receive the charges of the cavalry. As soon + as the Bavarians drew off he saw that all the wounded were carried to the + rear, where the surgeons rendered what aid was possible, while the rest of + the troops threw themselves down to snatch a few hours' sleep. When, three + hours later, Enghien's troops came down from the hill they had won, + Turenne's force marched out from the defile. Turenne mounted his horse, + and, calling upon Hector to follow him, rode forward with his principal + officers to meet Enghien. + </p> + <p> + “It has been a terrible battle, prince, and if your loss equals mine the + victory has indeed been won at a terrible cost.” + </p> + <p> + “Mine has been heavy, too,” Enghien said, “but we have gained our object.” + </p> + <p> + “Not wholly,” Turenne replied, “for Merci has taken up a position as + strong as that from which we have driven him.” + </p> + <p> + “I wish that I could have lent you a hand in the fight,” Enghien said, + “but the Bavarians had fallen back into the woods, and we knew not whether + they still held their ground there. In the rain and darkness it would have + been dangerous to have crossed the broken ground with its woods and + ravines, and the troops, after their exertions and heavy marches, were + incapable of such an effort. Indeed, I had lost fully half my infantry, + and the cavalry would be useless for such work. You must indeed have been + sorely pressed, having Merci's whole force to contend with. Still, I had + no doubt even if you could not issue from the defile you would be able to + check the enemy.” Then the generals in turn repeated the details of the + battles in which they had been engaged and the losses they had suffered. + </p> + <p> + Turenne then introduced his principal officers to Enghien, and when he had + done so called up Hector. + </p> + <p> + “I need not introduce this officer to you, prince,” he said. + </p> + <p> + “No, indeed,” Enghien replied, holding out his hand; “I have good reason + to recollect you, Colonel Campbell. You have heard, marshal, what a good + service he rendered me at Rocroi?” + </p> + <p> + “He has rendered me one no less this night,” Turenne said. “I never saw a + regiment stand more steadily than the one which he commands, and which he + has trained to what seems to me perfection. For the last three hours that + regiment alone bore the brunt of the battle, although assailed alternately + by infantry and cavalry, and thus afforded time to reform the regiments + that fought earlier in the afternoon and to give me hope that even were + the enemy to overcome the resistance of his men, I could still be able to + check their further advance.” + </p> + <p> + He then told Enghien the manner in which Hector had arranged and fought + his troops. + </p> + <p> + “A good device indeed,” Enghien said warmly, “and methinks it worthy of + adoption whenever infantry have to meet other infantry and cavalry, for + the muskets take so long to reload that there might not be half a dozen + men ready to give fire when the cavalry charge. Is that one of the many + lessons that he tells me you have given him?” + </p> + <p> + “No, indeed; it has not, so far as I am aware, ever been tried before. + Parts of regiments are often held in reserve to reinforce their comrades + if necessary, but this method, whereby half the regiment are able at a + moment's notice to meet cavalry with their muskets loaded, is methinks, + entirely new, and in such cases as the present very valuable.” + </p> + <p> + In the second day's fighting Turenne's army had taken but small share, for + during the retreat of the Bavarians the cavalry alone had come into play. + </p> + <p> + The Bavarians having retreated into Wurtemberg, a council of war was held + to decide in what manner the greatest advantage could be gained during + their absence. Most of the chief officers were in favour of retaking + Freiburg. Turenne was of a different opinion. He represented that the + siege would occupy a considerable time, and that if successful they would, + at the end of a campaign, have simply retaken a town that was theirs when + it began. They could therefore point to no advantage gained by their + efforts or by the loss of so many men. He advised, therefore, that as the + Bavarian army was now sixty miles away, and could not very well return, as + it would need large reinforcements, fresh cannon, and baggage wagons, they + should take the opportunity of making themselves masters of the whole + course of the Rhine and even of the Palatinate. + </p> + <p> + The Duc d'Enghien declared for this plan. Turenne went at once to + Breisach, and arranged for the transport, by boat down the Rhine, of all + the necessaries for the siege of Philippsburg. The army started on the + 16th of August, a part of Turenne's army being detached to capture small + towns and castles. On the 23rd of August Philippsburg was invested by + Turenne, Enghien's force arriving on the following day. Philippsburg stood + on the Rhine, which at this point formed a sharp elbow, and the land being + low, many morasses surrounded the town, and the approach therefore was + exceedingly difficult. Eight hundred paces from the town stood a square + fort, which commanded the river, and was connected with the town by a + causeway. The town itself had seven bastions, round these ran a very thick + hedge, and the moat was wide and full of water. The garrison was a weak + one, not exceeding a thousand men, but they had a hundred pieces of cannon + and a large store of ammunition. + </p> + <p> + Feeling that he could not hold a fort so far from the town, the commander + withdrew the garrison from it, and Turenne seized it, and placed a strong + force there. Enghien then threw up strong lines in a semicircle round the + town to protect the army in case any large force of the enemy should + endeavour to relieve it. This occupied four days, and in the meantime the + boats had arrived with cannon, ammunition, and provisions. A bridge was + thrown across the river in twenty-four hours, and a force was sent over; + this attacked and captured Germersheim, and then marched to Spires, which + at once opened its gates on the 29th of August. In the meantime the siege + of Philippsburg was begun in earnest. The approaches could only be carried + on in one place, where the ground was sandy, and continued so up to two of + the bastions of the town. + </p> + <p> + Turenne commanded the attack against the right bastion, de Gramont that on + the left. They first diverted a brook running through the plain, and were + enabled to use its channel as an approach, thus advancing fifteen hundred + paces nearer to the town. They then formed an intrenchment that could be + used by both columns, and from this on the 1st of September they began to + open their trenches against their respective bastions. De Gramont's works + were attacked on the following day by a sortie; this, however, was driven + back. On the fifth night both columns made a lodgment on the counterscarp, + and their batteries opened fire. After some days' work they filled up the + ditch, and seeing that his force was too weak to oppose so strong an + attack, the commander surrendered on the 12th of September. + </p> + <p> + Although Merci was advancing with an army, Enghien continued the project + that had been formed, and, remaining with his own troops to protect + Philippsburg, sent Turenne with all his horse and five hundred foot to + Worms, which threw open its gates. Oppenheim surrendered without + resistance, and he arrived in front of Mayence. The garrison was very + small, and upon the threat of Turenne that he would attack it on all sides + the citizens sent a deputation offering to capitulate. Turenne sent word + of this to Enghien, who rode there at once, and received the surrender of + the town. Bingen capitulated; Landor, Mannheim, Neustadt, and several + other places were taken; and thus from Strasburg to a point near Coblenz, + the whole course of the Rhine, the Palatine, and all the country between + the Rhine and the Moselle fell into the hands of the French. Enghien + returned to pass the winter in Paris. The greater part of the army was + recalled, and Turenne was left with but a few regiments to hold the newly + acquired territory. + </p> + <p> + “Do you wish for leave, Campbell?” Turenne asked Hector. “You had but a + few days in your new lordship, and have a right to spend at least a + portion of the winter there.” + </p> + <p> + “I thank you, marshal, but I have no idea of leaving you. You have been + good enough to say that you will fill up the gaps in my regiment by + embodying in it the remains of the regiment of Ardennes, which will bring + it up to nearly its former strength. I certainly should not like to be + away while the work of fusion is being carried out. The new men must be + divided equally among the companies, and the officers so arranged that one + of those now appointed shall be attached to each company with two of my + own. Then I must see that all so work together as to arrive at the same + standard as before. I should have wished that if possible the captains of + the Ardennes regiment should be appointed to the new regiment that you are + about to form, and that the places of those who fell in action should be + filled from my list of lieutenants.” + </p> + <p> + “Certainly. You lost five captains, did you not?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, sir.” + </p> + <p> + “If you send me the names of the five senior lieutenants, I will promote + them at once.” + </p> + <p> + “Thank you, marshal; that will make all my lieutenants captains. I lost + five of them and three second lieutenants.” + </p> + <p> + “Then you will require thirteen more officers.” He looked at a list. + “There are eight belonging to the Ardennes, the rest I will draw from + other regiments. There is little fear of their objecting to the exchange, + for your corps won such a reputation that all will be glad to join it; I + will send you back to Nancy. There are barracks there, and no other + troops; and as we are not likely to be disturbed until the spring, you + will have plenty of time to bring the regiment up to its former mark.” + </p> + <p> + The winter, indeed, passed quietly. The officers were all greatly pleased + when they heard the arrangements Hector had made, by which most of them + obtained a step in rank instead of being, as they had feared, passed over + by officers belonging to the Ardennes regiment. The battle of Freiburg had + shown them the great advantage that had been gained by the steadiness and + discipline of their men. They took up the work of drilling again with even + more zeal than before, and it was not long before the regiment was + restored to its former state of efficiency. The reason why he had sent the + regiment back from the Rhine was explained by Turenne to Hector before he + started. + </p> + <p> + “The orders from court were,” he said, “that I was to retain only the + Weimar regiments, and I should have been obliged to send you back with + those of Enghien had I not represented to him that it might be of the + greatest importance to me to have even one good French regiment within + call. We talked it over at some length, and he finally agreed to take upon + himself the responsibility of ordering that your regiment should not go + beyond Nancy, upon the ground that there were very few troops in Lorraine; + and that peasant risings had taken place there, as in other departments, + owing to the terrible distress caused by heavy taxation. He has handed to + me a paper authorizing you to take such steps as you may think fit, as + soon as you receive news of such risings, to aid the civil authorities, if + they should take place at any point within reasonable reach. The regiments + stationed at Metz will naturally maintain order north of Pont-a-Mousson, + while you will send detachments to points south and east of Nancy. You + will understand that you are not to move troops on the strength of mere + rumours, but only when requests for aid are sent by local authorities.” + </p> + <p> + Indeed, during the winter of 1644-45, as in that preceding it, troubles + broke out in many parts of France, and in some the risings of “the + barefooted ones,” as they were called, became for a time very formidable. + The rage of the unhappy peasantry was principally directed, as during the + Jacquerie, against the nobles, and any chateaux were sacked and burned, + all within killed, and terrible excesses committed. + </p> + <p> + In February serious outbreaks took place. A messenger arrived at Nancy + with an urgent appeal for help, and Hector took four companies and marched + with all speed to the disturbed district. As soon as he reached it he + broke up his force, despatching each company in a different direction, his + instructions being that any body of armed peasants they might meet were to + be dispersed, but, once beaten, were not to be pursued and cut up, and + that life was not to be unnecessarily sacrificed. He himself, with one + company, marched towards Poissons. He was within a mile of the town when a + mounted man, bleeding from several wounds, rode up. + </p> + <p> + “The chateau of Blenfoix has been attacked by two hundred peasants,” he + said. “My lady and a dozen retainers are holding a tower, but they cannot + long resist; even now the place may have been captured. I broke my way + through, and, hearing that there were troops in this direction, I have + galloped at full speed to implore your aid.” + </p> + <p> + “How far is it?” + </p> + <p> + “About ten miles.” + </p> + <p> + “You hear, de Mieville; bring the men on with all speed. I will gallop + forward with my troopers and do what I can. Do I go straight along the + road?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, sir, nine miles hence you will see the chateau on an eminence a mile + away to the right.” + </p> + <p> + Followed by his troopers and Paolo, Hector dashed off at full speed. In + three quarters of an hour, at a turn of the road, they caught sight of the + chateau. Flames were pouring through most of the windows. + </p> + <p> + “Now, lads,” he said to the men, “we have got long odds to face, but there + is a lady to be rescued, and if any men can accomplish it we will.” + </p> + <p> + The chateau was partly castellated, the new portion having been built + against what had formerly been a small castle. On its summit a flag was + still flying. Riding on at the top of their speed they soon saw a number + of men swarming round a gate which opened into the older portion of the + building. + </p> + <p> + “Put your pistols in your belts, lads. Don't use them if you can help it, + but trust to your swords. Cut your way through that crowd. Ride in at the + gate, and dismount at the door leading up to the turret. Then do you, + Macpherson and Hunter, cover our rear while we fight our way up the steps. + Follow us as we go, and if you want aid, shout and we will come down to + you.” + </p> + <p> + On hearing the sound of the galloping hoofs the peasants for a moment made + a movement of retreat, but when they saw that the six horsemen were alone, + they began to gather courage, and again waved their arms, which were + mostly axes, or poles to which scythes or billhooks were attached. Riding + three abreast, the horsemen burst in among them, hewing and hacking with + their swords; and the crowd, unable to resist the impetus of the charge, + opened a way for them, and in a moment they had passed through the gate. A + group of men round an open door that marked the position of the turret + stairs, scattered with cries of alarm as they galloped up. In a moment + they sprang from their horses and entered the doorway. The stairs were + narrow, and but one man could mount and use his weapons at a time. They + were, however, densely packed with men. + </p> + <p> + Hector sprang up, closely followed by the others. The resistance was + feeble, for the height above the winding steps was but six feet, and + insufficient for the use of either axes or longer weapons. Many of the + peasants, astounded at seeing the armed men mounting from below them, and + wholly ignorant of their numbers, threw down their weapons and cried for + mercy. Hector contented himself with pushing past them, and running his + sword through any who showed signs of resistance. One or two men armed + with rough pikes made a stand; these he shot, and pressed upwards until + within some twenty feet of the top, when the peasants, half maddened at + finding themselves caught, rushed down in a body. “Close up!” he shouted + to his followers. These pressed close up to him, but the weight was too + much for them, and they were borne by the rush backwards down the stairs, + when the peasants darted out through the door. Hector had received several + knife cuts on the shoulder and arms, and would have suffered still more + severely had not Paolo and Nicholl, who were next to him, thrust their + pistols over his shoulder and shot his assailants, whose bodies, borne + along by the pressure from behind, protected him from the blows of those + above them. + </p> + <p> + “Are you hurt badly, master?” Paolo exclaimed as they stood breathless for + a moment at the bottom of the stairs. + </p> + <p> + “No, I think not; my gorget saved my neck; I have four or five cuts on the + shoulders, but they are mere flesh wounds. Now let us mount the stairs; + the men must have made a stout defence indeed to have held out so long.” + </p> + <p> + The upper part of the stairs was indeed almost blocked with dead bodies. + At the top of the stairs stood two men with axes, which they lowered as + soon as they saw Hector. + </p> + <p> + “You have made a brave stand,” he said, “in defence of your mistress.” + </p> + <p> + “You have arrived but just in time, monsieur, for we are the last two + left, and though we might have accounted for a few more, another five + minutes would have finished it.” + </p> + <p> + Stepping out on the platform at the top of the tower, Hector saw a lady + leaning against the battlements; she was deadly pale, but her face still + bore a look of calm determination. In her hands she held a dagger; + clinging to her was a girl of some fifteen years of age. + </p> + <p> + “Thank God, madam, that we have arrived in time!” Hector exclaimed. + </p> + <p> + “Just in time, monsieur; we had given up all hope, when, as if sent by + God, we saw your little band appear riding towards us. Even then I hardly + ventured to hope; it seemed well nigh impossible that six men should be + able to clear a way through so many. Only two of my faithful retainers + still held the stairs, and it was but too evident that these could not + resist much longer; when one more had fallen I had resolved to plunge this + dagger into my daughter's heart and then into my own. Death would have + been a thousand times preferable to falling into the hands of these + wretches.” + </p> + <p> + “How long have you been beleaguered, madam?” + </p> + <p> + “My men have been fighting for four hours. For upwards of three hours they + did well, for the peasants, being unable to use their weapons, frequently + drew back. Then they hit upon the device of fastening a hook to the end of + a pole, and, catching this round the leg of one of the defenders, dragged + him down, and then despatched him with their knives. One by one four of my + men were killed. For the last half hour the two who remained stood back, + one at each side of the doorway, so that they could not be so entrapped, + and slew those who, mounting the stairs, tried to rush past them. Both + were sorely spent, and the end must have come soon had you not appeared. + Whom have I to thank for this unlooked for deliverance?” + </p> + <p> + “I am Colonel Campbell, Baron de la Villar,” Hector replied, “and have the + honour to command his majesty's regiment of Poitou.” + </p> + <p> + “Your name is not French,” the lady said. + </p> + <p> + “No, madam, I am a Scotchman.” + </p> + <p> + “Then,” the lady said, speaking in English, “I must claim you as a + countryman, for I am Irish. My husband was an officer in the army of the + Duke of Lorraine; he was killed in a skirmish four years ago, and a year + later I married the Baron of Blenfoix, and was again widowed at the battle + of Freiburg, where my husband, who had followed the fortunes of the Duke + of Lorraine, his feudal lord, fell fighting by the side of General Merci. + This is my daughter Norah. But I see that you are wounded,” she went on as + Hector bowed to the young lady. + </p> + <p> + “Not seriously, madam; but I feel somewhat faint from loss of blood, and + will remove my helmet. As it turned out,” he went on somewhat faintly, “it + was unfortunate that I did not put on my body armour; but I had not + anticipated hard fighting, and preferred to ride without it. Thanks for + your offer, lady, but my men will see to me, they are all of them pretty + well accustomed to the bandaging of wounds.” + </p> + <p> + He was now, indeed, almost too faint to stand, and Paolo and Nicholl + seated him against a battlement, and then proceeded to take off his upper + garments and examine his wounds. They were all at the back of the + shoulder, as his assailants, pressed closely against him, were unable to + strike him in front. The lady tore some strips off her garment and + assisted in bandaging the wound, being, as she said, well accustomed to + such matters. + </p> + <p> + “Is all quiet on the stairs?” Hector inquired of the two men whom he had + placed on guard there. + </p> + <p> + “Save for the sound of some groans all is still, colonel,” Hunter replied. + “Methinks that after being withstood for four hours by six retainers they + are not likely to make a fresh attempt against six well armed men. + </p> + <p> + “What are they doing, Macpherson?” + </p> + <p> + “They are gathered in front of the chateau, sir. A large number of things + were dragged out before the flames reached them, and at present they seem + to be quarrelling over the division of them. They have got some barrels of + wine out of the cellars and are making free with them.” + </p> + <p> + “So much the better,” Hector said. “The company will be up in half an hour + at latest, and will give them a lesson unless they move away before that; + and now that they have taken to drinking they are not likely to do so.” + </p> + <p> + The bandaging of his wounds being now completed, Hector was assisted to + his feet. + </p> + <p> + “I grieve, madam,” he said, “that I did not arrive in time to prevent the + chateau being burned.” + </p> + <p> + “The loss is not mine; my husband's estates were confiscated when he + crossed into Germany with the duke, and were some ten months ago granted + to a Monsieur de Thours, a relative of the Prince of Conde; but he sent me + a courteous letter to say that as he was serving with the Duc d'Enghien, I + was welcome to continue to occupy the chateau until the war was over, + receiving the rents as his chatelaine, paying the retainers, and keeping + up the establishment, and sending the surplus to his agents at Nancy. This + I was glad to do, for, indeed, had it not been for his kind offer my + daughter and I would scarcely have known whither to go, as my husband + expended his last crown in equipping a force for the service of the duke.” + </p> + <p> + At this moment Macpherson exclaimed: + </p> + <p> + “I see the head of a company mounting the slope, colonel.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, and there is Captain Mieville. Ah! he has halted the men, and is + riding forward alone to take in the situation. I hope that the peasants + won't catch sight of him.” When Mieville reached a point where he could + obtain a view of the front of the chateau he checked his horse, and after + surveying the scene for a minute rode back to the company. A movement was + at once visible. + </p> + <p> + “He is extending them on each side,” Hector said. “That is good. He is + going to inclose the peasants, and as from the slope in the ground they + cannot see the troops until they are within a hundred yards, he will catch + them in a trap.” + </p> + <p> + The company moved round, in fact, until they had formed almost a + semicircle, then they advanced, closing in as they neared the house. When + they reached the spot where they could be seen by the peasants a trumpet + sounded and they ran in. The peasants, bewildered at seeing the line of + soldiers closing in around them, hesitated. Some were already too drunk to + rise from the ground on which they had thrown themselves, the others + caught up their arms and ran together. Retreat was impossible, for behind + them was the burning house. Suddenly a stream of fire burst from the + semicircle of troops. Some thirty of the insurgents fell, the others threw + down their arms and fell upon their knees crying for mercy. The troops + were rushing forward to finish their work, when Hector shouted “Halt!” + </p> + <p> + “De Mieville,” he said, as the officer rode up towards the tower, “do not + shed more blood. Thirty at least have fallen in their attack on this + turret, besides those who have been killed by your fire. Take the rest, + disarm them all, let the men cut some stout switches and give every man + twenty blows well laid on the back, and then let them go. Before you do + so, send a dozen of them to clear the staircase and to draw some buckets + of water from the well and sluice the steps down. Paolo, do you run down + and find a vessel of some sort and a goblet or horn, and bring up some + wine from one of those barrels. The ladies sorely need something after + what they have gone through, and I myself shall be all the better for it, + for the loss of blood has given me a raging thirst.” + </p> + <p> + Paolo had no difficulty in carrying out the order. The rioters had brought + out several pails for holding the wine, a score of silver cups and other + vessels lay where they had been dropped when the soldiers appeared, and + the officer had placed two men on guard over them. Paolo thoughtfully + brought up a pail of water as well as of wine. The ladies drank a little + wine and water, while Hector took a long draught, and made the two + retainers who had fought so stoutly, and his own men, do the same. In half + an hour the staircase was cleared and washed down, and the party then + descended. The baroness had told Hector that for the present at any rate + she would go to Nancy, and would report to the new lord's agents there + what had happened, and doubtless he would send a man to take charge of the + place. + </p> + <p> + “These cups,” she said, “were all the personal property of my husband, and + I am therefore free to take them. Many of them have been in his family for + a very long time. Their sale will enable me to live until I can form some + plans for the future.” + </p> + <p> + The several silver vessels were collected and wrapped up ready for + transport in some of the hangings that the rioters had torn down. An + outhouse adjoining the keep was cleared out and thickly spread with rushes + for the accommodation of the baroness and her daughter. The troops had + already had a very long march, and it was out of the question that they + could return to Nancy that night. Fires were lighted in front of the + house, and the soldiers prepared to bivouac there. Three of the troopers + were sent off with orders to the captains of the other three companies to + concentrate the next morning at a village on the line that would be taken + on their return march. Some men were sent down to the little town of + Blenfoix to purchase bread and meat, together with torches and other + necessaries. At nightfall Hector posted sentinels, as he considered it + quite possible that the peasants would raise the country for some distance + round and try to take vengeance for the loss they had suffered. When Paolo + took some supper round to the two ladies, he returned with a message that + they hoped Colonel Campbell would join them in their meal. + </p> + <p> + “See that the sentries are on the alert, Mieville,” he said as he got up + from the fire round which he and the three officers were sitting; “you + must remember that these poor fellows are desperate. Of course you and I + know that they can do themselves no good by attacking castles and burning + chateaux, but were we in their place—famished, despairing, and + ignorant—we should doubtless do the same. And although, with men as + well disciplined as ours, there would be little chance of the peasants + overpowering us, they may trust in their numbers, and would believe that + if they could destroy us, the whole country might well rise and join them. + Should there be any sign of trouble, call me instantly.” + </p> + <p> + Two sentries had been placed at the door of the outhouse, and as he + entered Hector said, “Keep good watch, men, and if you hear any noise that + might betoken the approach of a body of men, warn me at once.” + </p> + <p> + “I heard what you said to the sentries, Colonel Campbell; do you think + that there is any danger?” + </p> + <p> + “No danger, I trust, madam, for I am convinced that we could beat off any + number. Still, I do think that there is a possibility of our being + attacked. The peasants know that we are but a company. They may send to + all the villages round and call on them to come and revenge those who have + been slain. The people of the hills are strong fellows—wood cutters, + charcoal burners, and shepherds—and there can be no doubt that they + suffer terribly from the enormous taxation. I have seen it on my own + estate in Poitou, and can make every allowance for them. In many cases the + amounts they are adjudged to pay are absolutely greater than their whole + income. They are forced to live upon bread made of bran and sawdust, to + eat acorns and beechnuts; they are gaunt with hunger; they see their + children dying before their eyes. They know not how their sufferings + arise, they only know that they suffer, and in their despair they turn + like hungry wolves against all who are better off than themselves.” + </p> + <p> + “And your people, are they suffering as much as these, monsieur?” + </p> + <p> + “Not quite so much, perhaps, but they are suffering. I have spent but a + fortnight on my estates, of which I have only been master for a year.” + </p> + <p> + “And could you do nothing for them, monsieur?” the girl asked. + </p> + <p> + “I did what I could, mademoiselle. I remitted half their rents, which was + in fact but a small thing, seeing that I knew positively they could not + have paid them. Still it was no doubt some alleviation to know that the + arrears were not being piled up against them. As to the other half, I told + my intendant not to press any whom he thought could not pay, and that if + he drew enough to pay his own salary and the wages of the retainers I + should be content—for my pay as colonel is ample for my own wants.” + </p> + <p> + “You are very young to be a colonel, Monsieur Campbell,” the baroness + said. + </p> + <p> + “Very young; but I have had singularly good fortune, and have been happy + enough to please both Marshal Turenne and the Duc d'Enghien.” + </p> + <p> + “And you have served under them both?” she said in surprise. + </p> + <p> + “I have had that good fortune. I was with Turenne for nearly four years in + Italy, and fought under Enghien at Rocroi, and I may say under both of + them at Freiburg.” + </p> + <p> + “What is the name of your regiment, monsieur?” + </p> + <p> + “The Poitou regiment.” + </p> + <p> + “Indeed!” she exclaimed. “Of course, we have heard all the particulars of + the battle; and it was said that General Merci would have beaten Monsieur + Turenne back had it not been for the Poitou regiment, commanded by a + Scottish colonel, and said to be the finest under the command of the + French generals. They say it stood for three hours against the attacks of + the whole Bavarian army.” + </p> + <p> + “We were in a strong position,” Hector said quietly, “at the mouth of a + defile, so that no more than our own numbers could attack us at once. + However, I am proud of the conduct of my men; none could have fought more + steadily than they did.” + </p> + <p> + “My husband was killed in the battle against Enghien's army on the hill. I + am glad that it was not by your regiment, monsieur.” + </p> + <p> + “I am glad too, madam.” + </p> + <p> + “These wars are terrible, and we of Lorraine—lying between France + and Germany—suffer whichever wins. Fortunately we lie at a distance + from the roads that the armies follow, and therefore have escaped the + devastation caused all along the line of march. Nevertheless we have the + sadness of knowing that in the field neighbours must fight against + neighbours, and kinsmen against kinsmen, for since the duke fled many of + our nobles, seeing that the country has now become part of France, have + joined her, while others, like my husband, followed the duke into Germany. + However, as an Irishwoman it matters little to me now which is the + victor.” + </p> + <p> + “Do you think of returning home, madam?” + </p> + <p> + “As to that, I have not yet made up my mind. The land there is as + distracted as is France by civil war. It is sixteen years since I left + Ireland with my husband, a few months after our marriage. I was an orphan, + and have no near relations to whom I can go, therefore it matters little + to me whether I live in France or Ireland, so that I can see some way of + earning my own living and that of my daughter. With economy, the sale of + the silver would suffice to keep us for three or four years, and long + before that I hope that I shall be able in some way to earn my living.” + </p> + <p> + Hector sat silent for two or three minutes. “It seems to me, madam,” he + said at last, “that it would be better that you should not spend the + proceeds of your silver before looking for a post. I can offer you one at + once, if you will accept it.” + </p> + <p> + “You, monsieur!” she exclaimed in surprise. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, madam. It is bad for the vassals and tenants of a noble—even + though a newly made one, and on an estate of moderate dimensions—when + their lord is absent, and there is none to look after them save an + intendant, whose duty it is to collect as much rent as he is able. Such is + the position of my tenants. I am a soldier, and must perforce be absent. + What I need greatly is someone who will fill my place in this respect. I + have an old friend who is captain of the garrison, and sees to all things + in the household; I have an intendant, I believe a worthy young man, who + collects my rents and looks to the feeding and needs of the servants and + garrison; but I need someone who would interest herself actively in the + condition of my tenants, who would be a friend to them in sickness, would + give aid from my purse to those who really need it, would send food to the + starving, and aid my intendant by advising him as to who are worthy of + relief and who are suffering from their own idleness or thriftlessness—who + will, in short, act as I would have my wife act had I one. + </p> + <p> + “Now, madame la baronne if you will honour me by making my home yours so + long as I am away at the wars, which may last, for aught I know, for years + yet, you will be conferring a great favour upon me. You will have your own + suite of apartments, where your meals will be served to you. You will have + horses to ride. You will relieve my intendant of the necessity of seeing + that the servants perform their duties, and give him more time to devote + himself to the business of the estate, and will in fact act as chatelaine, + save only in matters connected with the garrison in the defence of the + castle.” + </p> + <p> + “Your offer is kind in the extreme, Colonel Campbell, but I could not + accept it,” she said. “You are only inventing such an office in order to + give a home to me and Norah.” + </p> + <p> + “I can assure you, madam, that the thought is not a new one to me—I + have often wished that there was a lady in the castle. One who would see + after the wives and families of the vassals; and I should feel myself + under a real obligation to you if you would fill the place. You see, + madam, it would cost me nothing, for food and drink there is in abundance. + I have two splendid horses, given me by the Duc d'Enghien, standing idle + in their stalls. I shall be happy in knowing that my tenants would be well + looked after, and shall be glad indeed that you and your daughter, my + countrywomen, should, for the present at any rate, have a home.” + </p> + <p> + The tears were streaming down the lady's face. + </p> + <p> + “Accept, mother,” the girl said, putting her hand on her shoulder. “Surely + God sent this gentleman to our rescue when we were very near death. Why + should we not accept this fresh kindness at his hands?” + </p> + <p> + Her mother looked up. “My daughter has chosen for me, Colonel Campbell. I + accept your offer with the deepest thankfulness. Were I to refuse now, the + time might come when I should be reduced to such straits that for my + daughter's sake I should bitterly regret that I had refused your generous + offer; therefore I accept it, and thank you from the bottom of my heart.” + </p> + <p> + “I do not wish you to see it in that light,” he said with a smile. “At + best it is but an arrangement for our mutual advantage, and I, on my part, + thank you and mademoiselle most heartily for falling in with my wishes.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0015" id="link2HCH0015"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XV: THE BATTLE OF MARIENTHAL + </h2> + <p> + The decision had scarcely been made when one of the lieutenants ran in. + “Captain Mieville requests me to state that sounds have been heard in the + forest, and that he believes there is a large body of men approaching.” + </p> + <p> + “Then, ladies, I must beg you to mount the stairs to the turret at once. I + will place six men on guard there. The main body I must keep in front of + the chateau, as that affords a protection to our rear. Do not be alarmed. + I do not think the place is likely to be attacked; but should it be, the + six men could hold it for any time. As soon as I have beaten the main body + I will at once attack those who may be assailing the turret, though I + hardly think that they will do so, for they know that there is nothing to + be obtained that would in any way repay them for the loss that they would + suffer. They are marching here for the purpose of attacking us.” + </p> + <p> + He called to the two sentries. + </p> + <p> + “See the ladies up the stairs to the turret, and take up your post on the + lower stairs. Four more men shall join you at once.” + </p> + <p> + He found that Mieville had already got all the men under arms, and had + ranged them between the bivouac fires and the still glowing chateau. + </p> + <p> + “Move your men along farther, Mieville. Let your left flank rest on the + angle of the old castle, then we shall not be made anxious by another + attack on the turret. Let the right flank rest upon the chateau where the + old castle joins it. We shall then be in darkness, while the assailants, + if they come from that side, will have to cross the ground lit up by the + glow from the ruins. Let the centre of the line be some ten yards in front + of the building; let the line be two deep.” + </p> + <p> + As soon as this disposition was made he called down the six men, as they + were no longer required to defend the staircase. + </p> + <p> + “Now, men,” he said when all were formed up, “I need not admonish soldiers + who were so firm under the attack of the whole of the Bavarian army of the + necessity for steadiness. I have no doubt that if we are attacked it will + be in considerable force; but it will be by half armed peasants, and there + probably will not be a gun among them. But even peasants, when worked up + into a state of excitement are not to be despised. My orders are: The + front rank shall continue firing until they are close at hand, and shall + then fix bayonets. Until this is done the second line are not to fire a + shot; but as soon as the front rank are ready to repel the enemy with + fixed bayonets, you will begin. Don't throw a shot away, but continue + loading and firing, as quickly as you can; and unless very closely + pressed, let no man empty his musket until his comrade on the right has + reloaded, so that there will always be some shots in reserve. Should they + rush on in spite of the fire, I shall give the order, 'Empty your muskets + and fix bayonets,' and we will then charge them. Hunter, you and your + three comrades and Paolo will keep close to me, and if we find the men + wavering at any point we will go to their assistance. If, however, we + charge, remember that you six men I told off to guard the turret are at + once to pass through the gates and take up your post on the steps, for + some of them may slip in behind us and endeavour to rush up.” + </p> + <p> + The horses, that had been turned loose when Hector and the troopers + mounted the steps, had been seized by the peasants, and tied up to some + trees close by when the latter began to feast. They had been recovered + when the insurgents were scattered by Mieville's company and had then been + placed in the courtyard of the castle. As soon as the alarm was given, + Hector, the four troopers, and Paolo had mounted. The three officers were + also on horseback. + </p> + <p> + “In case the company charges, Mieville,” he said, “we nine mounted men can + cover the rear and charge any of the insurgents who try to rush in and + take them in the rear. I hope that we shall keep them off with our + musketry fire; but I don't disguise from myself that if they fall upon us + at close quarters we shall have to fight hard. Ah, here they come!” + </p> + <p> + Suddenly in the darkness from the other side of the chateau a great crowd + of men poured out, shouting and yelling furiously, and brandishing their + rough weapons, which shone blood red in the glow of the fire in the ruins. + Someone had evidently been placed on the watch, and had told them where + the troops had taken up their post, for they came on without hesitation, + bearing outwards until they faced the centre of the line, at a distance of + fifty yards; then one of the men, who appeared to be the leader, shouted + an order, and they rushed impetuously forward. The front line at once + opened fire. Many of the peasants dropped, while the others hesitated a + little, and so gave the men who had first fired time to reload; but, urged + on by the shouts of their leaders, the peasants again rushed forward. + </p> + <p> + “Fire a volley, and then fix bayonets!” Hector shouted. The fifty muskets + flashed out, and as the peasants were but fifteen yards away every shot + told, and their front rank was completely swept away. + </p> + <p> + “Every other man in the second line fire!” Hector ordered, and twenty-five + shots added to the confusion among the peasants. The slaughter, however, + only had the effect of maddening the great crowd, who numbered upwards of + two thousand, and with a howl of fury they rushed forward again. Hector + waited until they almost touched the row of bayonets, and then gave the + order for the remaining men to fire and all to fix bayonets. The instant + this was done he shouted “Charge!” for he saw that while standing quiet + his men were no match for the peasants, whose long poles with the scythes + at the end gave them great advantage over the shorter weapons of the + soldiers. With a cheer the latter threw themselves upon their opponents, + their close formation and more handy weapons depriving their enemies of + this advantage. Thrusting and overthrowing all in front of them, the line + burst its way through the mob, the little party of cavalry charging + furiously whenever the peasants endeavoured to fall upon their rear, and + the latter, boldly as they fought against the infantry, shrank back before + the flashing swords and the weight of horses and riders. + </p> + <p> + As soon as they had passed through the crowd Hector gave the order for his + troops to face about, and they again burst their way through the mob that + had closed in behind them. Four times was the manoeuvre repeated, the + resistance growing fainter each time, as the peasants found themselves + unable to withstand the charge of the disciplined troops. When for the + fifth time they reached the gate of the castle the crowd no longer pressed + upon their rear, but stood hesitatingly some fifty yards away. Hector took + advantage of the pause, and ordered his men, who were panting from their + exertions, to load again. He formed them in single line now. + </p> + <p> + “Don't fire a shot until I give the word,” he said; “then pour in your + volley, fix bayonets instantly, and charge.” + </p> + <p> + Standing in the shade as they did, the movement of loading was unobserved + by the peasants, who, as they saw the line again advancing, prepared to + meet them, but gave a yell of surprise when a terrible volley was poured + into them at a distance of twenty yards. Then, before they had recovered + from their surprise, the long line was upon them with levelled bayonets. + Only a few stood their ground. These were instantly overthrown. The rest, + throwing away their weapons, fled in all directions. + </p> + <p> + “Thank God that is over!” Hector said, as he told the troops to halt and + reload. “If they had all been as courageous as their leader they would + have annihilated us, but each time we charged I observed that a + considerable number fell away on either flank, so that it was not a solid + mass through which we had to make our way. What is our loss, Mieville?” + </p> + <p> + “I rode along the line and counted the numbers. There are but seventy-five + on foot,” he said, “and most of these have got more or less severe wounds + with their ugly weapons.” + </p> + <p> + “Let the ground over which we have passed be carefully searched,” he said, + “and any of our men who show signs of life be carried in front of the + chateau.” + </p> + <p> + Twelve men were found to be living; their wounds were at once attended to + and bandaged. + </p> + <p> + “I think most of them will do,” Captain Mieville said. “They are ugly + looking gashes, but it is not like a bullet in the body.” + </p> + <p> + The men who had been killed were found in most cases to have been slain + outright from the blows of hatchets, which had in several cases completely + severed their heads. While the wounds of the soldiers were being attended + to, Hector went to the gate at which the baroness and her daughter were + now standing. + </p> + <p> + “You are unhurt, I hope,” the lady said as Hector approached. + </p> + <p> + “I have two or three more wounds,” he said, “but, like those I had before, + they are of little account.” + </p> + <p> + “It was a terrible fight,” she said. “We watched it from the top of the + turret, and it seemed to us that you were lost each time you plunged into + the crowd, you were so few among such numbers. Have you lost any men?” + </p> + <p> + “We have only had thirteen killed outright,” he said. “Twelve more are + very seriously wounded, but I think most of them will recover. As to the + rest of the company, I fancy that most of them will require some + bandaging. And now I shall recommend you and your daughter to return to + your shelter. I have no fear whatever of their coming back again.” + </p> + <p> + “That we cannot do,” she said firmly. “It is our duty to do what we can to + aid those who have fought so bravely.” + </p> + <p> + “The men are now attending to each other's wounds,” Hector said. “Every + man in my regiment carries, by my orders, a couple of bandages. We found + them most useful at Freiburg, and many a life was saved that would have + been lost but for their use; but if you insist upon doing anything, I + would ask you to carry wine and water round. The troopers will draw the + water for you from the well in the courtyard here.” + </p> + <p> + “That we will do willingly,” she said. + </p> + <p> + For the next two hours the ladies were busy at work, moving among the men + and supplying them with refreshments. Not until all their wants were amply + supplied did they retire. + </p> + <p> + In the morning Hector said: “Now, Madame de Blenfoix, I have been thinking + the matter over, and consider that it would be a wholly unnecessary + journey and a loss of four days were you to travel to Nancy with us. You + are only ten days' journey from Poitou, and I should advise you to start + at once. My man, Paolo, and two of the troopers will accompany you as an + escort. Your road will lead through Orleans, which will be almost halfway, + and you will also pass through Tours. At both these towns you can, if you + will, stay for a day to rest. I will ride down with you into Blenfoix, + where I shall be able to get paper and pens, and will write letters to + Captain MacIntosh and to my intendant explaining exactly the position that + you will occupy. One of the troopers will ride forward with these from + your last halting place before you arrive there, in order that you may + find everything prepared and be received properly on your arrival. Do you + both ride, or would you rather have a pillion's place behind the + troopers?” + </p> + <p> + “We both ride,” she said; “but I should prefer, on a journey like this, + that my daughter should ride behind me on a pillion. You are altogether + too good, Colonel Campbell. You are heaping kindnesses upon us.” + </p> + <p> + “Not at all, madam. And now you will doubtless be glad to hear that in + searching round the place this morning, we have discovered that two of + your horses that had doubtless been turned loose by the peasants have + found their way back. No difficulty will therefore arise on that score. + The saddles are hanging from the beams in the stable, so that everything + is in readiness for your departure.” + </p> + <p> + A quarter of an hour later the whole party left the ruined chateau, the + troops taking their way to the point at which they had left the road, + while Hector with his four troopers and Paolo rode down into Blenfoix with + the ladies. Here the baroness purchased a few necessaries for the journey + while Hector was writing his letters. Hunter and Macpherson were to form + their escort, and were by turns to lead the spare horse, which on + alternate days was to carry the double burden. Paolo carried the purse, + which contained a sum ample for the expenses of the journey. When all was + ready the adieus were said, and the baroness repeated the heartfelt thanks + of her daughter and herself for the kindness shown them. Paolo took his + place beside the ladies, the two troopers fell in behind, and they started + west, while Hector with the other two troopers galloped off to overtake + his company. + </p> + <p> + At Joinville they found that de Thiou's company had just marched in, but + it was not until the next day that the other two returned. All had met + with scattered bodies of peasants, but these had dispersed as soon as the + troops were seen, and there had been no actual fighting except with the + parties Hector had met. The bodies of the soldiers that had fallen were + buried near the chateau. Those of the peasants were left where they lay, + and would doubtless be carried off by their friends as soon as the latter + knew that the troops had left. The lesson had been a severe one indeed, + upwards of two hundred and eighty being killed in the two encounters. The + insurgents were completely disheartened by their loss, and during the rest + of the winter the aid of the troops was not again called for. + </p> + <p> + As soon as spring set in, the Poitou regiment marched to join the marshal. + The Bavarian army had been weakened by the withdrawal of four thousand men + to aid the Imperialists, who had been defeated by the Swedes in Bohemia. + Turenne, on hearing the news, at once prepared to take advantage of it, + crossed the Rhine on a bridge of boats at Spires, and passed the Neckar, + General Merci retiring before him. Stuttgart opened its gates, and Turenne + established himself at Marienthal on the river Tauber. Merci, as he fell + back, had caused a rumour to be spread that he was making for the Danube. + </p> + <p> + There was a great scarcity of forage in the country round Marienthal, and + the officers of the cavalry strongly urged upon Turenne that they should + divide and take up stations at various points where they could obtain food + for their animals, which were much exhausted by their long and heavy + marches. Turenne for some time resisted their entreaties, but at last, + seeing that the cavalry would speedily be ruined unless they could obtain + food, permitted this course to be taken. Before allowing them to leave, + however, he sent parties of horse forward in various directions to + discover what the enemy were doing. These returned with the news that the + Bavarian army had broken up, and was fortifying itself in the towns among + which it had been divided. Turenne, however, was still apprehensive. He + kept his cannon and the greater part of the infantry with him, and also + General Rosen with a portion of his horse, and refused to let the rest of + the cavalry go farther than three leagues from the army. He himself rode + out with a regiment of cavalry some ten miles beyond Marienthal, along the + road by which the Imperialists would advance were they to assemble to + attack him. + </p> + <p> + At two o'clock the next morning a party he had sent to watch the Bavarians + brought in the news that Merci was advancing with all his force. Rosen was + ordered to hurry forward to the spot where the advanced division was + lying. Messengers were sent off in all directions to recall the scattered + cavalry, and having seen that everything had been done to place affairs in + a better position, Turenne rode off with what troops he could gather to + aid Rosen. The latter had made a serious blunder. In front of the position + held by the advanced division was a large wood, through which the + Bavarians must pass. Instead of taking possession of this and holding it + until reinforcements came up, he fell back, drew up his troops on the + plain, and allowed the Bavarians to occupy the wood without resistance. + With the troops which arrived with him, the marshal had now under him some + three thousand infantry and seven regiments of horse. He placed his + infantry on his right with two squadrons to support them; with the rest of + his cavalry, he formed his left wing. + </p> + <p> + He himself took the command here. Rosen commanded on the right. Merci, + after passing through the wood, drew up his army in order of battle and + opened fire on the French. The artillery, however, in no way shook their + firmness, and seeing more troops in the distance advancing to reinforce + them, Merci began the battle by an attack on a little wood on which the + French right rested; while at the same time Turenne charged the Bavarian + right wing with his cavalry, broke it up, and captured the cannon and + twelve standards. But while on this side the victory was almost won, on + the other side disaster had befallen the French. Their infantry, + perceiving that the Bavarians, who were advancing to attack them, were + much superior in force, were seized with a panic and scattered in all + directions. The left wing of the Bavarians advanced rapidly, and, throwing + themselves behind Turenne's wing, prepared to fall upon him in the rear. + </p> + <p> + Turenne ordered his cavalry to retire, and passing through the wood found + beyond it three regiments that had just arrived. These with the fifteen + hundred horse that had been with him in the battle placed him in a + position to make a vigorous defence, but the Bavarians did not venture to + attack him. He now sent an officer to rally the scattered infantry, and + gave orders that they should at once retreat without a stop to + Philippsburg, a distance of seventy miles. He himself with his cavalry + started for Hesse, whose landgravine was in alliance with France. With two + regiments he covered the retreat, and so enabled the rest of the cavalry + as they came up from their distant quarters to cross the Tauber. This was + a bold and successful movement, for had he fallen back with his infantry + to Philippsburg the enemy would have possessed themselves of all the towns + he had captured, whereas they could not now advance without exposing their + line of communication to his attack. + </p> + <p> + The Poitou regiment had, when Turenne advanced to Marienthal, been left at + a town some four leagues away. A messenger reached Hector from Turenne + with a note scribbled in pencil:— + </p> + <p> + We have been beaten. The infantry behaved shamefully, and are hastening, a + crowd of stragglers, towards Philippsburg. I shall retire along the Tauber + with the cavalry and make for Hesse, do you march with all speed for that + river. If as you approach the river you hear that we have already passed, + do you direct your march to Hesse. I leave the choice of route to you, and + you must be guided by circumstances. At any rate you are unlikely to be + attacked except by cavalry, and these, if not in too great numbers, you + may be trusted to beat off. + </p> + <p> + Ten minutes after the receipt of this order the regiment was on the march. + They arrived on the Tauber just in time, for a quarter of an hour after + they had piled arms, after a tremendous march, the cavalry came along. + They were in scattered parties, for the roads were terribly bad, and they + were obliged to break up and make their way as best they could by mere + tracks across the rocky and hilly country. Turenne himself, when he + arrived, had but twenty horsemen with him. + </p> + <p> + “I hardly expected you to be up in time, Campbell,” he said, as he + dismounted. “Your men must have marched well indeed. As you see, though + unbeaten, for we on our side defeated the enemy's horse, we are as much + dispersed as if we had suffered a disaster. I am trying to cover the + retreat with two regiments of cavalry that were not engaged in the battle. + Half an hour since we charged and drove back in confusion a party of + Bavarian horse, but they formed up again. The main body is ahead, but is + as scattered as we are, for besides the difficulty of keeping together on + these horrible roads, it is necessary that we should occupy every track by + which the enemy's horse could move, or they might get in front of us and + play havoc with us. + </p> + <p> + “You will have to march all night, and I should advise you to break up + your command into half companies, with orders to each to attach themselves + as far as possible to such parties of my two regiments of cavalry as they + may come across. We shall not proceed at any great pace, as we must give + time for the troops ahead of us to get clear. The horses are utterly worn + out, being half starved and fatigued with their march. So far we know not + whether the whole of the Bavarian cavalry is behind us, but it is probable + that one of their two divisions is pursuing the infantry. I wish you had + been there with them. In the first place your example would have prevented + their breaking, and in the second you could have covered their retreat. As + it is, I fear that but few of the three thousand who were with me will + reach Philippsburg. I shall be glad if you yourself will remain near me. + If your regiment were going to keep together I would not take you from + them, but being broken up into fragments, you could exercise no + supervision over them in the darkness.” + </p> + <p> + Hector at once called the officers together, and gave them the necessary + orders. “You understand,” he said, “that your main object is not so much + to save yourselves, though that is most important, but to enable the + cavalry to beat back the Bavarian horse.” + </p> + <p> + It was a terrible march; both horse and foot made their way along with + difficulty through the darkness. Men and horses were alike fatigued, and + the cavalry for the most part dismounted and led their animals along. + There were several sharp fights with bodies of the enemy, who, ignorant of + the line by which the French were retreating, feared to press the + rearguard too close, lest they should find them in very superior numbers. + Once, when they passed a lane running down to the river, Turenne—who + had taken every opportunity of making his way across the line of retreat + and seeing how all was going on—said to Hector, “Will you ride up + here, Campbell, and cheer up any parties you may come across. Tell them + that all is going on well, and that by morning we shall find that the + enemy have given up the pursuit, and shall be able to halt and take a few + hours' rest, and give battle should the enemy come up in force. Their + horses must be as fatigued as ours, for they must have been marching for + eight or ten hours since the morning.” + </p> + <p> + Hector had only Paolo now with him, having appointed the four troopers to + go with different parties of the infantry, and to act as orderlies to + their captains. He rode rapidly up the lane, and presently heard the + cavalry passing across it. + </p> + <p> + “There is one party, Paolo,” he said, urging his horse into a gallop. In + two or three minutes he came up with the column of horse. + </p> + <p> + “Where is your officer?” he asked, drawing rein as he reached them. + </p> + <p> + “Seize him!” a voice cried in German, and before he and Paolo could turn + their horses half a dozen troopers were upon them. + </p> + <p> + “I surrender,” he cried in German, seeing that resistance was impossible. + </p> + <p> + “Who are you, monsieur?” an officer demanded. + </p> + <p> + “I am colonel of the Poitou regiment of infantry,” he said. “This man is + my lackey.” + </p> + <p> + “Where are your cavalry, sir?” + </p> + <p> + “That I cannot tell you exactly, seeing that no one knows. I thought that + you formed part of our rearguard.” + </p> + <p> + “How comes it that you, an infantry officer, were there? We heard that + there were no infantry with them.” + </p> + <p> + “We joined them just before nightfall, and were at once divided up among + the various regiments of horse.” + </p> + <p> + “I must inform our colonel of that. Come along with me,” and they pushed + past the troopers until they arrived at the head of the column, when the + officer reported to the colonel. + </p> + <p> + “Donner Blitzen!” the latter exclaimed, “it is well that we learned this + news, for we should have fared very ill if we had come upon horse and foot + together. The Poitou regiment! That is the one that we heard beat back our + charges so often at Freiburg, and they say the best regiment in the French + service. It is no use our going farther; we might well fall into an + ambush, and in these lanes they could shoot us down helplessly. We will + move on quietly until we get to a place where there is space enough for us + to dismount and bivouac. We could not have gone many more miles, for if we + did we should be a regiment without horses tomorrow morning.” + </p> + <p> + They proceeded very slowly and cautiously until, when they came upon an + open tract of ground, the colonel ordered them to dismount and sound the + trumpets. His regiment, like those of Turenne, had been broken up, and he + had but half a squadron with him. In an hour the whole regiment was + assembled; a few fires were lighted, but most of the men threw themselves + down by their horses and at once went off to sleep. The colonel and his + officers sat down at one of the fires, where Hector was requested to join + them. + </p> + <p> + “I suppose that your regiment took no part in the battle?” + </p> + <p> + “No, sir; we were some way from Marienthal, and I received orders only + after the day was lost, to join Marshal Turenne and his cavalry on the + Tauber. We arrived on the river just at sunset, having marched ten leagues + in eight hours. I regret bitterly that my regiment was not on the field, + for assuredly they would not have given way. Had they stood, the rest of + the infantry would have stood.” + </p> + <p> + “And in that case you would now be the pursuers,” the colonel broke in, + “for Turenne completely shattered our right wing. Well, sir, it is the + fortune of war, and we at least have the honour of having given your + marshal a defeat. He is a grand general, but we caught him napping today.” + </p> + <p> + “It was not his fault, sir. General Rosen and his officers insisted so + strongly that unless they were allowed to move off in search of forage, + the whole army would be disabled by the loss of their horses by hunger, + that he was almost forced to comply with their request.” + </p> + <p> + “But, even so, he made a mistake,” the colonel said. “If instead of + marching to meet us in front of Marienthal he had fallen back directly he + had the news of our coming, he could have been joined by all his detached + troops before we came up with him.” + </p> + <p> + “He said as much to me tonight,” Hector replied; “but even the greatest + generals are liable to make a mistake sometimes. And, indeed, had General + Rosen with the advanced division held the wood in front of them, instead + of retiring on to the plain, they should have been able to keep you at bay + until all our troops came up.” + </p> + <p> + “Undoubtedly that was a terrible blunder on his part,” the colonel said, + “and he rather than Turenne is to blame. And now, sir, may I ask how is it + that you, who cannot be more than twenty, come to be a colonel, and in + command of a regiment?” + </p> + <p> + “I have been five years an officer, and was fortunate on two occasions to + obtain the approval, once of Monsieur de Turenne, and once of the Duc + d'Enghien.” + </p> + <p> + “I congratulate you, sir. It is seldom indeed that so young an officer has + opportunities of distinguishing himself. I myself had seen well nigh + thirty years service before I came to command a regiment. And now, sir, + will you give me your parole not to attempt to escape?” + </p> + <p> + “Certainly, sir,” Hector replied promptly. He knew that should he refuse + four or five troopers would be set to watch him, and even if he evaded + these, which was well nigh impossible, he might be recaptured on the + following morning, as detachments of the Bavarian horse would be sure to + be pressing hard upon Turenne's troops. The pursuit was indeed taken up + again during the night, but Turenne succeeded in keeping his pursuers at + bay, and reaching the frontiers of Hesse. There he found the infantry and + cavalry who had not been engaged already assembled, for they had received + orders to march instantly to that spot. He had now with him some four + thousand horse and two thousand foot, and was joined by six thousand + troops from Hesse and four thousand Swedes. He was thus soon in a position + to advance with a much stronger force than that which he commanded before + the battle of Marienthal. + </p> + <p> + The Bavarian cavalry that had followed him rejoined General Merci at + Kirchheim. Hector was with Paolo taken to that place, and upon his refusal + to continue his parole, was confined in a prison there, Paolo being + allowed at his request to remain with him. He had had an interview with + General Merci, who had treated him with much courtesy; for there were + Scotch and Irish officers serving in the Imperial army as well as in that + of France, and they were held in high esteem for their courage and daring. + </p> + <p> + The battle of Marienthal was fought on the 2nd of May, and it was late in + July before any fresh movements took place. Turenne would willingly have + advanced with his army, but his movements were arrested by a peremptory + order from Paris, sent on receipt of the news of the defeat, that he was + not to take the offensive until joined by Enghien, who had with him a + force of eight thousand men. He therefore marched to join the + reinforcements, and the two armies met at Spires on the 2nd of July. As + before, Enghien was in supreme command, with de Gramont as his lieutenant + general. Long conferences took place between these generals: Turenne, + General Geis, who commanded the Hessians, and Konigsmark, who commanded + the Swedes. The Bavarians were known to be very strongly posted, and to + have been reinforced by four thousand Imperialists under the command of + General Geis. + </p> + <p> + There was much difference of opinion between them as to the best course to + be pursued, but Enghien, who was always in favour of great battles, + finally determined so to place the army that the enemy would be forced to + come out and fight. He therefore marched to Venecher, captured Wimpfen, + and threw a bridge across the river, whereupon General Merci fell back + twenty leagues into Franconia. As soon as they had passed the river an + occurrence took place that threatened to overthrow all the plans of the + campaign. Some hasty words spoken by Enghien so angered the Generals Geis + and Konigsmark that they determined to retire at once with the Swedes and + Hessians. Turenne was requested by Enghien to endeavour to arrange + matters, and by his kind and gentle manner succeeded in conciliating Geis, + who consented to remain with the Hessians. Konigsmark, however, as hot + tempered as Enghien himself, refused to do so, and with his whole force + retired to Bremen, in Lower Saxony. + </p> + <p> + The French and Hessians marched towards the Tauber, captured Rothenburg + and other towns, and thereby obtained a large quantity of provisions and + stores; and hearing that the Bavarians were advancing to Nordlingen, + marched in all haste to give them battle there. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0016" id="link2HCH0016"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XVI: AN ESCAPE + </h2> + <p> + After being confined for a week in the prison at Kirchheim Hector was sent + with a number of other prisoners to Ingolstadt. Here he was confined in + the castle, a separate room being allotted to him in recognition of his + rank, and Paolo was, at his request, allowed to remain with him. + </p> + <p> + “I cannot but think, master, that we should have done better if you had + given your parole not to try to escape. In that case we might have had + comfortable quarters in the town instead of this somewhat bare chamber. If + there had been a chance of escape it would have been different, but seeing + the strength of the castle, methinks there is no prospect whatever of our + being able to get out.” + </p> + <p> + “That remains to be seen, Paolo. I fancy there is always a chance of + escape if one does but hit upon the right way. At present we know nothing + of the castle or the vigilance of the guard, and no doubt it will take us + some little time to find these matters out. The first thing we require is + patience. No doubt they will allow me out to take exercise, and like + enough, if I give my word that you will return every day at a certain + hour, they will allow you to go in to the town, seeing that you can + scarcely be called a prisoner, having no military rank or position, but + being in their eyes only a lackey. If they will do that it will be a great + step gained, for you will be able to bring in anything that we may + require. However, I will not ask that you should be permitted to go in and + out for some little time. + </p> + <p> + “Lose no opportunity of making yourself friendly with some of the + soldiers, and if the chance should occur, be useful to any of the + officers. The commandant is evidently disposed to be civil, and says that + he will grant me any indulgence in his power short of passing the gates of + the castle. I have no doubt that when the campaign is over and the army + has gone into winter quarters Turenne will offer to exchange some + prisoners of the same rank for me. But I have no wish to be cooped up here + when perhaps a great battle may be fought. As far as I can see, the + difficulty will not be so much in getting out of the castle, but out of + the town itself, for this is one of the most strongly fortified places in + the empire. One reason why I want you to go into the town is that you may + be able to obtain shelter there for us should we find, as I expect we + shall, that it is impossible for us to escape from the citadel and town at + the same attempt.” + </p> + <p> + The place was indeed so strong that but a careless watch was kept over the + prisoners in the castle. The soldiers were confined to their quarters save + that they were allowed for an hour a day to take exercise in the + courtyard, a company of troops being kept under arms while they were out; + but the officers were free at all times to wander about. Hector was soon + on friendly terms with many of the officers of the garrison, as in his + case there was none of the hostile feeling with which the French officers + were regarded. His youth, and the singularity of his having so soon + attained the rank of colonel, also predisposed them in his favour. It was + evident that this young soldier of fortune, unsupported by powerful family + interest, must have distinguished himself in an altogether exceptional + manner to have obtained the command of one of the best regiments of + France. + </p> + <p> + Paolo was as popular among the sergeants and men as his master was with + the officers. As an Italian, and as Hector's lackey, he was not regarded + as a prisoner of war; and by his unfailing good humour, his readiness to + enter into any fun that might be going on, or to lend a hand in cleaning + accoutrements or completing a job that a soldier had left unfinished when + his turn came for duty, he became quite a popular character. The colonel + who commanded frequently walked with Hector in the courtyard, sent him + dishes from his own table, and more than once invited him to dine with + him. As he was very curious to learn how his young prisoner had so early + attained his rank, Hector one evening gave him a sketch of his career, + from the time when Turenne gave him his commission to that at which he was + taken prisoner, omitting only the incident of the attempt to assassinate + Mazarin. + </p> + <p> + “You have certainly been fortunate,” he said, “but it is equally certain + that you have deserved it. The fact that, in addition to your military + duties, you have learned Italian and German, besides transforming a newly + raised regiment into one of the best in the French service, shows how + assiduous you have been in your work. I trust that when the campaign is + over you may be exchanged, and I think it is foolish of you not to give me + your parole, for you must know well that you have no chance of escape from + here.” + </p> + <p> + “They say everything comes to those who wait, colonel,” Hector laughed, + “and if I see a chance I shall certainly avail myself of it. Even if no + such chance comes I shall still be a gainer by not giving my parole. I am + exceedingly comfortable as it is, and can wish for nothing better. The one + drawback is that I have nothing to do, except perhaps to improve my + German, and it would be just the same if I were living in the town. But if + I were on my parole I should lose the amusement of planning methods for + escape, which I do unceasingly; but up till now, I may tell you in + confidence, I am as far from having hit upon a plan as I was when I + entered. By the way, colonel, although it is clear that I cannot be + allowed to go outside the castle gate, I should be glad if my lackey could + be given leave to do so. He is not a soldier, neither is he a Frenchman, + and can scarce be counted as a prisoner of war. He is a willing and + cheerful fellow, and would enjoy a run in the city much more than I + should. Besides, occasionally I may want a book or some other little thing + which I cannot get here.” + </p> + <p> + “Such as a file, a rope, or a disguise, Colonel Campbell,” the commandant + laughed. + </p> + <p> + “I am not thinking of that at present,” Hector said smiling. “Besides, you + can give orders that he can always be strictly searched when he comes in.” + </p> + <p> + The colonel shook his head. “I will tell you what I will do,” he said; “I + will let him have a pass to go in and out at will, if you will give me a + promise, on your honour as a soldier, that he shall not bring in anything + that can be used by you for facilitating your escape. I would much rather + trust to your word than to any search the soldiers might make as your man + comes in.” + </p> + <p> + “Thank you, colonel,” Hector said cheerfully, though at heart he felt + considerably disappointed. “I give you my word of honour that he shall + bring in nothing that may aid me in making my escape, and I am much + obliged to you for letting him have the run of the town.” + </p> + <p> + The colonel at once wrote a pass authorizing Paolo Monti, lackey to + Colonel Campbell, to enter and leave the castle at all times when the + gates were open. + </p> + <p> + Paolo laughed when Hector told him the conditions on which the pass was + granted. + </p> + <p> + “The commandant is a shrewd fellow, master, but he is not quite shrewd + enough; he forgot that though I may bring in nothing myself I may be able + to arrange with someone else to bring something in.” + </p> + <p> + “That flashed through my mind at once, Paolo; but at present neither file, + rope, nor disguise would be of any use. However, they may be so later. The + first thing for you to do when you get this pass will be to make yourself + master of the plan of the town and the fortifications, and see if there is + any place where you think an escape is possible. But even when you find + one, and you think that it might be managed, you must afterwards find a + place where I can be hidden for a time, at any rate for a few hours. You + see, were I to go out in disguise I must do so in broad daylight, for my + supper is served almost directly after the gates are closed; and were I + missing there would be a search for me at once, the sentries on the wall + would all be warned, and it would be impossible to get past them. If I + could get out two or three hours before the gates are closed at nine + o'clock I might, as soon as it became dark, attempt to get over the walls + before the alarm was given, or I might possibly go out in the same + disguise that I left here in, through the city gate and across the + bridge.” + </p> + <p> + “I see that, sir, and it seems to me that this would be easier than trying + to find a hiding place for you in the town. However, I will set my wits to + work. I have been able to think of nothing in here; but one's eyes always + help one's wits, and if I were in the town I might see something that + would give me an idea how the matter might be set about.” + </p> + <p> + Day after day Paolo went into the town, always returning discouraged. + </p> + <p> + “I must be growing a downright numbskull,” he said one evening in disgust; + “I have been three weeks at it and no single idea has come to me.” + </p> + <p> + “You need not be discouraged at that, Paolo; it's not such a simple thing + to plan an escape from a fortress like this as it was to get into the + citadel at Turin, where we also had the advantage of starting with + disguises. I can no more think of a disguise in which I can pass the gates + than you can. I am a good deal too tall to pass as a woman. My face is + perfectly well known to every soldier in the castle, and even if we hit + upon a disguise it would be very difficult to get it brought in. It struck + me today that if I am to get out it must be in some vehicle that has come + in with supplies.” + </p> + <p> + “That is a great idea, master; if I had not been a thick headed fool I + should have thought of that before. But at the same time it will not be + easy to manage.” + </p> + <p> + “I quite see that, Paolo; even if the driver were bought over it would be + difficult indeed to manage to get into the cart with so many soldiers + standing about.” + </p> + <p> + Paolo shook his head. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, I don't see that that could be managed at all, master.” + </p> + <p> + He stood thinking a minute. + </p> + <p> + “I have it!” he exclaimed joyfully. “You know, sir, sometimes a train of + waggons containing faggots, or flour, or other things, comes in late. + Those that are unloaded before the gate is closed go out at once; the + others are unloaded that evening, but the empty carts have to remain in + the castle till morning, as the great gates are never opened between + sunset and sunrise, though officers come in by the postern. Now, if you + could manage during the night to slip into one of the waggons, say one + that has brought in flour, you might be so covered over by the empty sacks + they take out, that no one would dream anyone was hidden there.” + </p> + <p> + “Capital, Paolo! It is evident that your head is not so thick as you + thought it was just now. Yes, I have noticed that as a rule if eight or + ten waggons came in together, the full sacks are carried in, and the same + number of empty ones are placed in one of the carts, being counted as they + are put in. Certainly I could hide myself easily enough if you were there + to assist in arranging the sacks as regularly as before over me. As I do + not generally get up until eight o'clock, and my first meal is not brought + to me till nine, I might be on my way two hours before it was discovered + that I was missing. How would you manage?” + </p> + <p> + “I would get a countryman's suit, master, would go out soon after the + gates were open, find some quiet spot where I should have hidden the + clothes the day before, and slip them on over my own. Then I would join + the carts as they came along. They don't generally begin to harness the + horses up till the gates are open, so that I should get a quarter of an + hour's start of them, and I should go out with them without question, as + it would be thought that I belonged to the party. I should pay for some + beer at the first cabaret we come to, and make signs that I wanted a lift + in a waggon. I must, of course, pretend to be deaf and dumb, as, although + I have picked up a little German since we came into these parts, I could + not possibly pass as a countryman.” + </p> + <p> + “It would be better still, Paolo, for you to put a blister on to your + cheek, then before you join them put a great lump of tow into your mouth, + so as to swell your cheek out almost to bursting point, and then tie a + bandage round your face; you could then by pointing to it make out that + you had so terrible a swelling that you were unable to talk.” + </p> + <p> + “That would be better certainly, master, indeed, it would be a capital + plan. Of course I should get into the waggon in which you were, and + gradually shift the sacks so that you could crawl out. When we smuggled + you in we would try and put in with you a couple of brace of pistols, and + if we were armed with them the carters would not venture to interfere with + us. Of course, master, I should have to get a disguise for you. We could + never be tramping across the country with you dressed as a French + officer.” + </p> + <p> + “Get something that I could put over the clothes I wear. A long frock, + some loose breeches, and rough cloth to wrap round the legs below them, + and of course a pair of countryman's shoes. The best plan would be for you + to stand treat again at a cabaret a few miles out of the town, get them + all in there, then I could slip out of the waggon and throw the sacks back + into their place. Of course you would choose some spot where the cabaret + either stands alone or is at the end of a village, so that there may be no + one standing by, and I could, when I got down, walk quietly back along the + road. You can make signs to them that you live hard by, and would leave + them there; then if there should be any suspicion that I had escaped in + the waggons, and a troop of cavalry were sent in pursuit, the men would be + all able to declare that they had seen nothing of me, and so could give no + clue whatever that would set them on our track. + </p> + <p> + “Well, it is quite settled that we will try that way, but it may be some + time before the opportunity occurs. However, you may as well get the two + disguises and the two brace of pistols, and stow them away somewhere where + they are not likely to be found.” + </p> + <p> + “There are plenty of places where one can do that, master; there is a row + of old trees inside the fortifications, and I warrant that if I cannot + find one with a hollow large enough to stow them away in, I can hide them + in the branches with small chance of their ever being seen.” + </p> + <p> + Another month passed. Paolo made a point of occasionally going out soon + after the gates were open, saying casually that his master had a fancy for + a bottle of better wine with his breakfast, or that he was going to get + some eggs to make an omelette for him. Hector was in no particular hurry, + for the news had come that Turenne with his own troops and those of Hesse + had, with the Swedes, marched away for the Rhine. It was rumoured that + they would be joined by another army, for in no other way could the + Imperialists account for Turenne having retired when he had a force at + least equal to any that Merci could set in the field against him. Hector + saw that at any rate there was no chance of a great battle being fought + just then, and felt, therefore, no impatience to be off. Two or three + times carts with faggots had been unloaded after the gates were closed, + but as they took nothing out, it was impossible for him to conceal himself + in them. + </p> + <p> + At last, to his satisfaction, a number of waggons of flour came in late + one afternoon, and he determined to carry his plan into execution that + night. The storehouses were not in the great court, but in a smaller one + off it. Beyond two soldiers at the gate and a sentry at the commandant's + door, no guards were kept in the courtyards, though a few sentries were + placed upon the walls. Hector had his supper as usual, and Paolo brought + in the news that eight of the waggons had not been unloaded in time to go + out. A fatigue party of soldiers were now completing the work, which would + be finished about nine o'clock. Taking off their boots a little after that + hour they went quietly downstairs, then put them on again and boldly + crossed the courtyard, for the night was so dark that there was no fear of + their figures being perceived. + </p> + <p> + As they entered the inner yard they again took off their boots and walked + up to the carts. In two of these the carters were fast asleep. They passed + on quietly, feeling in each cart for the sacks, and were delighted to find + that they were all placed in the one farthest up the yard, which would + therefore be the last to go out. They were tidily piled in lines side by + side at the forward end of the waggon. They cautiously removed the sacks + of the middle lines; Hector lay down feet foremost, and Paolo laid the + sacks regularly over him till they reached the level of the others. Half a + dozen were doubled and packed neatly in at the end, so as to conceal his + head and prevent its being noticed that any had been taken out. The rest + were distributed evenly, so that the sacks were all as level as before, + and no one would have suspected that they had been disturbed. + </p> + <p> + Paolo then returned to Hector's room. As the double sacks closing the + orifice at his head had not been packed very tightly, enough air entered + for Hector to breathe. He increased the opening somewhat by pressing one + of the sacks a little aside, but left it so that he could readily pull it + into its position in the morning. As soon as Paolo reached the room he + applied a blistering plaster to his cheek and kept it on till he could no + longer bear the pain, then he threw himself down on his pallet. But + neither he nor his master slept much, Hector being kept awake by the heat + and discomfort of his position, and Paolo by the smarting of his cheek. As + soon as it was light the latter rose, and sat impatiently waiting for the + time when the gates would open. Looking into the courtyard, he could see + the troops coming out from their quarters and moving about, then the gates + opened, and, tying a bandage over his cheek, he went down and crossed the + yard. + </p> + <p> + “You are out early,” the sergeant of the guard remarked. + </p> + <p> + He nodded. “I am nigh mad with pain,” he said, pointing to his cheek, “and + I am going to get some salve from an apothecary.” + </p> + <p> + “You seem to be bad indeed,” the sergeant said commiseratingly, “'tis a + terrible inflammation.” + </p> + <p> + Paolo went down to the spot where he had hidden the bundles in the hollow + of a tree. It was an unfrequented place, and slipping his disguise over + his clothes, after putting the pistols in his belt, he took the second + bundle and returned to a street through which waggons leaving the castle + must pass. A few minutes later he saw them coming along. He had already + stuffed his cheek full of tow, and several people, struck with the raw and + swollen appearance of his face, had compassionately asked him what was the + matter. He had simply shaken his head, opened his lips, and pointed to his + clenched teeth, signifying that he could not speak. He fell in with the + waggons as they came along and passed through the gate without question. + When a short distance away from the town he made signs to the driver of + the last waggon, that if he would give him a lift in the cart he would pay + for some drink. The carter nodded and told him to climb up. After they had + gone four miles from the town, they came to a wayside inn. + </p> + <p> + “Now is the time, master, they are all going in to get some drink. There + is no one about.” + </p> + <p> + The waggons all stopped there, for there had been no opportunity for the + drivers to obtain refreshments as they passed through the town. All + therefore sauntered into the inn, their salutations to the host showing + that they were accustomed to stop there. Paolo followed them in, and + putting down the money for a large jug of beer, handed it to the carter, + and, shaking him by the hand, made a motion that he was going no farther. + Then he went back to the end waggon. Hector had already pushed out the + bags in front of him and had with great difficulty crawled out. + </p> + <p> + “It is all right, master, we have a good ten minutes; there is no one + about, but you had better keep below the waggon rails until you have got + your disguise on.” + </p> + <p> + A couple of minutes sufficed for this, then Hector leapt to the ground, + while Paolo replaced the sacks in their position; and then together they + hurried across some twenty yards of broken ground and entered a wood. + </p> + <p> + “That was a capitally managed business, Paolo. Now we have to find our way + across country. We cannot keep by the river, for it turns away to the + south, and would take us far from the point we want to reach. At any rate, + for a day or two we must travel at night, after that I think we can + venture boldly along—for it is not likely that the news that a + prisoner has escaped will travel very far—although no doubt a strict + search will be kept up for a day or two. I think that for today we had + better make our way north, keeping in the woods as much as possible; they + are less likely to search for us in that direction than to the west.” + </p> + <p> + They found that the forest was fully two leagues across, and agreed that + it was unlikely in the extreme that any attempt would be made to search so + extensive an area, where two men could anywhere conceal themselves. Paolo + had on the previous afternoon placed a couple of loaves and some cold meat + in the bundles, and they now sat down by a little stream and ate a hearty + meal, then, crawling into a thick growth of underwood, they lay down to + sleep and did not awaken until the sun was setting. + </p> + <p> + “There must be some country tracks through this forest, Paolo. We cannot + do better than keep along the edge of the stream until we come to one and + then follow it. It is sure, sooner or later, to take us to some small + hamlet, and I can go into a cabaret and get a couple of flasks of wine and + buy enough bread to last us until tomorrow, and perhaps a sausage, they + are not likely to have any other meat in a place of that sort. My German + is good enough to pass muster, and even if it sounds strange to their + ears, they will merely suppose that I have come from a different part of + the country, for the dialects differ greatly from each other.” + </p> + <p> + As soon as it became quite dark they found it impossible to follow the + rough ground, and after one or two falls had to stop. Hector said, “This + won't do, we shall twist an ankle or break a bone if we go on.” + </p> + <p> + “Shall we light a fire, master? I have brought flint and steel with me, + for I knew that we should want it.” + </p> + <p> + “No, it is better to run no risks; there may be a road near for aught we + know, and if anyone passing saw a fire among the trees, he might come to + see who had made it.” + </p> + <p> + “Not he, master; there are too many robbers about, deserters from their + army, or men who have been ruined by the war. You may be sure that if any + belated villager had the courage to go through this forest by night he + would, on seeing a fire, hurry on as fast as his legs would carry him.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, no doubt you are right, Paolo; and though the night is warm enough + the air is damp under this thick covering of leaves, and it will certainly + be more cheerful. We will go a short distance among the trees before we + light it.” + </p> + <p> + Feeling their way—for it was pitch dark in the forest—they + went on until Hector stumbled over a fallen trunk. + </p> + <p> + “This is the best place for a halt,” he said, “for here is wood ready to + hand. This tree has been lying here for years, I can feel that it is quite + rotten.” + </p> + <p> + Paolo set to work—took a handful or two of the crumbling wood, broke + it up into dust, then struck a spark on to the tinder, touched it with a + slow match and inserted this into the little pile of wood; a minute's + blowing and the flames sprang up. He drew out the slow match and putting + his foot upon it placed it in his wallet, then he broke off some more wood + and soon had a blazing fire. + </p> + <p> + “We have enough food left for supper, master, and if I spit some of this + cold meat on the ramrod of one of my pistols and hold it over the fire it + will be all the more tasty. I wish we had those flasks of wine that you + were speaking of. It seems to me that after sleeping for some ten hours we + shall find it hard to go off again for some time, even though neither of + us got any sleep last night. How furious the governor will be when he + finds that you have escaped!” + </p> + <p> + “He is a good fellow,” Hector said, “and save that he will be annoyed—because + he will be blamed for my escape—I do not think he will be sorry that + I have got off. I left a note for him on the table saying that I was about + to make my escape, but that on my honour I had not obtained anything that + would aid me, by your assistance, and that you had never brought anything + into the castle save what you showed on entering to the guards. I should + not like him to think for a moment that I had broken my promise and taken + advantage of his kindness. How does your face feel?” + </p> + <p> + “It is mightily sore, but it does not smart as it did at first. I can tell + you that I was very glad when I was able to slip that great lump of tow + out of my mouth as soon as I entered the forest.” + </p> + <p> + “I don't think in future that you need use so large a wad, Paolo; half + that size will be ample; and of course you need only slip it into your + mouth when we are going through a village, or meet a party likely to + question us. As to your cheek, it will be days before that fiery mark + disappears.” + </p> + <p> + They talked until nearly midnight, and then lay down and slept till four, + by which time day had broken, for it was now the first week in July. After + walking for half an hour along the edge of the wood, they came to a track + issuing out of it. This they followed, and in about two hours saw a + village in front of them. + </p> + <p> + “I will go in and buy the things that we want, Paolo, and do you make a + circuit round it. If the news has reached them of our escape they will + have been told to look for two men; and the entry of a single countryman + will excite no suspicion, for of course no one will know what disguise we + have chosen. + </p> + <p> + “Do not be anxious if I do not come along for half an hour. It will be + more natural that I should call for bread and cheese and beer and eat them + there; then I can say carelessly that I may as well take some with me to + eat later on.” + </p> + <p> + “You are early!” the owner of the cabaret said as Hector entered. + </p> + <p> + “I ought to have been earlier,” he replied in a grumbling voice; “but it + was so late before I reached the other side of the forest, that instead of + passing through it I thought it best to wait till daybreak, for it would + be desperately dark under the trees, and sometimes there are pretty rough + fellows to be met with there; so I slept in a shed until an hour before + daybreak and then started, and I lost no time in getting through it, I can + tell you. What can you give me now?” + </p> + <p> + “The usual thing,” the man said, shrugging his shoulders. “Bread and beer + and black sausage.” + </p> + <p> + “It might be worse,” Hector said as he seated himself. The food was soon + placed before him. He ate a hearty meal. + </p> + <p> + “I have a long way to go,” he said when he had finished, “and as I am + blessed with a good appetite it will not be long before I am hungry again. + I suppose there is no one in the village that sells bread and sausage, so + if you will let me I will buy a whole one from you and a couple of + loaves.” + </p> + <p> + “I will sell them to you willingly enough; but you will come to another + village three miles on.” + </p> + <p> + “I sha'n't be hungry enough by that time,” Hector laughed. “Besides, I + like to choose my own place and time and sit down by the wayside and eat + my meal. One need never go very far without coming upon a stream; and + though I like beer better than water, I can put up with it when there is + nothing stronger to be had.” + </p> + <p> + “Nothing but bread and sausage again, Paolo,” Hector said as he joined his + comrade a quarter of a mile beyond the village. + </p> + <p> + “And good enough too for a hungry man. I have often longed for such a meal + in the days before you took me, in spite of all warning.” + </p> + <p> + “And we have often done no better since, Paolo, when we have been on the + march. Will you start on it now, or wait until we get to a stream?” + </p> + <p> + “I will hold on for a bit, master. This black bread is so hard that it + needs a lot of washing down.” + </p> + <p> + Making several detours to avoid villages, they walked all day, and towards + evening came upon a main road running west. + </p> + <p> + “Unless I am mistaken in the line that I have taken, this must be the road + through Eichstadt. I can see some towers ahead, and I have no doubt that + they are those of the town. There is a bridge there across the Altmuhl. + The river makes a loop at this point, and the road cuts across it to the + northwest to Gunzenhausen, where there is another bridge. From there the + road runs to Hall. Thence we can cross the Neckar, either at Heilbronn or + Neckarsulm, and we are then in our own country, and but a short distance + from either Spires or Philippsburg, where we shall be likely enough to + meet Turenne advancing again, or shall at any rate learn where he is. We + will lie up now and not cross the bridge until it gets dusk.” + </p> + <p> + “I wish we had swords, master.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, but they would not suit our disguises. But when we get into the town + I will buy two woodmen's axes and a couple of the long knives that all the + peasants here carry. I fancy from what I heard when we were at Hall with + Turenne that the country between Eichstadt and there is for the most part + a great forest, and there are rough hills to pass before we get to Hall. + It will be just as well to have some weapons that we can use with effect + if we should come upon any bands of robbers.” + </p> + <p> + “Quite so, master. A good axe is as good as a sword in a rough sort of + fight; but is there not some way we can travel so as to avoid this great + forest that you speak of?” + </p> + <p> + “Not without making a great detour, and that through a country where there + will be bodies of Merci's troops quartered everywhere.” + </p> + <p> + “Very well, master. Then I think that the risk will be less with the + robbers, especially as we have not apparently much worth stealing upon + us.” + </p> + <p> + “Not only apparently, but really, Paolo. Fortunately my purse was pretty + well filled when we were taken prisoners; but we spent a good deal at + Ingoldstadt, principally in buying articles we could have done without, + but which we got in order to give an excuse for your going into the town, + and in these disguises and pistols. However, we shall not, I hope, require + much more outlay; and after getting axes and knives we shall have enough + to pay for our food, such as it is, for some time. However, there is + certainly nothing in our pockets to tempt robbers.” + </p> + <p> + “No, master; but if they searched you they would notice your clothes. They + would show at once that you are a person of quality; and although, as you + left your scarf behind you, they might not know that you are an officer, + they would see that there was a mystery about you.” + </p> + <p> + “That is true, and I think that perhaps it would be as well if both of us + were to take off our own clothes when we get beyond the town tonight, and + go on only in those you got for us. When we rejoin our friends we can get + money and replace them.” + </p> + <p> + “I have money with me, master,” Paolo said. “I have had no occasion to + spend aught for a long time, and have changed my wages as you paid them + into gold, and have forty pistoles sewn up in the waistbelt of my + breeches. I heard you say that it was always a good thing to carry a + certain amount about with one in case of being taken prisoner or laid up + wounded.” + </p> + <p> + “It was a wise precaution, Paolo; but just at the present moment I would + rather that you did not have it about you. However, I do not suppose we + shall be interfered with. You may as well continue to wear your breeches + under those you have outside, but leave your doublet when I change. After + all, if you were to be searched the pistoles would show that we are not + what we seem, unless we could make up some plausible tale as to how we + came possessed of them.” + </p> + <p> + “Oh, we could manage that easily enough, master! There are other ways of + getting pistoles than by earning them.” + </p> + <p> + Thus chatting they had crossed the bridge and were now entering Eichstadt. + Going to a quiet cabaret they ate a hearty meal, and Hector afterwards + bought the axes and knives, and they left the town just before the gates + were closed. They had walked some miles when a thunderstorm, which had for + some time been threatening, broke over them. + </p> + <p> + “We must get some shelter if we can,” Hector said. “I see a light on + ahead. Let us push on and take refuge before we are wet to the skin.” + </p> + <p> + On reaching the house they saw that it was a wayside inn. + </p> + <p> + “We are in luck, Paolo,” Hector said as he lifted the latch. + </p> + <p> + The door, however, was fastened, and on his knocking a voice asked, “Who + is there at this time of night?” + </p> + <p> + “Travellers,” Hector replied. “Come, open the door quickly or we shall be + wet to the skin!” and he emphasized his words by kicking at the door. It + was, however, a minute or two before it was opened, and Hector, who was + becoming furious at this delay, had just taken his axe from his belt and + was about to break the door in when it opened, and a man with a torch in + one hand and a sword in the other stood on the threshold. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0017" id="link2HCH0017"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XVII: A ROBBER'S DEN + </h2> + <p> + “What mean you by knocking thus furiously?” the landlord of the little inn + asked angrily. + </p> + <p> + “What mean you by keeping your door shut in the face of travellers on such + a night as this?” Hector replied, even more loudly. “Are honest men to be + kept waiting in the rain while you are taking no steps to let them in?” + </p> + <p> + “How could I tell that you are honest men?” the landlord retorted. + </p> + <p> + “Because if we had not been honest men we should long before this have + battered your door down, as indeed I was just going to do when you opened + it.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, come in,” the landlord said with an evil smile. “Maybe you would + have done better to have passed on.” + </p> + <p> + He showed them into the taproom, where two or three rough men were + sitting. + </p> + <p> + “What did these fellows mean by knocking so loudly?” one of them asked + angrily. + </p> + <p> + “It means,” Hector replied, “that travellers have a right to claim shelter + of an inn; and indeed, inn or no inn, no one would refuse shelter to + travellers on such a night as this is going to be.” And his words were + emphasized by a crash of thunder overhead. + </p> + <p> + “You crow pretty loud, young fellow,” the man growled. + </p> + <p> + “I speak loud because I have right on my side. I desire to quarrel with no + man; but one need indeed be a saint to keep one's temper when one is kept + standing outside a door with the rain coming down in great drops, and + threatening in another minute to come in bucketfuls. It is all the worse + when, as you see, one has a sick comrade with one.” + </p> + <p> + The man spoke in a low voice to the three others seated at the table with + him. “May I ask whither you were journeying when thus caught in the + storm?” he asked in a more civil tone than he had hitherto used. + </p> + <p> + “Certainly you may. We were in haste to get on to Gunzenhausen by morning, + as a friend of ours has work ready for us there. We did not expect this + storm when we left Eichstadt just before the gates closed, and as the + nights are short we thought we would push straight through.” + </p> + <p> + “You are woodmen, I see.” + </p> + <p> + “Ay, woodmen and charcoal burners.” + </p> + <p> + “You are not from this part, at least, judging from your tongue.” + </p> + <p> + “Nor, I fancy, are you,” Hector replied. + </p> + <p> + “No,” the other said. “In times like these every one is liable to be + driven from home either because the troops of one army or another have + plundered and destroyed everything, or perhaps because he has been forced + into the ranks.” + </p> + <p> + “That is just our case, and you will understand that in times like these, + as you say, no one cares to answer questions on the part of strangers. But + we have no particular cause of concealment. We have both been in the army, + and, as you see, have left it, and have our reasons for wishing to travel + at night, when there is no chance of falling in with troops whose officers + might ask inconvenient questions. As, thanks to our host and you, we are + nearly wet through, we will thank him to get ready as quick as may be two + flagons of hot beer, and if he has got a couple of eggs to beat up in each + of them, so much the better.” + </p> + <p> + The landlord left the room, and a minute or two later the man who had + spoken to Hector got up and went out. + </p> + <p> + “These men are up to no good,” Hector whispered to Paolo as they sat down + on a bench at a table some little distance from that at which the other + men were seated. “I am sorry now that I asked for the liquor, it was + necessary to order something. I should not be surprised if they drug it. + Do you put yours to your lips, and then groan as if it hurt you too much + to try to swallow, and leave it standing in front of you. I will pretend + to drink mine, and will manage to pour it away on the floor. Presently do + you lean forward on to the table and appear to fall asleep. As I am in the + corner, I will lean back and seem to go off also. Unless I am greatly + mistaken this is a regular thieves' den. Keep one hand on the butt of a + pistol. We will both keep awake for a time, and if nothing comes of it we + will then watch by turns. It is clear that they suspect that we are not + what we seem.” + </p> + <p> + The men at the other table were talking together in low voices, and, + listening intently, Hector could hear a murmur of voices in the room + behind him. + </p> + <p> + “There were more than two voices there,” he whispered presently to Paolo. + The latter nodded, for he too had been listening. Presently the landlord + returned with the two flagons of hot beer, which were set down on the + table before them. The room was lighted only by a torch stuck in a cresset + on the wall, and Hector had purposely seated himself as far from this as + possible. Paolo took up his mug, raised it to his lips, and then set it + down again with a sudden cry. + </p> + <p> + “I am afraid that you will not be able to take it,” Hector said aloud. + </p> + <p> + “What is the matter with your comrade?” the landlord asked. + </p> + <p> + “He has a terrible abscess in his jaw, and is unable to speak or to + swallow.” + </p> + <p> + The landlord took the torch from its place and walked over and looked at + Paolo's cheek. “There is no mistake about that,” he said. “It is indeed a + terrible swelling, and the cheek looks almost raw.” + </p> + <p> + “He has put liniments on it,” Hector said, “but they seem to have done him + harm rather than good. However, he is not so bad as he was, and I hope + that the abscess will break ere long.” + </p> + <p> + The landlord fastened the torch up again, and said in a low tone to the + other men: “There is no doubt about his face being bad.” As he turned away + from the table he stood between Hector and the other men, and the former + seized the opportunity of pouring the contents of his mug against the wall + by his knee, knowing that as the floor was of earth it would soak it up at + once. From time to time he lifted the mug to his lips, until he apparently + drained it. Then half closing his eyes he leant up against the corner. + Paolo had already laid his head down on the table, and after a time both + breathed heavily and regularly. Half an hour later one of the men rose + noiselessly and left the room. Two or three minutes afterwards he returned + with the host, the man who had gone out before, and two others. + </p> + <p> + “Seven against two,” Hector thought to himself. “However, we shall have + the advantage of a surprise.” He touched Paolo with his foot to assure + himself that he had not really gone off to sleep, but the responsive + movement showed that he also was on his guard. The man who had first left + the room and one of the others drew their long knives and stepped quietly + forward, while the others, also with bared weapons, prepared to support + them if necessary. Hector waited until the two leaders were close, then he + exclaimed sharply, “Now!” at the same moment throwing forward his hand + with the pistol. Two reports rang out at the same moment, and the men + pitched heavily forward. A yell of surprise and fury broke from the + others, but ere they could step over their fallen comrades, Hector and his + companion stood erect with their second pistols in their right hands and + their axes ready for action in their left. + </p> + <p> + Hector's second shot took effect on the landlord, Paolo's apparently + missed, for the other four rushed forward. Hector dashed the table aside, + and he and Paolo, poising their heavy axes, rushed forward to meet their + assailants. + </p> + <p> + “Mind the beams,” Hector shouted, as with a sweeping side blow he clove in + the head of one opponent. But the warning came too late. Paolo struck a + downward blow, the axe caught the low beams of the ceiling, and it flew + from his hand. His opponent sprang upon him. Paolo caught the man's right + wrist as he struck at him with his knife, and drew his own from his + girdle. His assailant threw his other arm round him, and, grappling, they + fell on to the ground. Hector could do nothing to assist him, for the + other two men were trying to circle round him, keeping beyond the swing of + his axe but watching for an opportunity to spring upon him. Keeping his + back against the wall he made feints against them. Presently one of the + men passed between him and the two antagonists struggling on the ground. + Suddenly they rolled over and over, coming in contact with him from behind + and almost throwing him over. Before he could recover from the shock + Hector's axe struck him below the ear. + </p> + <p> + The other man would have turned and made for the door, but Hector knew + that it was important that he should not escape and carry the news to + others of his party, who might be in the forest. He therefore sprang after + him, and before the wretch could open the door struck him between the + shoulders with his long knife. As he did so Paolo sprung up with a shout. + </p> + <p> + “Thank God that you are alive, Paolo! I was afraid that he might have + killed you.” + </p> + <p> + “No, no, master. I had him by the wrist too firmly for that, and my knife + did its work almost directly. But with those two fellows hovering round I + should have been at their mercy had I tried to get on my feet. So I kept + on struggling until I saw my opportunity, and then as that fellow's back + was turned I rolled over against him, and so gave you the chance that you + were waiting for. Well, master, it has been a sharp business.” + </p> + <p> + “It has indeed. Now the first thing is to see if there is anyone else in + the house, and the next to look about for some clothes for you to put on, + for those you wear are covered with blood. Then we must be off, and put as + many miles between us and this place before morning as we can.” + </p> + <p> + A brief search showed that the place was empty, save for the dead in the + taproom. An old doublet belonging to the landlord was found hanging up in + the loft where he slept. Taking off his outer garments, Paolo put this on. + </p> + <p> + “It is lucky I kept my breeches on under the others,” he said, “for I + certainly could not have gone into a town with these stained things on. I + suppose there is some money hidden somewhere, but we have not time to + look. You may be sure that many a traveller has been murdered here.” + </p> + <p> + “I quite agree with you, but we have certainly no time to spare to hunt + for it. Let us be off at once.” + </p> + <p> + Reloading their pistols and carefully wiping their axes they went out by a + door at the back of the house, for neither cared to re-enter the scene of + the slaughter. Before doing so, however, they took a long draught from the + landlord's beer barrel, to make up for the drink of which they had + deprived themselves. The storm had passed, and the stars were shining + brightly. They met nobody on their way until within two or three miles of + Gunzenhausen; it was found that the haft of Paolo's axe was deeply stained + with blood; and he threw it away on issuing from the wood, as it did not + accord well with his present attire, which was rather that of a discharged + soldier or a worker in cities than of a countryman. Soon after eight + o'clock they approached the town. They were now greatly fatigued, for they + had done two long days' marches without any sleep between them, and + turning off from the road they made their way to a little clump of trees, + and there threw themselves down in the shade and slept until late in the + afternoon. + </p> + <p> + “I think that after our experience of last night, Paolo,” Hector said, as + they walked towards the town, “we had better wait until we can join some + party going to Hall before we leave this place. From what I hear, the road + is a great deal more infested with bands of lawless men than that along + which we have come.” + </p> + <p> + “Then, master, I think we had certainly better wait, for I don't want + anything worse than we had yesterday.” + </p> + <p> + They went to a small inn, had supper, and then lay down on some straw in + an outhouse and slept soundly until morning. Then they breakfasted, and as + there was no one else in the room Paolo was able to eat freely. Presently + the landlord came in, and Hector entered into conversation with him. + </p> + <p> + “We want to go on to Hall,” he said. “We have friends there, and we are + obliged to leave home because we should be taken for the army.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, I don't think that you will find yourself better off at Hall than + here. They are catching up every ablebodied young fellow and putting him + into the ranks, and as you both look strong and active, except for your + comrade's face, you are both likely to be seized as soon as you enter + Hall, especially if you have no papers to show.” + </p> + <p> + “We are not thinking of entering Hall, landlord. Our friends live a few + miles away, and they will hide us till the army moves away from these + parts.” + </p> + <p> + “That will be before long, thank the saints! There is news that a great + French army marched from Spires three days ago, and there is like to be a + great fight before long; and if the French are beaten Merci will chase + them back to the Rhine, recapture all the towns that they have taken, and + perhaps enter Alsace.” + </p> + <p> + “Which way do they say that the French are marching?” + </p> + <p> + “They took the road to Weisloch. Some think that they will come through + Wimpfen, and then by Weinsberg here, unless Merci bars the way. Others + again think that they will make their way down through Stuttgart. Five + hundred men march from here tomorrow to Hall, whence they go on to + Heilbronn to strengthen the garrison there. All the waggons in the town + and country round have been fetched in to carry their stores and baggage + and a convoy of ammunition. I should say that you could not do better than + go on with the waggons. No one is likely to ask you any questions, for it + will be thought that you are drivers.” + </p> + <p> + “Thank you very much,” Hector said; “that would certainly be a capital + plan. We were afraid of going through the forests alone.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, and you were right. They are full of marauders. A party of troopers + arrived here from Eichstadt yesterday evening. They stopped to get a drink + at a cabaret in the forest, and on entering found seven men lying dead, + and no one living to say how they got there. That some, if not all, were + robbers was evident from the fact that, on the bodies being searched, + articles evidently plundered from travellers were found upon all of them. + An examination was made of the house, and considerable quantities of + plunder found hidden. Searching in the forest behind, several mounds of + earth, evidently graves, were discovered. The landlord himself was among + the killed, for one of the troopers, who had before stopped at the house, + recognized him. It was supposed that the brigands were killed by some + other party with whom they had quarrelled. Three of them were shot and two + killed by tremendous blows from an axe, and as neither pistols nor axes + were found in the room it is clear that those within had been killed by + some other band.” + </p> + <p> + The next morning, when the column started, Hector and Paolo fell in among + the carts, and rendered good service on the road by helping to move them + when the wheels of the waggons stuck fast at spots where the road crossed + marshy valleys. So bad was the journey that it occupied two days. Then the + waggons were parked outside the walls of Hall, a guard being placed round + them to prevent desertion. The troops slept inside the town. At daybreak + the next morning their march was arrested by an officer riding out from + the town, saying that news had arrived on the previous evening that the + French were marching upon Heilbronn, that General Merci was concentrating + his army there to oppose the passage of the river, and that the troops + were to push on with all speed, leaving their baggage train at Hall. + Hector at once decided that, with the Bavarian army gathering in front, it + would be madness to endeavour to push on, and that indeed it would be far + better to fall back until the direction of the French march was fully + determined, when they could make a detour and come down upon their flank + without having to pass through the Bavarian army. He did not, however, + care about remaining in Hall, which might be occupied by the Bavarians if + they fell back, and they therefore, after entering the town with the + waggons, purchased a store of provisions, and, going out again, + established themselves in a small farmhouse, whose occupants had deserted + it and fled into the town upon hearing that the French were but some + thirty miles distant. + </p> + <p> + Every day Hector went into the place to gather news, and learned that + Wimpfen had been captured by the French by a sudden assault, and that they + had crossed the Neckar. On returning he at once started with Paolo, but on + approaching the Neckar learned that the French had marched on to + Rothenburg. They fell in, however, with a detachment which had been left + on the Neckar. Hector found among them several officers to whom he was + known, and, borrowing Paolo's money, fitted himself and follower out + again, bought a couple of horses that had been captured from the + Bavarians, who had, he learned, retired to Franconia, and set out to join + the army. Rothenburg had been, he found out on his arrival, captured in a + few hours, and the main body of the French had marched to Dinkelsbuhl, and + there he came up with them. He had learned from the party on the Neckar of + the defection of Konigsmark and the Swedes, and that Conde and Turenne's + united army did not exceed twenty thousand men, and, as he knew, that of + Merci was at least equal to it in strength. His first question on entering + the camp was as to the quarters of his own regiment, and he at once rode + there. As soon as he was recognized the men ran to him, cheering wildly, + and so great was the tumult that Turenne himself, whose headquarters were + but a short distance away, rode to the spot to enquire the cause of the + tumult. When he saw Hector surrounded by his cheering soldiers he passed + through the crowd, and, reaching him, shook him warmly by the hand. + </p> + <p> + “I had hoped that we might have made an exchange for you during the + winter, colonel, but I had not thought it possible that I should see you + again before that time; for in the first place, we captured no prisoners + in this campaign, but, on the contrary, have had many of our own officers + taken; and in the second place, we have been too busy ever since + Marienthal to enter into negotiations. You have, I suppose, given them the + slip, you and that varlet of yours, for I see him over there.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, marshal; we had no very great difficulty in getting away. I have + been very well treated, and until I heard that you were again taking the + offensive, I had no reason to fret over my imprisonment.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, you have joined us just in time, for at any moment we may fight a + great battle. When you have leisure this evening come over to my tent. I + shall be glad to hear how you managed to escape, and any news you have + gained as to Merci's force and intentions.” + </p> + <p> + As soon as the marshal had ridden off, his officers pressed round him, but + before speaking to them individually Hector said a few words to the men, + thanking them for the greeting they had given him, and saying that he was + glad indeed to be back among them. Then he talked for a time to the + officers, two or three of whom, after saying a few words apart to Captain + de Thiou, had hurried away. Half an hour later de Thiou said: + </p> + <p> + “I have no doubt that you will be glad of supper, colonel. Ours is just + prepared, and we hope that you will join us.” + </p> + <p> + “I am hungry, de Thiou, now I come to think of it, for except a crust of + bread this morning I have not touched anything today.” + </p> + <p> + “It is fortunate that we are better off than usual,” de Thiou said. “We + had the luck to buy a pig from one of Weimar's troopers. The cavalry get + the best of it, for though there are orders against pillaging, there is no + doubt that a good deal of it goes on; and, marching as we have been, there + is no one to see that orders are strictly carried out. However, we have + benefited by it this afternoon.” + </p> + <p> + Accompanying de Thiou, Hector was surprised to find that at a short + distance in front of the spot where the regiment was bivouacked a large + arbour had been erected. + </p> + <p> + “I did not notice this as I rode in,” he said. + </p> + <p> + “It was not even thought of then, colonel; it was begun a few minutes + after you rode up, and the men have worked right willingly, and + fortunately there was a copse hard by. I may say that it was the men's own + idea. I had given orders that a table should be made of any materials that + came to hand, and one of the men started the idea of building an arbour + over it, and as many hands make quick work it has, as you see, been + constructed in little over half an hour.” + </p> + <p> + As the evening was warm the front of the arbour had been left open. + Inside, a rough table had been constructed of empty casks, planks taken + from the bottom of the waggons, and a couple of doors from cottages near, + while powder barrels served as seats. + </p> + <p> + “Now, colonel, will you take the head of the table?” de Thiou said. + </p> + <p> + “Certainly not, de Thiou. I am your guest upon this occasion, so do you + take that place, and I will sit upon your right hand.” + </p> + <p> + “I only wish that we could have given you a dinner like those you so often + gave us at St. Denis.” + </p> + <p> + “I shall enjoy it as much as if it were a royal feast,” Hector said, + seating himself; “for indeed since I escaped from Ingoldstadt some ten + days ago I have been living on black bread, sausage, and cheese.” + </p> + <p> + The meal was a joyous one, for at the assault of Rothenburg on the + previous day several barrels of wine had been captured by the soldiers of + the regiment. These had been bought from them by the officers, who had + feared that some of the men might drink to excess, and so damage the + reputation which the regiment had obtained for sobriety and discipline. + One of these had been broached, and this and the pork afforded an + excellent supper even though the bread was of the worst possible quality. + When the meal was over, de Thiou stood up and proposed the health of the + colonel, and congratulated him most warmly upon his escape from the enemy, + expressing the extreme satisfaction of all the men as well as officers at + his return. The toast was drunk with enthusiasm, and Hector briefly + returned thanks. Then, in accordance with the general request, he related + the particulars of his escape from Ingoldstadt and of his journey. Paolo, + who had been waiting behind his master's chair, came in for warm praise + for the share he had taken in the matter. + </p> + <p> + “I certainly did not think when I first, against the advice of everyone, + took Paolo as my lackey five years ago, that he would turn out so valuable + a servant as he has done,” Hector said as de Thiou handed a goblet of wine + to the man. “He has been more than a servant, he has taken part in all my + adventures, and truly I regard him as my friend. Indeed, gentlemen, had it + not been for him I certainly should not be here tonight, for my own money + gave out altogether at Hall, and I had to borrow from his store the means + of buying clothes and horses.” + </p> + <p> + “By the way, colonel,” de Thiou said, “from the day that you were captured + I have drawn your pay for you, knowing that if it fell into arrear you + would have had hard work in getting it, so that I have now three months of + your money in the regimental chest.” + </p> + <p> + “Thank you, de Thiou, it will be very welcome; though Paolo would not have + been a very hard creditor.” + </p> + <p> + At eight o'clock the party broke up, and Hector walked across to Turenne's + quarters. The latter had just returned from a consultation with the other + generals. + </p> + <p> + “We shall open our trenches here tonight; the place is of some importance, + as it is on the direct road to Nordlingen, and it is as well not to leave + it behind us. This, however, we shall do, if news comes that Merci is + marching to give us battle before that city, which we expect he will do. + The Imperialists will like to fight there, for it was the scene of their + great victory over the Duke of Weimar and the Swedes.” + </p> + <p> + “We must hope that we shall reverse matters this time, marshal.” + </p> + <p> + “We must hope so,” the latter said gravely; “if we fight on a fair field I + have no misgivings whatever. But Merci always takes up strong positions + and entrenches himself, and Enghien is so anxious to fight that he will do + so at a disadvantage rather than wait until we can meet them on even + terms. You know what happened at Freiburg, where we lost some nine + thousand men and gained no great advantage; while if we had moved round + and threatened their line of retreat the enemy must have fallen back at + once, we should have obtained our object without the loss of a man, and + might possibly have fallen upon Merci in his retreat, and well nigh + annihilated his army. Do not think, Campbell, that I am for a moment + underestimating Enghien's genius. It is extraordinary, and in the hour of + battle he is superb, not only from his extreme personal bravery, but from + the quickness with which he grasps every point, seizes upon the spot where + a blow can be best delivered, and snatches victory, where another would + see only defeat before him. But he is reckless of life so long as he + carries his point, and rather than lose a day in turning the enemy's + position and so forcing him to relinquish it, will sacrifice whole + regiments by marching straight against the most formidable entrenchments. + Had he but patience in addition to his own splendid qualities, I think he + would be the greatest military genius the world has ever seen. And now let + me hear what happened to you after you left my side that night after + Marienthal.” + </p> + <p> + Hector again related his adventures. Turenne laughed at the account of his + escape, hidden under the flour bags. + </p> + <p> + “It was a good scheme,” he said; “and it was well that you had that lackey + of yours with you, for I do not think that you could ever have managed it + unaided.” + </p> + <p> + “I am sure I could not, marshal; it was entirely his suggestion, and he + arranged all the details splendidly. He was equally valuable in another + way afterwards;” and he described the fight in the cabaret. + </p> + <p> + “That was more dangerous than taking part in a pitched battle; seven + against two are heavy odds indeed, though you had the advantage of + weapons. The fellow has a ready wit to think of rolling against the man + who was waiting for a chance of running in and stabbing you; he would have + made his fortune somehow even if he had not had the good luck to fall in + with you. In some respects you resemble each other; you both have + enterprise, quickness, and daring, but he lacks your studious habits, your + determination to master everything connected with your profession, and + your ability to turn your knowledge to account. He would have made a good + soldier, an excellent leader of an irregular corps, but he would never + have gained distinction. Well, I am very glad to have had a quiet talk + with you; it takes one out of one's worries and anxieties. By the way, I + had a letter from Mazarin; it reached me while I was at Spires. He said he + was sorry to hear that you had been taken prisoner, and requested me to + make an exchange for you as soon as possible, even if I had to give a + general officer for you, for he was very deeply your debtor, and had the + highest esteem for you. What have you been doing to make him your debtor? + You never mentioned anything of the sort to me.” + </p> + <p> + “The matter was to some degree a state one, marshal, or I should have told + you of it; but as it took place nearly a year ago, and the circumstances + are altogether changed, I can mention them to you in confidence—for + even now, were it known, it might make me some powerful enemies.” He then + related how it was that he had thwarted the attempt on Mazarin's life. + </p> + <p> + “That was a piece of singular good fortune,” Turenne said. “Mazarin is a + staunch friend and a bitter enemy. I owe him no goodwill, for he has + behaved shamefully to de Bouillon, refusing to hand to him the estates for + which he exchanged his principality of Sedan; but I do not permit myself + to allow family interests to weigh with me against my duties to France. + Truly, as you say, it were well to hide your share in a business that sent + De Beaufort and a score of others to prison, and a dozen members of + powerful families into exile; it might well cause you serious trouble were + it known. You did well to keep the matter to yourself, and you did + specially well to refuse to accept any personal honour, for had you done + so Mazarin's enemies would at once have connected that fact with the + discovery of the plot.” + </p> + <p> + On returning to his regiment, Hector found that an order had come just + after he left, for four companies to march down under the guidance of an + engineer officer to begin work on the trenches. De Thiou, knowing that he + had gone to the marshal's, had gone down with the four leading companies. + The other infantry regiments had furnished similar contingents, showing + that the siege was to be pushed forward with all haste. + </p> + <p> + “Enghien does not allow the grass to grow under his feet,” Captain + Mieville said. “We stormed Wimpfen a few hours after our arrival before + it; we carried Rothenburg in a single night, and I expect that by tomorrow + evening we shall be masters of this place.” + </p> + <p> + In the morning four more companies went down to relieve those who had been + at work all night, and these had made great progress when, in the + afternoon, the news came that Merci was marching with all his strength + towards Nordlingen. Trumpets at once sounded to recall the troops from the + trenches, a meal was hastily cooked, and at sunset the army marched for + Nordlingen. All night they pushed on through the forest, and just as the + leading squadrons emerged from it on to the plain, Merci's forces were + seen issuing out from the forest facing them. Both armies at once formed + in order of battle. + </p> + <p> + Enghien, anxious to attack, rode forward with Turenne, de Gramont, and + Geis to reconnoitre the ground. It was found that between the armies there + was a small river, with great pools and swamps on either side, and that + the only approaches were by narrow and winding paths where two horsemen + could scarcely ride abreast. Even Enghien felt that it would be madness to + venture upon an attack. His artillery opened fire, that of the Bavarians + replied, and the cannonade was continued till nightfall, inflicting a + certain amount of loss on either side but in no way altering the position. + Seeing that a battle could not be brought on here, Enghien marched two + hours before daybreak for Nordlingen. At nine the army came down on to the + great plain in front of that town, but he found that Merci had been + beforehand with him, and had already taken up a strong position two + leagues away, and between him and the city, and that his troops were + already at work throwing up intrenchments. The prince ordered all the + baggage to be left behind, and at once marched against the enemy. At four + o'clock they were facing each other. Merci had, as usual, chosen his + position with great judgment. In the middle of the plain rose two little + hills about a thousand yards apart. On the hill on his left stood the + castle of Allersheim, and here Merci's left wing, under General John de + Werth, was posted; while at Weinberg his right, commanded by General + Gleen, took up its station. The main body of the army, under Merci + himself, lay behind a village a couple of hundred yards beyond the hills, + and at the head of the passage between them. He had his cavalry on his two + wings, his infantry in the centre, and had thrown forward some regiments + to hold the village. On the two hills he had planted his cannon, sheltered + by intrenchments, and in a position to sweep the entrance to the valley. + </p> + <p> + His army consisted of between fourteen and fifteen thousand men, that of + Enghien of seventeen thousand. After examining the position a council of + war was held. Turenne was strongly against attacking the enemy in a + position of such strength, but Enghien as usual overruled his opinion. + Turenne then urged that the cavalry on the wings should not charge up the + hills and attack the positions held there until the enemy's centre had + been defeated, and his advice in this respect was taken. The generals then + separated and rode to their respective commands. De Gramont commanded the + right wing, consisting of all the French cavalry, and having as a second + line a reserve consisting of four battalions of infantry and six squadrons + of horse commanded by Chevalier de Chabot. Turenne commanded the left, + which consisted of his own army, with twelve squadrons of Weimar's + cavalry, with the Hessian army—six battalions and six squadrons—as + a second line. The centre, consisting of ten battalions and five squadrons + of horse, was commanded by Count de Marsin. Enghien took no special + command, preferring to remain free to go where his presence was most + needed. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0018" id="link2HCH0018"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XVIII: NORDLINGEN + </h2> + <p> + It was five o'clock in the afternoon when all the arrangements for the + attack were completed. But as on the 3rd of August the evening is long, it + was judged that there would be sufficient daylight to carry out the + battle. The French began with a cannonade against the village, and this + was replied to by the guns on the two hills. Not only did the position of + the latter give them great superiority, but much time was lost by the + French in being obliged to move forward their guns as the army advanced, a + slow and tedious process in days when cannon were very heavy and cumbrous. + Seeing that they were losing time and suffering more loss than they + inflicted, Enghien gave the order to the infantry of the centre to + advance. + </p> + <p> + They went forward with great speed and eagerness, for they were burning to + retrieve their cowardly conduct at Marienthal. They carried the + intrenchments Merci had thrown up at the mouth of the pass, and, heedless + of the firing of the guns, rushed at the village. Here, however, they were + received by so heavy a fire of musketry from the infantry posted there, + who had loopholed all the walls and houses, that they came to a stop, and, + being shot down in great numbers, turned and fled. The Count de Marsin was + himself dangerously wounded. The Duc d'Enghien sent the Marquis de la + Moussaie forward with a reinforcement of several regiments, but these, + too, fell back before the Imperialists' fire. The Duc d'Enghien then + rallied the infantry, added to them all those not yet engaged, and himself + led them to the charge. Merci on his part brought forward his main body to + the village. + </p> + <p> + The battle was now a desperate one. Enghien seemed to lead a charmed life. + He was ever where the fight was hottest, encouraging the soldiers and + setting them an example. His clothes were shot through in many places. Two + horses were killed under him, and he received a contusion in the thigh. + Merci on his part showed equal valour and intrepidity; but he was less + fortunate, for he was struck by a musketball and killed. The news of his + fall excited his soldiers to fury, and, hurling themselves on their + assailants they cut the greater part of the infantry to pieces. + </p> + <p> + The French on the right had done no better, for the Bavarian cavalry + charged them with such impetuosity that although they fought sturdily they + were broken and routed. De Gramont did all that a leader could do to check + their flight and lead them back to the battle; and when he saw that he was + powerless to do this he put himself at the head of two regiments that had + not yet been engaged, received the Bavarian horse with a heavy volley, and + leading his troopers to the charge, broke into them, but advancing too far + was surrounded and taken prisoner. John de Werth then fell on the reserve, + broke them, penetrated the baggage, which was plundered, and then pursued + the fugitives far away from the field of battle. Had he, instead of + allowing his troops and himself to be carried away by their ardour, + brought them round and attacked the French left in the rear, the + Imperialist victory would have been complete. + </p> + <p> + Here for a time the conflict was doubtful. Turenne, in spite of the fire + of the Imperialist artillery, led his troops in good order up the hill of + Weinberg. His horse was shot under him and his cuirass was struck, but not + pierced, by a musketball. On gaining the top of the hill a terrible fight + took place between the Weimar and Hessian troops on one side, and the + Austrians and Bavarians on the other. The former showed valour in strong + contrast with the conduct of their French allies; and after repeated + volleys had been exchanged infantry and cavalry rushed upon each other and + fought with bayonet and sword. At last the first line of Imperialists gave + way, but General Gleen brought up the second line and threw Turenne's + first line into disorder, although they still maintained their ground. At + this moment Conde, seeing that his centre was destroyed and his right + utterly dispersed, came up and joined Turenne, and placing himself at the + head of the Hessians, who formed the second line, brought them forward. + The enemy's squadrons were broken, and the infantry defeated. The guns + were then turned upon the Imperialists on the slope of the hill leading + down to the village, and when they were shaken by the fire Turenne's + squadron charged down upon them and completed their defeat. General Gleen + was taken prisoner, and Turenne's troops, descending the hill, took the + village in flank. + </p> + <p> + Had the defenders here fought with the same courage that they had + previously evinced, they would have given time to John de Werth to return, + and the fate of the battle would have been doubtful, but they were seized + with unreasoning panic, and at once surrendered. The night had long since + closed in, and so far as the fighting had gone the battle might be + considered a drawn one. The French right and centre were utterly routed, + but their left had captured one of the keys of the position and the + village behind it. Had John de Werth, when he returned from the pursuit, + shown himself an able general, rallied the Imperialists and sent them to + recapture the village, and with his victorious cavalry made a circuit of + the Weinberg and fallen upon Turenne's rear, the Imperialist success would + have been as complete and striking as that which they had won on nearly + the same ground over the Swedes; but although an impetuous leader of + cavalry, he had no military genius, and on returning after dark, and + hearing that the Weinberg was lost and the village captured, he drew off + from the field. + </p> + <p> + He was joined by the Imperialist infantry, and when the morning broke + Turenne's division stood victors on the field. A number of officers, many + standards, and all the cannon of the enemy fell into their hands. Of the + French infantry not more than fifteen hundred were rallied after the + battle, and of the allied army Turenne's German troops, although they had + suffered severely, alone remained intact. John de Werth retreated with the + remains of the Imperialist force to Donauworth, and crossed to the other + side of the Danube, although his force was still superior to that of + Turenne, for the loss suffered by the French and Turenne's German troops + was very much greater than that of the Imperialists. Enghien, in his + despatch announcing the victory, acknowledged in his letter to the queen + that it was due to the valour and honour of Turenne. + </p> + <p> + Nordlingen and Dinkelsbuhl opened their gates to the victors. Enghien fell + ill and was forced to return to France, leaving Turenne in command. De + Gramont was exchanged for Gleen, and he and Turenne took counsel as to the + course that had best be pursued. John de Werth had already recrossed the + Danube, and the French generals fell back to Hall, where they remained for + twelve days to refresh the troops, provisions being plentiful in the + neighbourhood. + </p> + <p> + But their position was daily becoming more untenable. The Duke of Bavaria, + greatly alarmed by the result of the battle of Nordlingen, wrote to the + emperor that unless Austria largely increased her force in the field he + should retire from the contest, of which he had hitherto borne the brunt, + and make terms with the French. The emperor, who had just brought a war + with Hungary to a close, despatched the Archduke Leopold, his son, with a + great body of horse, and he soon effected a junction with Gleen and John + de Werth, and together they pushed forward at the utmost speed to surprise + the French. As soon as Turenne received news of the movement he and de + Gramont agreed that an instant retreat must be made, seeing that their + force was less than half that which was advancing to attack them. The + baggage was abandoned, and as there was no bridge available the army + crossed the Neckar by swimming, each cavalryman taking one of the infantry + behind him. They continued their retreat until they arrived at + Philippsburg. Here Turenne with the whole of his army took up his + position, covered by the guns of the fortress, while Gramont passed the + river with the remains of Enghien's army and all the cavalry. + </p> + <p> + The Imperialists, after examining Turenne's position, came to the + conclusion that it could not be attacked, and, marching away, besieged and + captured all the towns taken by the French in their advance. Thus beyond + the empty honour of a nominal victory at Nordlingen, the campaign under + Enghien and Turenne ended, without any solid advantage whatever being + gained by the French. + </p> + <p> + The Poitou regiment, which was the only French battalion in the army of + Turenne, had been placed with the Hessians in the second line. It had + fought with distinguished bravery on the crest of the Weinberg, and had + publicly been thanked by Enghien, who had on the day of the battle ridden + by the side of Hector at their head when they fell upon the Imperialists. + They had suffered but a small number of casualties, for the enemy were + already shaken before they charged, and had, after receiving a shattering + volley, broken and fled as the regiment charged with fixed bayonets. + Turenne was always anxious to impress upon Hector the lessons that were to + be learned from each action, and while they were encamped round Hall he + went over the events of the campaign with him on a map. + </p> + <p> + “You see,” he said, “that what I said to you on the evening before we + marched from Dinkelsbuhl has been completely justified. Instead of + manoeuvring so as to fight in the open, we dashed ourselves against this + strong position, with the inevitable consequences, two-thirds of our army + were routed, and the infantry of the centre and right all but annihilated; + and although by hard fighting we on the left gained an advantage, it was + only the impetuous folly of John de Werth that saved us from destruction. + Now, you see, we are in no position to fight another battle. A victory won + in one's own country is decisive for a considerable time, but a victory in + an enemy's country, unless it involves his disastrous defeat and the utter + breakup of his army, is practically without value. We can receive no + reinforcements, for none can reach us from France in less than a couple of + months; the enemy, on the other hand, have rapidly filled up their ranks, + and have received, or are about to receive, large reinforcements, and as + soon as they advance we must retreat in all haste, sacrifice all the + advantages we have gained, and shall be lucky if we can maintain a footing + on this side of the Rhine. + </p> + <p> + “Five or six thousand lives have been thrown away and nothing whatever + gained. Now, you see, had we instead of knocking our heads against the + enemy's position, manoeuvred to place ourselves between him and the + Danube, he must have retreated without fighting a battle, for he was + inferior to us in numbers, and we should have been able to go into winter + quarters in Nordlingen and possibly lay siege to Eichstadt. A genius may + win a battle, Campbell, but genius, if accompanied by impetuosity and a + thirst for great victories, will very seldom win a campaign. I love as + well as admire Enghien; he is chivalrous and generous, he has great + military genius; possibly with age his impetuosity may be tempered with + discretion, but at present, although a brilliant leader, he is not the + general that I would choose to serve under in a long campaign.” + </p> + <p> + When Weimar's cavalry crossed the Rhine with de Gramont they broke into + mutiny, declaring that they were raised to fight in Germany and would not + fight in France. Turenne crossed and endeavoured to get them to return to + their duty, recalling to them how nobly they had fought under him, and + appealing to them in the strongest way not to desert him now. A portion of + them gave in to his entreaties, but the rest rode away to effect a + junction with the Swedish army, and he was therefore deprived of a + considerable portion of the force that had been the mainstay of his little + army. Upon the other hand, the Archduke Leopold marched away to Bohemia to + oppose the Swedes, who had gained several successes in that direction. + Turenne, however, determined to carry out one more enterprise before the + winter set in, and to reinstate the Elector of Treves, who had been + deprived of his dominions for twelve years, in consequence of his having + entered into an alliance with France. In order to effect this he marched + in the first week in November with a small force of infantry and his + cavalry to the Moselle, a distance of forty leagues. + </p> + <p> + He was joined by some of Enghien's troops from Metz, and on the 14th of + November he invested Treves. The Imperialists were unable to gather a + force of sufficient strength to relieve the town, which was, therefore, + after a short resistance, forced to capitulate. The small garrisons from + other towns in the elector's dominions were speedily driven out and the + elector restored to his possessions, a result doubly gratifying, since his + restoration produced a widespread effect among the German princes who had + thrown in their lot with France, while the material advantage was no less, + as it closed a door through which the Imperialists, when in sufficient + force, could at any time pour their troops into France. This brought the + campaign of 1645 to a close. Turenne was called to Paris, where he + received the honours that were due to him for the skill and bravery by + which, with altogether insufficient forces—raised, equipped and paid + to a large extent from his private purse—he had for two years + guarded the Rhine frontier from invasion by the united forces of Bavaria + and Austria. Hector's regiment had been left at Philippsburg when Turenne + marched away; but the marshal told him that there was no occasion whatever + for him to remain with it during the winter. He thought indeed that it + would be advantageous that he should pay a short visit to Paris, present + himself to Mazarin, and then go down and see how matters fared with the + estate, to which he had paid but a flying visit. He therefore set out + without delay, Turenne entrusting him with some despatches to the + cardinal. + </p> + <p> + “They are of no great importance,” he said, “but it is always well for an + officer returning to Paris to carry despatches with him. It shows that he + has the hearty approval of his commander in leaving his post for a while, + and that he has distinguished himself in a special degree to be thus + selected. I have several times in my despatches had occasion to speak of + the excellent service rendered by your regiment, and it will ensure you a + good reception at court. Besides, Mazarin is evidently disposed to regard + you with special favour, and an occasional visit keeps that feeling alive, + whereas it naturally cools down after a prolonged absence. Therefore in + every respect it is as well that you should show yourself in Paris for a + short time before going down to Poitou, where I hear there have been some + troublesome risings of the peasantry. The province, being broken and hilly + for the most part, offers considerable advantages to irregular forces, who + move unencumbered with baggage, and against whom cavalry cannot well act. + I do not know that any of these troubles have occurred in the + neighbourhood of your estate, but you would naturally wish to see for + yourself how matters are going on.” + </p> + <p> + “It seems more than two years since we left here, master,” Paolo said, as + they rode into Paris. + </p> + <p> + “It does indeed. It is more than six years now since I first rode away + with Turenne, and a month later you entered my service. We have gone + through a good deal together since those days, Paolo.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, indeed, sir. It was a fortunate day for me when my brother took me + to your quarters.” + </p> + <p> + “It has been quite as fortunate for me, Paolo. I doubt whether I should + ever have proposed undertaking to carry Turenne's message into the citadel + of Turin had I not felt that I could rely upon you as my companion in the + business, and it was that which gave me my first step. Since then you have + always been by my side, and have more than once saved my life.” + </p> + <p> + On reaching Mazarin's hotel Hector found that he was at the Louvre, and + immediately went there, and as bearer of despatches from the army was at + once introduced to the minister's apartment. + </p> + <p> + “Come with me at once to the queen's closet,” the cardinal said as he + entered. “She has just sent for me, and her majesty, being at once a woman + and a queen, does not like being kept waiting. She always wishes to + receive the first news from the army, therefore I can venture to take you + with me without asking her permission. + </p> + <p> + “I have brought Monsieur de Villar to your majesty,” he said as he entered + the queen's apartment. “He has just reached Paris with despatches from the + Viscount Turenne. He has only this instant arrived, and I thought I might + venture to bring him at once to you.” + </p> + <p> + “'Tis a long time since we have seen you, monsieur,” the queen said + graciously, “but we have heard of you from the marshal's despatches, and + were glad to see that your regiment bore itself as well in the field of + battle as in the park of Versailles. What news do you bring? Nothing of + importance, I hope, for there can hardly be good news when the marshal has + so scanty a force with which to guard the frontier.” + </p> + <p> + “The Viscount de Turenne is too zealous in your service, madam, to remain + idle, however small his force. He started suddenly the day I left with his + cavalry and a small body of infantry to march to Treves, with two or three + regiments he has persuaded the Duc d'Enghien to send him from Metz with + some guns, and he hoped to capture the city and clear the electorate of + the enemy before they can receive strong reinforcements, seeing that they + are all scattered in their winter quarters.” + </p> + <p> + “A bold stroke indeed, cardinal,” the queen said, much gratified. “It has + touched our honour that the elector should so long have suffered for his + fidelity to France; and, moreover, its possession in his hands will + relieve us of much anxiety and give us the Moselle as a barrier against + the incursions of the enemy in that corner of our dominions. He is + indefatigable, this good viscount, cardinal; and he is not one of those + who look for great rewards for every service. He has indeed carried on the + war largely on his own resources, which has been of no slight advantage to + us, seeing that our exchequer is but too often strained to meet demands + from other quarters. If he succeeds in this enterprise, you must write in + our name and bid him come hither to receive our thanks in person, and to + rest for a while from his labours in our service. + </p> + <p> + “You have changed somewhat, Monsieur de Villar, since we last saw you. The + ladies of the court called you then the little colonel—not because + of your size, for you already overtopped the greater portion of our + courtiers, but from your age. Now you look all over a soldier, and a + weatherbeaten one.” + </p> + <p> + Hector had indeed aged during the past two years. He was now nearly + two-and-twenty, his moustache had grown, and, as was the custom of the + time, he wore a small imperial. The habit of command had given to his face + an expression of decision and resolution unusual at his age, and a life + spent in the open air, and for the most part sleeping without cover, had + bronzed his skin, and had counteracted the youthful appearance caused by + his fair complexion. + </p> + <p> + “'Tis but some three months since we heard of you as a prisoner, having + been captured while with your regiment covering the retreat after the + unfortunate battle of Marienthal. The cardinal told me that he had written + to the field marshal to try and arrange an exchange for you if possible. + We had not heard that he had done so when the Duc d'Enghien's report of + the battle of Nordlingen spoke of you as doing good service with your + regiment there. I suppose Turenne, in the press of business, omitted to + say that you had been exchanged.” + </p> + <p> + “I was not exchanged, madam. I succeeded in effecting my escape from the + fortress of Ingoldstadt.” + </p> + <p> + “You seem born to have adventures, monsieur,” the queen said. “We heard + before of your regiment performing prodigies of valour at Freiburg, and of + withstanding Merci's whole army, foot and horse, for three hours. Last + winter the governor of Lorraine reported that you and a company of your + regiment from Nancy had defeated a great body of insurgent peasants, and + had rescued Madame de Blenfoix and her daughter from massacre at their + hands. There is no officer under the rank of general whose name has been + so frequently brought under our notice. You intend to make some stay in + Paris, I hope?” + </p> + <p> + “I shall do myself the honour later on, your majesty; but I hear that + there are peasant troubles down in Poitou, and as I only paid a visit of a + few days there, when your majesty had the goodness to present the fief to + me, I am anxious to know how matters are going on, and to see that my + castle is secure from attack by the insurgents.” + </p> + <p> + “Your excuse is a good one. It would be well if more possessors of estates + would spend their time in endeavouring to alleviate the condition of their + people, instead of wasting their time and money in Paris.” + </p> + <p> + “Monsieur de Villar took steps in that direction, your majesty, before + leaving for the war; for my agents, who keep me informed of most things + that take place, acquainted me with the fact that Monsieur de Villar + entirely remitted the usual fines on taking possession, and reduced the + annual payment of his tenants by one half until times should mend.” + </p> + <p> + “A noble example!” the queen said warmly. “I would that we could afford to + do the same through all the royal domains. It is a pleasure to us to know + that one at least of our fiefs has been so worthily bestowed. Well, sir, I + shall see you at the court this evening.” + </p> + <p> + Hector bowed and withdrew. His first step was to go to the clothing + establishment most frequented by men of good family. “I have to attend at + the court this evening. I have just returned from the army, and have but + the clothes that I stand up in. Have you any garments that will fit me + suitable for such an occasion?” + </p> + <p> + “Of shoulder cloaks I have great store in silks, satins, and velvets of + all shades and colours. There is no difficulty about doublets, for of + these I always keep a large stock in hand; and although you are a bigger + man than the majority of my customers, I think that I can suit you. Tight + pantaloons are chiefly worn by those who affect the latest fashion, but it + would be impossible for me to make these at such short notice. As you are + a military man this matters little, for these chiefly affect loose + breeches trimmed at the bottom with rich lace, stockings of silk, and + shoes with rosettes. Such breeches I could promise you in three hours, for + they require but little making. The stockings of all shades I have in + stock, also shoes. These would need but rosettes of the colour to suit the + dress, to be added to them.” + </p> + <p> + “I put myself in your hands,” Hector said. “I wish for a handsome dress, + and yet one which shall in no way be foppish, but shall be suitable to my + station. I am Baron de la Villar, colonel of the Poitou regiment of + infantry.” + </p> + <p> + “Do you incline to silk, velvet, or satin? I should say a velvet cloak and + satin tunic and breeches would suit you best with your fair hair. I should + choose for the cloak a crimson or violet, and for the doublet and breeches + a yellow. If you would prefer a blue cloak I should say a white satin + doublet and breeches would become you.” + </p> + <p> + Hector shook his head. “No, I should prefer the first mixture. I care not + whether the cloak is crimson or violet.” + </p> + <p> + “I think violet, monsieur, and rosettes of the same colour on your shoes. + It were best, I think, that the stockings should match the doublet. You + will, of course, have a pointed lace collar for your cloak, and at the + bottom of your breeches and at your wrists to match. I think, sir, that a + large collar and gold embroidery would go best with the costume.” + </p> + <p> + Hector nodded. “I leave it entirely to you, Master Poitrou, so that + everything is ready in time for me to wear them. I also want a travelling + suit of good fashion—I leave the matter of colour to you—and + also a suit for wearing here in Paris.” + </p> + <p> + The cloak and doublets were speedily chosen, as M. Poitrou had several of + the colour and material in stock. Hector was then measured for the + breeches, which were of the fashion now known as knickerbockers, but + somewhat looser. He then chose a violet cap with a yellow feather to match + the court dress, a court sword, high riding boots, and loose turned-over + boots used for walking, but left all other matters to the tailor. + </p> + <p> + “When your man brings the things to me at the auberge Pome d'Or I will pay + him at once,” he said. He was indeed well supplied with funds, for as he + passed through Nancy he had drawn the sums standing to his credit from an + agent there, to whom he had, as occasion offered, transmitted the greater + portion of his pay, and also the balance of the sum that had been paid him + when he first took possession of his estate, after paying for the various + expenses he had incurred in St. Denis and in Paris. Monsieur Poitrou was + faithful to his promise, and although free from vanity, Hector could not + but perceive, after he had donned his court suit, that he made a good + figure. Such, indeed, was the opinion of not a few of the ladies of the + court as he entered the great reception room. + </p> + <p> + He had now adopted the general fashion, and wore his hair in ringlets + hanging down on to the collar. His fair complexion contrasted strongly + with the much darker one of the majority of the courtiers, and this, as + well as his height and erect soldierly bearing, rendered him a conspicuous + object among them. The queen and cardinal both honoured him with marked + attention; but what pleased him most during the evening was the hearty + greeting that he received from Colonel Maclvor, of whom he had seen but + little during the campaign, as the Scottish regiment formed part of + Enghien's command, and was not present at the battle of Nordlingen, being + left in garrison at Metz when the duke marched to join Turenne. Mazarin + himself presented him to many of the ladies of the court, thereby showing + that he wished him to be regarded as a particular friend of his; and + Hector, having gained much in self possession since he had last appeared + there, was able to make himself more agreeable to them than before, to + bandy compliments, and adapt himself to the general atmosphere of the + court. The cardinal sent for him again the next morning. + </p> + <p> + “The news is bad from Poitou, Colonel Campbell, and I think that it would + be well that you should proceed there at once. So we will release you from + further attendance, and you can make up for it by giving us a longer time + on your return.” + </p> + <p> + Hector, however, tarried two days longer in Paris, by which time he had + received all the clothes that he had ordered. Early on the morning of the + third day he mounted and rode away with Paolo and three of his troopers. + Hunter had been left behind at Philippsburg for the cure of a wound that + he had received at Nordlingen. Hector was mounted on one of the horses + that Enghien had given him; the other was in the hands of the + Imperialists. They traveled fast, and met with no adventure until they + arrived at Poitou, where Hector learned that in the western part of the + province the peasants had almost everywhere risen, had defeated the royal + troops who had marched against them from La Rochelle and Nantes, and had + captured and burnt any chateaux, slaying all persons of the better class + who fell into their hands. + </p> + <p> + As he neared his own estate, learning that the tenants there had so far + not joined the rising, but that several bodies of insurgents were in the + neighbourhood, he rode still more rapidly forward. Signs of the trouble + were everywhere apparent. In the villages only women were to be seen; + there was no sign of life or movement in the fields; and he passed two + chateaux which were now but empty shells. As soon as he had crossed into + his own estates he found the houses entirely deserted; no man, woman, nor + child was to be seen; no animals grazed in the fields, and the little + stacks of hay and straw had been carried away. + </p> + <p> + “It is evident,” he said to Paolo, “that MacIntosh has called all the + tenantry into the chateau; had they joined the insurgents the women and + children would still be here.” + </p> + <p> + As they ascended the steep hill on whose brow the chateau stood, he could + make out that there were a number of men posted upon the walls. + </p> + <p> + “He is evidently determined that he will not be caught napping, Paolo, and + all the peasants of Poitou could not take the place unless they were well + provided with cannon.” + </p> + <p> + The chateau, indeed, still retained the characteristics of a castle. The + site had evidently been selected with a sole eye to defence; the hill on + which it stood fell abruptly away on three sides, and could hardly be + attacked except in front. Here a plateau extended some three or four + hundred yards long and upwards of a hundred yards across. A wall with + flanking turrets had been a sufficient defence on the other three sides, + but here there was a strong tower on each flank, and also on each side of + the central gate. The walls inclosed a space of some two acres, in the + centre of which stood the castle. This had been to some extent modernized—windows + having taken the place of loopholes in the upper floors, while those + looking into the inner courtyard extended to the ground. The point where + the road reached the plateau was some three hundred yards from the + gateway, and as Hector galloped towards the walls it was evident that he + was recognized, for shouts were raised by the men on guard and the + drawbridge over the fosse—cut in the solid rock along the foot of + the wall—was lowered. + </p> + <p> + As he rode across it the gate swung open and MacIntosh ran out to meet + him. + </p> + <p> + “Is all well, old friend?” Hector asked as he sprang from his horse and + clasped the sergeant's hand. + </p> + <p> + “All is well so far, colonel; still, I am glad indeed that you have + returned, for at any moment trouble may begin. We hear that the peasants + mean to attack us. I hardly think they will venture to do so, but I have + no doubt they will play havoc on the estate and burn every house, because + the tenants, instead of joining them, have come up here to aid in the + defence. It was a good day indeed when madam and her daughter came here, + they have made themselves so loved by the tenants that they would do + anything for them. Ah, if all the ladies of France had been as good to + their people as they have been, we should not have these troubles on hand! + Here they come to welcome you.” + </p> + <p> + Hector hurried across the outer court, where two lines of palings had been + erected, forming a passage from one gate to the other, and keeping back + the animals that crowded the enclosure. + </p> + <p> + “Welcome back, welcome back, Colonel Campbell!” the baroness said as she + came up with both hands extended, and her words were echoed by her + daughter. In the year that had elapsed since they started under the charge + of Paolo both had changed. The look of care and anxiety, which had been + heightened by the terrible events of the two previous days, had passed + from the elder lady's face, and had been succeeded by one of contentment + and happiness. + </p> + <p> + Norah showed an even greater change; she had now attained her full height, + her figure had filled out, and she stood on the threshold of womanhood and + bid fair to attain a high degree of beauty of the type characteristic of + her nationality. Her hair was dark, her eyes gray, her expression changing + rapidly from grave to gay, the latter movement generally predominating. + </p> + <p> + “I need hardly ask, madam,” Hector said as they entered the chateau, + “whether you have been comfortable here, for your face shows that you have + at least been contented with your lot as chatelaine.” + </p> + <p> + “I have been more than contented, I have been very happy, Monsieur + Campbell. It has been a pleasant task indeed to be your almoner, and to be + able to carry comfort to those in distress, sympathy and aid to those in + suffering. Within the castle, nothing could be more pleasant than our + position. Captain MacIntosh has been unwearied in his efforts to make us + comfortable, and your steward has in all cases been willing to aid me with + money and counsel when I asked for them. The proof that your goodness has + been appreciated by the tenants is that every one of them without + exception has refused to join the insurgents, and has forsaken his home in + order to come up and aid in the defence of the castle.” + </p> + <p> + “That is indeed gratifying, madam; but methinks their action is due rather + to the kindness of yourself and Mademoiselle Norah, than to the gifts they + receive.” + </p> + <p> + “I do not choose to be called Mademoiselle Norah,” the girl said, tossing + her head. “I am Irish on both sides, and have not a drop of French blood + in my veins. To strangers I am Miss Norah O'More; to you, and to any I may + love, I am plain Norah.” + </p> + <p> + “I don't think that you can be that to anyone, Norah.” + </p> + <p> + “Now I don't like that, Colonel Campbell. That may do at the court of + Louis XIV, but not at the chateau of la Villar, and if you are going to + pay compliments I shall be stiff and unpleasant, and shall insist upon + being addressed as Miss Norah O'More.” + </p> + <p> + “As I did not mean to compliment you, for I spoke but the truth, I shall + not accept the penalty. Now,” he went on, “unromantic as it may sound, I + own that I am hungry, and I am sure that my four followers are also, for + we have ridden far and fast, and have not stopped, save to bait our horses + and snatch a mouthful while they ate, since daybreak. In truth the news we + received made me sorely anxious, though I felt sure that MacIntosh could + hold the chateau against any attack that was likely to be made on it.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0019" id="link2HCH0019"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XIX: THE PEASANTS' REVOLT + </h2> + <p> + After eating a meal Hector had a talk aside with MacIntosh. + </p> + <p> + “Do you really think that these varlets will venture to attack us?” + </p> + <p> + “I do indeed,” the old sergeant said. “They have taken several places as + strong as this by sudden assault. They are desperate, and, as I hear, + fight like demons, regardless as to how many fall. As far as stout arms go + we are well supplied, for there are at least a hundred men capable of + bearing arms, and all have had more or less drill since I have been here. + Unfortunately, however, our wall pieces are old and scarce fit for + service, several of them will, I feel sure, burst at the first discharge.” + </p> + <p> + “But they have no artillery at all, MacIntosh?” + </p> + <p> + “I am sorry to say that they have, sir, and a good amount of it. They + captured ten field pieces when they defeated the troops, and have obtained + a score of others from the chateaux that they have taken. They have only + to plant them three or four hundred yards away at the end of the plateau, + and they would easily batter down the gates, and might even in time effect + a breach in the walls.” + </p> + <p> + “That is serious indeed, MacIntosh. Is there any other way in which they + can attack us save in front?” + </p> + <p> + “I think not. I was careful to examine the face of the precipice when I + first took command here, and wherever it seemed to me that an active man + could climb up I had portions of the rock blown up, and have so scarped + the face that I do not think it is scalable by human foot. But there is + nothing to prevent their crossing the fosse on a dark night, and so + stealing along and making an attack on all sides of the house.” + </p> + <p> + “Then our first care must be to prevent this, MacIntosh, by building walls + along by the fosse from the corner towers to the edge of the plateau. The + distance is very short, not more than eight or ten yards at the outside. + We have, I see, any number of horses and not a few carts. Let the tenants + be set to work at once, and, going down the road into the ravine below, + fill their carts with blocks of stone and haul them up here. Let active + boys be sent out in all directions as scouts to bring in word when the + insurgents are approaching; and at the same time let twenty well armed men + of the garrison go down with the carts, so as to give confidence to the + tenants and cover their retreat up the road if the insurgents should + suddenly make their appearance. Let some of the men take billhooks and + axes down with them, and cut poles. These must be sharpened, and as the + walls are built, fixed among the stones so as to make a cheval-de-frise. + At the same time let half a dozen stout ladders be constructed, so that + the defenders of these walls may, if unable to hold them, make their + retreat up to the battlements. I wish now that I had ordered a strong + bastion to be thrown up so as to cover the gate from an attack by + artillery, but it did not seem likely that we should be besieged by any + force having guns, and I let the matter remain until the tenants should be + better off and we could spend our money on such work. However, it is too + late now to think of that. I suppose there is a portcullis to the gate?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, and I got it in good working order when I first came here; but the + cannon would speedily shatter that, as well as the bridge drawn up in + front of it and the gate behind it.” + </p> + <p> + “Then as I have no doubt that there are plenty of flour sacks, we must + fill these with earth and pack them between the bridge and the portcullis, + and fasten the bridge in its place with any chains that may be available, + so that it will keep erect. The earth packing, however much it may be + battered, will protect the portcullis of the gate for some time against + their fire.” + </p> + <p> + “It is a good idea if we have time to carry it out, colonel. We have still + four or five hours' daylight, and as I think that this is of even greater + importance than the side walls, we will set the tenants to work at once, + and it will save time if they take down the sacks, of which, as you say, + we have an abundance.” + </p> + <p> + A few minutes later a dozen active boys left the castle, and scattered to + various points on the hills around, so as to command a view over a + considerable extent of country. Soon after, some thirty carts went down + the road accompanied by a number of men with shovels, and twenty of the + garrison commanded by one of the old soldiers. All returned loaded with + sacks of earth; these were taken into the castle, when the portcullis was + lowered and the drawbridge across the fosse raised. An opening was left on + the top to allow the sacks to be lowered into the space between the bridge + and the portcullis. A score of men with ropes went on to the wall above + and lowered them behind the drawbridge, where five or six men stowed them + away. As soon as it became dark torches were lighted, and by ten o'clock a + solid mass of sacks filled with earth were packed in the space between the + portcullis and the drawbridge. + </p> + <p> + The night passed off quietly, the horses and carts remaining beyond the + fosse. Planks had been placed across one end of this, and the horses and + carts taken over. The horses were picketed round the castle, a supply of + forage being placed there for their use, while the carts were packed + closely by the fosse, so as to form an obstacle to any of the assailants + who might try to pass. At daybreak they were again run across the planks, + the horses brought round and harnessed, the scouts being sent out as on + the day before. All day the work went on, and by nightfall two walls + twenty feet long and eight feet high, bristling with pointed staves, were + erected. They stood some twenty feet back from the edge of the fosse, and + extended from the wall to the verge of the precipice. The carts and horses + had, before the walls were built, been taken round to the back of the + castle, where the plateau extended some fifty yards beyond the defences. + Evening was just coming on when the boys came in, two of them bringing a + report that a great crowd of men could be seen approaching from the west. + </p> + <p> + MacIntosh, with thirty men, were at once lowered down from the + battlements, and took up their places in an intrenchment which had been + during the day thrown up at the point where the road came up to the + plateau, while a score of the tenants assembled at the edge of the cliff, + where great piles of blocks of stone had been collected in readiness to + throw down. Lighted torches were placed at intervals along the road, and + three or four great cressets, holding balls of tow soaked in turpentine + and oil, were set up on the edge of the plateau; these were to be lighted + when the peasants attempted to mount the hill. + </p> + <p> + An hour passed, and then a flame sprang up from a house and outbuildings + in the valley, lighting up the ground around and showing that a great + crowd was gathered on the road there. + </p> + <p> + “How many should you say there were, MacIntosh?” + </p> + <p> + “I should put them at four or five thousand.” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, they are certainly not short of four thousand. What wild looking + figures! They are just the same in appearance as those who attacked Madame + de Blenfoix's chateau. See, they are lighting torches, and I expect they + mean to make an attack at once. Their guns are with that group in the rear + of the others; at any rate they will not be of any use in assisting them + to make their way up this road. They are evidently working themselves up + to a state of madness. There are half a dozen fellows addressing them from + various points.” + </p> + <p> + The men who had been brought down to guard the intrenchments at the head + of the road were all armed with muskets, and carried in addition long + pikes. Presently a roar of shouts and yells was heard, and then there was + a rush on the part of the crowd towards the foot of the long ascent. + </p> + <p> + Hector moved to the place where the tenants were posted. + </p> + <p> + “Do not hurl a single stone down until I give you the word, nor light the + cressets; the torches they carry will be quite sufficient for us to make + them out, and the attack will be all the more successful if it comes as a + surprise.” + </p> + <p> + Then he returned to the breastwork. The men here had been posted by + MacIntosh eight abreast. When the head of the column of insurgents were + halfway up the hill they opened a scattered fire; they had armed + themselves with the muskets they had taken from the troops. + </p> + <p> + “Their guns will be of little use to them, for few of them can ever have + had firearms in their hands before; do not fire a shot, MacIntosh, until I + give the order. It is clear that someone must have told them that we have + thrown up this intrenchment today, or they would not have wasted their + ammunition.” + </p> + <p> + Not a shot was fired until the leaders of the peasants were within forty + yards. Up to this time no torches had been shown in the intrenchments, but + now these were suddenly brought forward, and Hector, in his helmet and + body armour, mounted on to the breastwork. The head of the column paused + on seeing a row of levelled muskets and three rows of pikes forming a + hedge of steel. + </p> + <p> + “My men,” Hector shouted in a loud clear voice, “halt, I beseech you, + before harm comes to you! I know that you have sore grievances, I know + that you and your wives and families are well nigh famishing, but how do + you think that you will better your condition by assaulting castles and + burning down chateaux? You are but preparing labour for yourselves and + heaping up fresh imposts on your own heads, for it is you who will have to + rebuild them, it is you who will have to pay for the damage that you have + done. At any rate, none can say that you have cause for enmity against me + and mine, for I have done all in my power to mitigate the sufferings of my + people, and the proof is that not one of them has joined you. The taxes + that press so heavily upon you are not the work of your feudal lords, they + are caused by the necessity for defending France against the assaults of + foreign enemies, and were every noble in the land slain it would still be + necessary that these taxes should be collected, unless France is to be + overrun by the Spaniards and Austrians. I would fain abstain from spilling + one drop of your blood, but I must defend myself if you attack me, and I + warn you that, numerous as you are, you will not succeed in capturing my + castle. I am a soldier of France, and as I have shed my blood in defending + her against her enemies, so if you persist I shall not hesitate in + shedding yours in my own defence. I implore you to disperse to your homes; + even if you gain successes for a time, it would but draw down vengeance + upon you.” + </p> + <p> + The assailants had paused when he commenced to speak, and those in front + had listened to his words, but those behind, not knowing what was going + on, continued to shout and to press up the hill. As he finished speaking + there was a yell of defiance, and the column rushed forward. + </p> + <p> + “Aim low,” Hector shouted as he leapt down among his men, “fire!” Eight + muskets flashed out. “Second line, fire! Now handle your pikes, the rear + lines will reserve their fire.” + </p> + <p> + Although ten or twelve of the leading rank of the insurgents had fallen, + there was no pause among the others, and they rushed forward to the hedge + of pikes. + </p> + <p> + “Take charge here, MacIntosh; I will run and get the stones at work.” In + half a minute he stood by the side of the tenants. + </p> + <p> + “Heave then down!” he said. He had chosen a spot where the rock rose + perpendicularly above the road. “Drop them over,” he said, “so that they + may fall straight. The biggest you must roll over with your levers, but + work them to the edge and let them topple over; don't thrust them out or + they will bound over the road. Now!” + </p> + <p> + Twenty rocks were dropped down together. Even above the din of shouting + the crash as they fell below was heard, followed instantly by yells and + cries. + </p> + <p> + “Move farther on and give them another shower,” Hector said; and again the + rocks fell on the crowded causeway. The first volley had caused a pause—numbers + had been crushed, many of the stones as they rolled down the road had + carried confusion to those below; the second volley completed their + discomfiture. Appalled by a discharge against which they had no shelter + and which was wholly unexpected, those near whom the stones had fallen + turned, and in their panic swept those below them on the road down into + the valley, many being overthrown and trampled to death. Ignorant of what + was going on behind them, the crowd above the spot where the stones had + fallen were still pressing upward, those in front hewing with their + scythes and axes at the pikeheads. + </p> + <p> + Hector ran back there. “The two rear ranks will now fire!” he said. + </p> + <p> + The men dropped their pikes, and two volleys of musketry were poured into + the insurgents. Those of the front line were swept away by the fire, and + for a moment the whole recoiled. + </p> + <p> + “Now, men,” Hector shouted, “cross the breastwork and sweep them away with + your pikes!” + </p> + <p> + With a cheer the men leapt over the embankment. There was room for ten + abreast, and in a treble line with levelled spears they bore down upon the + rebels. The charge was irresistible. A few of the leaders of the peasants + threw themselves on to the spears and died there, the others strove, but + in vain, to fly. Their comrades behind, ignorant of what was going on, + still pressed up, and it was not until the screams and shouts of those in + front, and the pressure downwards, brought the column to a stand and then + bore it backward, that they learned that the defenders had taken the + offensive, and were sweeping all before them. Then a panic arose, and the + peasants rushed down the road, the tenants above saluting them as they + passed with another volley of rocks. Halfway down the hill Hector halted + his men, and led them up to the intrenchment again over a road encumbered + with dead bodies. + </p> + <p> + “I think that will do,” he said. “After the tale those who have got down + safely will have to tell, we may be sure they will do nothing until + morning, and it may well be that they may think it advisable to be off to + attack some other place not so strongly defended. However, we will + presently beat them up, and if possible capture their cannon, and without + them they could not hope to take any fortified house well defended.” + </p> + <p> + For a time there was a prodigious din in the valley, sounds of men + shouting and quarrelling, of others trying in vain to make their voices + heard, and to address the excited peasants. In an hour it quieted down, + and by midnight all was still. Hector had been busy with his preparations. + </p> + <p> + “How many horses have we?” he asked. + </p> + <p> + “Well nigh a hundred, colonel.” + </p> + <p> + “That is more than enough. Now, MacIntosh, do you and the men here go down + the road and pitch the bodies over; we should never get the horses over + them.” + </p> + <p> + Then he went to where the tenants were still waiting. “Now, my lads,” he + said, “I want a big gap made in one of these walls we built today, wide + enough for a horse to pass through it, and strong planks laid across the + fosse.” Then he ascended the ladder up to the battlements. He found the + baroness and her daughter standing over the gateway. + </p> + <p> + “Is all over?” they asked, as he came up to them. + </p> + <p> + “Yes, for the present. We have beaten them handsomely, and without the + loss of a single man.” + </p> + <p> + “Will they attack again in the morning, do you think?” + </p> + <p> + “I feel sure that they will not do so. You see, they relied upon their + cannon for taking the chateau, and they find they are useless. I am going + to make a sortie before daybreak, for I want to capture those cannon. So + long as they hold them they will continue their work, and they may not + always meet with so stout a resistance. The loss of their cannon will + dishearten them, as well as lessen their power for evil. I shall take + every man who can carry arms, and leave ten at the breastwork to defend + it; but there is no chance whatever of their attempting to come up here + while we are attacking them, so you need have no fear.” + </p> + <p> + “We shall not be afraid, Colonel Campbell, our confidence in you is + absolute; but do you not think that you are running a great risk in + attacking a force some forty times as large as your own?” + </p> + <p> + “One cannot call it a force, it is simply a mob, and a mob that has + suffered a terrible repulse, and the loss of three or four hundred men + tonight. We shall take them by surprise. I am going to mount all the + tenants. MacIntosh tells me that they have all been drilled as cavalry as + well as infantry. He, with the twenty men of the regular garrison on foot + and ten of the tenants, will make straight for the guns. I shall be with + the horsemen, and as soon as we have scattered the mob, we will harness + the horses to the guns and bring them up here, so that I shall strengthen + the castle as well as weaken the peasants.” + </p> + <p> + The tenants were all informed of what was going to be done. + </p> + <p> + “It will be to your benefit as well as ours,” he said, “for you may be + sure that in the morning, if they give up the idea of again attacking us, + they will scatter all over the estates and sack and burn every house, + whereas if we succeed in dispersing them, no small portion of them will at + once scatter to their homes, and the rest will take care not to come near + this neighbourhood again.” + </p> + <p> + At twelve o'clock MacIntosh sent a man to say that the road down was + clear, and that three hundred and twenty dead bodies had been thrown over. + At three o'clock in the morning the horses, round whose hoofs pieces of + sacking had been tied, were led across the fosse. One of MacIntosh's + sergeants was put in charge of the ten men who were to remain at the + intrenchment, the castle being left entirely in the hands of the women and + boys. The mounted tenants were eighty in number, all carrying long spears + and swords. The torches had long since burnt out, and each man leading his + horse went noiselessly down the road, MacIntosh with the footmen leading + the way. They halted at the bottom of the road. There was no sound from + the spot where the insurgents were lying a couple of hundred yards down + the valley, fatigued by a very long march on the previous day, and the + exertion of dragging the cannon, for only a few of these were horsed. + Presently the day began to break, but not until it became light enough to + see perfectly, did Hector give the order to mount, and leaping into the + saddle prepared to lead them. + </p> + <p> + The mounted men had been divided into four bands of twenty each. Paolo and + the three troopers each took the command of a party. Hector's orders were: + “Keep together until the peasants are in full flight, then separate in + pursuit. The movement must be put down or the whole province will be + ruined, therefore give no quarter, and pursue until your horses are tired, + then return here. Now, MacIntosh, do you advance straight upon the guns; + it is probable that they are all loaded, therefore carry them with a rush. + The moment we see you engaged we will charge.” + </p> + <p> + The horsemen were in single line, extending from side to side of the + valley. Hector kept his eye upon MacIntosh's party. They were close to the + guns before any of the sleepers awoke. Then there was a sudden shout, and + numbers of the men rushed to the cannon. MacIntosh was there as soon as + they were, and pouring in a volley rushed upon the guns. At the same + moment Hector gave the word to charge, and with levelled spears the + horsemen rode down into the midst of the crowd. Appalled by this sudden + attack, which was wholly unexpected, the resistance was but slight. Many + of the peasants at once threw away their arms and fled. Those who resisted + were speared or overthrown by the horses. As the valley widened the four + troops separated a little, each cutting a way for itself through the + peasants. It was no longer a fight; and a wild panic seized upon the whole + of the insurgents. Some rushed straight down the valley, others ran up the + opposite hillside; but the slope here was gradual, and the horsemen were + able to pursue. + </p> + <p> + “Paolo, take your troop up the hill. Let the others keep straight down the + valley.” And, heading these, Hector galloped on, shouting to MacIntosh to + harness what teams there were to some of the guns and take them up to the + top of the road, and then bring the horses back for some more. + </p> + <p> + For two hours the pursuit continued. Occasionally a group of peasants + gathered together and tried to stem the tide, but these were speedily + overcome, the long spears bearing them down without their being able to + strike a blow at the riders, and at the end of that time the insurgents + were scattered over a wide extent of country, all flying for their lives. + Hector now ordered trumpets to sound; he was soon joined by the other + troops, and at a leisurely pace they rode back to their starting point. + Not more than half the guns had as yet been taken up, for MacIntosh had + found it necessary to put double teams to them in order to drag them up + the steep road. The mounted men had all brought ropes with them, and, + dismounting, eight yoked their horses to each gun, and in an hour the + whole were brought up to the plateau, the drawbridge was lowered, the + sacks of earth cleared away, and the portcullis raised, the gates thrown + open, and the garrison filed into the courtyard, greeted by cries of + welcome from the women. + </p> + <p> + “I think that we have crushed the insurrection in this part of Poitou,” + Hector said to Madame de Blenfoix. “We have certainly killed six or seven + hundred of them, and I am sure that the remainder will never rally. We + will rest today, and tomorrow morning we will set to work to complete the + defences of the chateau, so that it may be held by a comparatively small + number of men.” + </p> + <p> + The joy of the women was extreme when they found that not a single man had + fallen, though a few had received gashes more or less severe. The next + morning the whole of the men and boys set to work under Hector's + directions. The intrenchment at the top of the road was greatly + strengthened, an opening through which a cart could pass being left in the + middle. + </p> + <p> + A gun was placed on each side of this, and twenty sacks of earth laid down + by the side of the opening, so that this in the course of a few minutes + could be closed, and a gun placed close by run into position between the + other two. The greater part of the men, however, were employed in raising + a mound of stones and earth in front of the gateway, so as to cover this + from the fire of any guns which, after the outward intrenchment had been + stormed, might be brought up on to the plateau. The women, and even the + children, assisted in the work by carrying earth, while men, with the + horses and carts, brought stones up from the valley. + </p> + <p> + It took a fortnight's hard work before the outwork was completed. It was + twenty feet high, triangular in form, and solid in construction. Many of + the tenants were accustomed to stonework; and while the rest of the + bastion was constructed of rough stones mixed with earth, a parapet four + feet thick, of roughly dressed stones, was carried along on the crest of + the two outward sides. Four guns were mounted here; the rest of the cannon + were placed on the outer wall instead of the honeycombed guns before in + position, and the castle was thus prepared to stand a regular siege. + </p> + <p> + Hector remained for a week after the work was completed, paid the tenants + liberally for the services they had rendered, and dismissed them to their + homes, for the terrible blow that had been inflicted upon them had so + cowed the peasants that order had been completely restored in that part of + Poitou. Then, after taking an affectionate adieu of Madame de Blenfoix and + her daughter, he rode back to Paris, where he remained for two months. + </p> + <p> + At the end of that time, being heartily tired of the frivolity and + intrigues, and disgusted at the immorality of the court, he obtained leave + from Mazarin to rejoin his regiment, as the campaign might be expected to + open shortly again. The cardinal had warmly congratulated him upon the + suppression of the insurrection in Poitou, of which he had received full + details from his agents long before Hector reached Paris. + </p> + <p> + “I have always exhorted the officers and the troops engaged in putting + down these risings to spill no more blood than is absolutely necessary. + But it needed a great lesson, such as you have given them. Otherwise, as + soon as the troops were withdrawn the peasants would rise again.” + </p> + <p> + Turenne had also been in Paris, and had strongly represented to Mazarin + the necessity for the armies of France and Sweden in Germany acting + together, since while they were acting separately, and at great distances + apart, the Austrians and Bavarians could unite and crush the one, while + the other could offer it no assistance. It was owing to this that the + conquests made by the troop of France and Weimar had been repeatedly + wrested from them. The cardinal listened to his advice, and determined to + bring about a union between the two armies of the confederation. In the + meantime a conference was going on at Munster between the representatives + of the various conflicting powers, but each put forward such exorbitant + demands that no progress was made. + </p> + <p> + The Duke of Bavaria, indignant at the small support that Austria had given + him, was playing off France against the latter power. Mazarin was + persuaded that he was only waiting for an opportunity to desert the + Imperialist cause, and therefore ordered Turenne not to cross the Rhine, + as the duke had promised that he would remain neutral unless the French + advanced into Germany, when the feelings of his subjects might force him + to take the field again on the side of Austria. + </p> + <p> + Turenne was therefore ordered to besiege Luxembourg. The marshal, however, + had no belief in the Bavarian promises, and on arriving on the Rhine early + in April, and seeing that were he to march with his army away to + Luxembourg the cause of France and Germany would be lost, he continued to + make various excuses for not moving, until the Duke of Bavaria, having + obtained many concessions from Austria, threw off the mask, and marching + with his army joined that of the emperor in Franconia. Thus the whole + Imperial forces were posted between the French and the Swedes. + </p> + <p> + Turenne saw that his only hope of success would be to effect a juncture + with the Swedes, and wrote to the cardinal to that effect; then, without + waiting for an answer, he set his army in motion. A tremendous circuit had + to be made. He forded the Moselle six leagues above Coblenz, the bridges + over the Rhine being all in possession of the enemy, marched up into + Holland, and obtained permission from the king to cross at Wesel, which he + reached after fourteen days' march. Crossing the Rhine on the 15th of July + he marched through the country of La Mark, and through Westphalia, and on + the 10th of August joined the Swedes under General Wrangel, who had + received news of his coming, and had intrenched himself so strongly that + the enemy, who had arrived before him, did not venture to attack him. The + enemy now fell back at once and encamped near Freiburg. Their army was + superior in force to that of the allies, they having fourteen thousand + horse and ten thousand foot, while the allies had but ten thousand horse + and seven thousand foot. The allies had, however, sixty pieces of cannon + against fifty of the Imperialists. The allies advanced to Freiburg and + offered battle, but the Archduke Leopold, who commanded the Imperialists, + declined to come out of the great intrenchments he had thrown up round his + camp. + </p> + <p> + Turenne then marched towards the Maine, and, halting ten leagues from + Mayence, sent for the infantry, of which he had left a portion there, to + join him. The whole force of the allies was now united, and took many + towns. As, however, they were still inferior in force to the Imperialists, + Turenne refused to weaken himself by placing garrisons in these places, + contenting himself with blowing up the fortifications of some and carrying + off the principal inhabitants of others as hostages. The Imperialist army + still remained inactive, and Turenne was able therefore to turn his + attention to Bavaria. Crossing the Rhine at Donauwurth he besieged + Augsburg and Rain. The latter place was captured, but the former, being + reinforced by fifteen hundred men, held out stoutly, and it was necessary + to open trenches and proceed in regular form against it. The Duke of + Bavaria, greatly alarmed at this invasion of his dominions, sent off + message after message to the emperor, complaining of the manner in which + the Imperial army remained inactive, leaving the allies to employ their + whole force against him. He threatened that unless the army advanced at + once to his assistance he would make terms with France. Imperative orders + were thereupon sent to the archduke to move against the French. The allies + fell back, as his force was greatly superior to theirs, and the archduke + took up a strong position, intending to force the allies to retire into + Franconia as soon as the country round them was exhausted. + </p> + <p> + Turenne and Wrangel divined his purpose, and although it was now the + beginning of November and snow was on the ground, they marched against + him. On arriving near his camp they found that it was strongly fortified, + and could be attacked only by passing behind great marshes and defiles. + Changing their intentions, they left two thousand horse in front of his + camp, making believe that they intended to attack him, then marched with + all haste to the Lech and advanced against Landsberg, which they took by + assault. In the city were the principal magazines of the Imperialist army, + and the allies, finding sufficient provisions there to last for six + months, encamped round the city and decided to winter there unless + attacked, in the meantime sending out bodies of cavalry, which levied + contributions up to the very gates of Munich. Leopold, thus deprived of + his magazines, retired with the Austrian contingent, and the Bavarians + returned home. + </p> + <p> + The Duke of Bavaria, finding that his whole dominions would be captured + unless he made terms, therefore opened negotiations, and on the 14th of + March, 1646, peace was signed, the terms being that he should separate + himself entirely from the empire and deliver five of his fortresses to the + allies, who would thus, should he again break his word, have means of + access into his dominions. The allied forces were now in a condition to + march upon Vienna. They had during the winter plundered a large portion of + Bavaria; they and their horses had recovered from their fatigue, and their + force now amounted to fourteen thousand foot and twenty thousand horse. At + this moment, when the Imperialists believed that all was lost, for without + the assistance of Bavaria they could put no army in the field that could + hope to make head against the allies, Mazarin interposed and saved Austria + from destruction. + </p> + <p> + The Catholic powers had long been privately urging upon him the danger + that would arise should Austria be crushed. The Swedes would acquire very + large accessions of territory, the Protestant German princes, their + allies, would similarly benefit, and Protestantism would become the + dominant religion in Germany. Such would, indeed, have undoubtedly been + the case had the allies marched to Vienna and dictated terms of peace + there. An order was therefore sent to Turenne to march with his army to + Flanders, where the Spaniards were gaining great advantages, as Enghien, + now become Prince of Conde by the death of his father, had been sent into + Catalonia with the greater portion of his army. Turenne, foreseeing that + his German regiments would refuse to march to Flanders, leaving their own + country open to invasion and plunder by the Imperialists, warmly opposed + the plan, and sent messenger after messenger to the cardinal urging him to + countermand the order. The friends of Bavaria and the Catholic princes + urged strongly upon the queen that the continuance of the war would + utterly destroy the Catholic religion in Germany, and that the Swedes + alone would reap advantage from the fall of the house of Austria. Moved by + their arguments and those of Mazarin to the same effect, she supported the + latter, and peremptory orders were sent to Turenne to march to Flanders, + where matters were going from bad to worse. Turenne obeyed them, captured + on his march towards the Rhine several towns and fortresses, destroying + their fortifications so that they would not be able to oppose him if he + returned to Germany. But on arriving on the Rhine his anticipations of + trouble were fulfilled. General Rosen, whose blunder had been the cause of + the disaster at Marienthal, and who had since his return from captivity + persistently worked in opposition to Turenne, fomented discontent among + the troops of Weimar, and directly they crossed the Rhine they absolutely + refused to advance. They had just cause for complaint; they had fought + with distinguished valour, and they alone had saved the French army from + suffering crushing defeat at Nordlingen; their pay was six months in + arrear, and the proposal now that they should leave their own country and + fight in Flanders was naturally most repugnant to them. They at once + marched away towards Strasburg. Turenne followed them with three thousand + infantry, four French regiments of horse, and the only one of the Weimar + cavalry that had remained faithful to him, and came up just as they were + about to recross the Rhine. + </p> + <p> + Partly by entreaties, partly by showing his confidence in them, by putting + himself wholly in their power, the marshal induced a portion of the Weimar + cavalry to return to their duty. General Rosen, who was to a large extent + responsible for the mutiny, was arrested and imprisoned at Philippsburg, + the rest of the mutineers rode away with the loss of a portion of their + number, and joined the Swedes. After this the order for Turenne to march + to Flanders was countermanded. + </p> + <p> + The war languished for a few months, the Imperialists were defeated after + a hard fought cavalry battle by Turenne and the Swedes, and the country + was overrun by the latter, whose horsemen raided almost up to Innsbruck. + But all parties were growing weary of the conflict, which had now lasted + thirty years. It had inflicted incredible suffering upon all who were + concerned in it, and had produced no important results whatever, except + that it had prevented the entire crushing out of Protestantism in Germany, + and the peace conference for the first time began to work in earnest. + </p> + <p> + At last, after Bavaria had been wasted from end to end, and the duke + driven into exile, peace was concluded, the emperor yielding every point + demanded by France, as he saw plainly enough that unless he did so + Turenne's army would be at the gates of Vienna at the commencement of the + next campaign, and in October, 1648, hostilities ceased. Turenne went to + Munster and acted as the French negotiator in arranging the peace, to + which his genius, steadfast determination, and the expenditure of his own + means, by which he had kept the army on foot, had so largely contributed. + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0020" id="link2HCH0020"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XX: AN OLD SCORE + </h2> + <p> + Hector was not present with the army during the last three campaigns of + the war. He had joined Turenne in April, 1646, and shared in the general + disappointment when the order was received that the army was not to cross + the Rhine, because Bavaria had promised to remain neutral if it did not do + so. + </p> + <p> + “I cannot think,” the marshal said to him a day or two after he received + the order—for he had always maintained the same pleasant relations + with Hector that had subsisted between them in Italy, and placed the most + entire confidence in the discretion of the young colonel—“how + Mazarin can allow Bavaria to hoodwink him. Indeed, I cannot believe that + he is really deceived; he must know that that crafty old fox the duke is + not to be relied upon in any way, and that he is merely trying to save + time. 'Tis hard indeed to see us powerless to move, now that the season + for campaigning is just opening, and when by advancing we could cut the + Bavarians off from Austria. As to besieging Luxembourg, it would be but a + waste of time, for before we could open a trench we should hear that the + duke has again declared against us, and we should have to hurry back with + all speed.” + </p> + <p> + It was, indeed, but a fortnight later that the news came that the + Bavarians were on the move to join the Imperialists, and a fortnight later + it was known that the two armies had effected their junction. Turenne at + once collected his troops from the towns and villages where they were + placed, and marched to Mayence. + </p> + <p> + “I am going to send you to Paris, Campbell,” he said on the evening of + their arrival there. “All is lost if the enemy, now united, throw + themselves upon the Swedes, and I have resolved to take upon myself the + responsibility of marching round through Holland and joining Wrangel. + There is, of course, risk in such an expedition, and the cardinal may + object very strongly to my undertaking such a movement, especially as it + will leave the frontier of France virtually unguarded, but I have no fear + that evil consequences will arise. The enemy will not hear of my march + until ten days after I have started, and even then they will probably + suppose that we have gone to Flanders. By the time they find out what my + intentions are, it will be too late for them to take advantage of my + absence. + </p> + <p> + “Even then they would have to storm Philippsburg or some other strong + place before they could cross the Rhine, and before they could do that + Wrangel and I would be at their heels. Moreover, as they would know that, + instead of pursuing them, we might, after effecting a junction, make + straight for Vienna, and that no army could be got together to oppose us, + I consider that the movement is a perfectly safe one. Now, I am going to + send you to Mazarin with my despatch telling him of my intention. I am + choosing you for the purpose, because you will be able to explain and + enforce the reasons that I have given him. He has a high opinion of you, + and will listen to you when perhaps he would not pay any regard to Rosen + or any other of these Weimar officers I might send. Remember that there is + no occasion for extreme hurry,” and he smiled. “Of course it is necessary + that you should travel with a certain amount of speed, but do not founder + your horse. Every day is of value to me, and if I am once well on my way + north Mazarin could hardly recall me. + </p> + <p> + “Say that you take five days to get to Paris, by that time I should be + north of Cologne, and a courier from Mazarin can hardly overtake me until + I am in Holland, I should then feel justified in disregarding the order, + seeing that I should by pushing on effect a junction with the Swedes quite + as quickly as I could return here. Of course it would be too late for you + to overtake me, and I shall give you a written order to remain in Paris + until I am again so near the Rhine that you can join your regiment. I + consider that it will be an advantage to have you near the cardinal, as, + knowing my intentions and methods as you do, you would be able to so + explain matters to him that he will understand the reasons for my various + movements.” + </p> + <p> + “Very well marshal, I am ready to start as soon as you hand me the + despatch.” + </p> + <p> + “I will do that tomorrow morning, and you will then be able to tell + Mazarin that we were just setting out when you left us.” + </p> + <p> + “As it will be some time before I shall rejoin my regiment, may I ask you + to appoint Captain de Thiou as second colonel? He has now served as senior + captain of the regiment for three years. He aided me heartily and + cordially in organizing it. He has seconded me throughout in a manner of + which I cannot speak too highly, and distinguished himself greatly at + Freiburg, and on every occasion in which we have been in contact with the + enemy. I think it very desirable that there should be an officer of rank + superior to the others while I am away; and both for the sake of the + regiment, and as a reward for the merit and conduct of Captain de Thiou + himself, I should be very glad were he promoted and should feel that the + regiment would in no way deteriorate during my absence.” + </p> + <p> + “Certainly, Campbell, I will carry out your recommendation. He has fairly + earned his promotion, and as you say, it is better in your absence that + the regiment should be led by an officer of rank above the others, and not + by a captain having but a very slight seniority to some of them. Doubtless + you will be saying goodbye to the officers tonight. I authorize you to + inform de Thiou that he will be placed in orders tomorrow morning as + second colonel of the regiment.” + </p> + <p> + “I did not think that we were likely to be back in Paris before next + winter, master,” Paolo said rather discontentedly when Hector told him + that they were to start early next morning. + </p> + <p> + “Nor did I, Paolo, and I should very much rather have remained with the + regiment; but as the marshal is good enough to consider that my presence + there may be of advantage to him, I have of course nothing to say against + it.” + </p> + <p> + There was great regret among the officers when they heard that their + colonel was not going to lead them, but all were pleased that de Thiou, + who was a general favourite, had obtained promotion. That officer was at + once surprised and gratified at the news, for it was not often that men + without strong family interest rose to the rank of colonel. + </p> + <p> + “I know that this is your doing,” he said gratefully. “I never expected to + get above my present rank, and I am sure that I should never have done so + had it not been for you.” + </p> + <p> + “You thoroughly deserve it, de Thiou, for it was by your support that I + was enabled, when I first joined, to introduce reforms, and get the + officers to take upon themselves more work and responsibilities, and thus + make the regiment what it is. I hope I shall rejoin before the end of the + campaign. This may be the last, for now that they have begun the peace + conference at Munster, something must surely come of it sooner or later, + for all parties must be thoroughly sick of this long and terrible war, + which has ruined Germany and impoverished France, and from which neither + party, after nigh thirty years of fighting, has gained any material + advantage. At any rate it will be a great satisfaction to me to know that + the regiment is in your hands. I know that during the time that I have + been away this winter things have gone on satisfactorily; but it is + clearly impossible for an officer to keep a regiment well in hand when, as + in your case, your appointment was only a day or two earlier than that of + some of the others. You are likely to have some stiff marching now, for + only one other infantry regiment besides ours will accompany the cavalry, + the rest will remain here until they get an opportunity of rejoining. Of + course I shall take Paolo and my four mounted troopers back with me to + Paris. I may probably send them on to la Villar, as it is not likely that + I shall need them at court.” + </p> + <p> + On the evening of the fifth day after leaving Mayence Hector arrived in + Paris, and alighted at the cardinal's hotel. + </p> + <p> + “So you are again a bearer of despatches, Monsieur Campbell,” the cardinal + said, as Hector entered his apartment. “They need be important, or the + marshal would hardly have sent you with them.” + </p> + <p> + “They are, as you will see, important, your eminence, but I am sent rather + to explain further than the marshal could do in a letter his reasons for + the step that he has taken. As you have learned long before this, the Duke + of Bavaria has proved false to his promises. He has effected a junction + with the Imperialist army, and the marshal has news that both are marching + against the Swedes, who are in no strength to show fight against so great + a force.” + </p> + <p> + The cardinal opened the despatch, and read it in silence. + </p> + <p> + “'Tis a grave step for the marshal to have taken without orders,” he said, + frowning; “and do you mean to say that he has already started on this + expedition?” + </p> + <p> + “The troops had fallen into their ranks when I started, and by this time + they must be well on their way towards Holland. There was no time, sir, + for the marshal to await a reply to the despatch. The matter was most + urgent, every day was of importance, for if the Swedes fell back, as they + might do, before the archduke, the latter would be able to overrun all + northern Germany, to capture the towns of the Protestant princes, break up + their confederation, and compel them to give in their submission; for + Turenne with his small force would be powerless to interfere with their + operations, even if by pressing after them with all speed he arrived + within striking distance.” + </p> + <p> + “And think you that he will reach Wrangel in time?” + </p> + <p> + “He hopes so, sir. He sent off a messenger before starting, with orders to + buy fresh horses at all cost at each halting place, to carry the news as + quickly as possible to Wrangel that he was on his way to join him, and + imploring him to intrench himself in some strong position until he should + come up. + </p> + <p> + “How long hence will that be?” + </p> + <p> + “The march will be pressed forward with all speed, your eminence, with + such delays only as may be needed to keep the horses in such a state that + they may be ready for fighting as soon as they join the Swedes. He hopes + to be there in a month from the day of starting.” + </p> + <p> + “And in the meantime,” Mazarin said, “France is open to invasion. He says, + indeed, that the Imperialists would hardly venture to march hitherward, as + thereby they in turn would leave it open to him and the Swedes to march + into the heart of Austria.” + </p> + <p> + “Assuredly that is so, sir. The archduke will hardly get news that Marshal + Turenne has moved until he has been some ten or twelve days on his march, + and even when he hears it he will not know in what direction he has gone, + but may think it likely that he either intends to seize Luxembourg or to + reinforce your army in Flanders. By the time they discover his true object + he will be within a week's march of the Swedes, possibly less than that. + It will be too late for them then to think of marching to the Rhine. If + they consider themselves strong enough to fight the marshal and the Swedes + together, they will do so at once; if they fear to give battle, still more + would they fear to be attacked by him when entering a country where they + would have him in their rear, and be hemmed in between him and the Rhine, + not to speak of the risk of leaving Austria open to invasion, should he, + instead of pursuing them, direct his march thither. If I might presume to + judge, I should say that the expedition that the marshal has undertaken is + at once worthy of his military genius, and will at the same time do far + more to ensure the safety of the Rhine provinces than he could do were he + to remain there with his small army until the Imperialists, having chased + the Swedes out of the country and reduced northern Germany, turned their + whole forces against him.” + </p> + <p> + “I see, Monsieur Campbell,” the cardinal said, turning the subject, “that + you have been five days coming here from Mayence. It is a very different + rate of speed to that at which you traveled from Rocroi.” + </p> + <p> + “It is so, your eminence; but on that occasion the Duc d'Enghien had + placed relays of his best horses all along the road, so that we were + enabled to travel without making a halt.” + </p> + <p> + “And moreover, my dear colonel,” Mazarin said, “Turenne, far from urging + you to haste, was desirous of getting so far before he received my answer + as to render it impossible for me to recall him.” + </p> + <p> + “I cannot think that your eminence would do that. It is a grand + enterprise, and almost without precedent in point both of daring and in + the great advantages to be gained from it.” + </p> + <p> + “And Turenne thought that by sending you, you would be able to assist him + in persuading me to regard it favourably. Well, well, it is certainly too + late to recall him now. He has taken the responsibility upon himself, and + must stand or fall by the result. And now in the first place are you going + to hurry back again or are you going to remain here?” + </p> + <p> + “My regiment is one of those that he has taken with him, sir, and as I + could not hope to overtake him he has requested me to remain here until I + receive orders from him.” + </p> + <p> + “We shall be gainers so far,” the cardinal said cordially, “and I am sure + that from your knowledge of the country and of Turenne's methods your + advice upon military matters will be of great service to us. I must now go + and report to the queen this sudden change in the situation, and if she + disapproves of it I shall tell her that if she will but listen to you, you + will convert her to the view that this escapade of the marshal's is all + for the best, and seems likely indeed to retrieve the position that has + been caused by the treachery of Bavaria.” + </p> + <p> + During his stay in Paris Hector soon found that intrigue was more rampant + than ever. The Duke of Beaufort and others who had been implicated in the + plot on Mazarin's life had been pardoned and had returned to Paris, and as + the lesson that had been given them had taught them prudence, they were + now openly on good terms with the court. They were secretly, however, + intriguing with the parliament of Paris, which was now bitterly opposed to + Mazarin, had refused to register some of his decrees, and had even forced + him to dismiss his superintendent of finance, an Italian named Emeri. The + latter had imposed taxes at his will to satisfy his extravagance and + avarice, had raised the octroi duty, made the sale of firewood a monopoly, + and in various ways had incurred the indignation and hatred of the + Parisians. + </p> + <p> + Mazarin's own greed had been in no slight degree the cause of his + unpopularity; he who had come to France a penniless priest was now the + owner of great estates. It was even said that much of the money that + should have been devoted to the needs of the army had been privately sent + into Italy by him, and throughout the country it was felt to be scandalous + that while the deepest distress was universal on account of the weight of + taxation, these two Italians should be piling up wealth for themselves. + But, avaricious as he was, the cardinal was lavish in his expenditure + among his friends and adherents; honours, titles, dignities, and estates + were freely bestowed upon them, and he did not hesitate to pay any sum + that would gain him the support of those whose aid he deemed to be + essential. Madame de Chevreuse was again at court, and was, as she had + always been, the centre of the intrigues that were going on. One evening + she made a sign for Hector to take a place by her side. She had taken a + fancy to the young Scottish colonel on the evening when he had been first + introduced to her, and was always gracious to him now. + </p> + <p> + “Monsieur le baron,” she said in a low tone, “do you think that the air of + Paris agrees with you as well as that of the army?” + </p> + <p> + He felt from the manner in which she spoke, that she meant more than she + said. + </p> + <p> + “So far, madam, it has not disagreed with me,” he said; “and even did it + do so I should not be able to leave it, as I have orders to remain here.” + </p> + <p> + “By the way, monsieur,” she said, changing the subject of conversation, + “it is whispered that that party of pleasure to which you took the + officers of your regiment at St. Germain did not come off, at least none + of the landlords of the hotels there can recall any such gathering, and it + is even said that your falling in with the carriage of the Duke of Orleans + was not altogether an accident. I only mention the reports; of course, it + was a matter of no moment whether your party dined at St. Germain or at + Sevres. But sometimes misapprehensions of this kind lead to trouble, + especially when they happen a few days before serious events. I like you, + Colonel Campbell, and that is why I have mentioned this; you understand + me, I have no doubt;” and, turning to a gentleman who had at that moment + approached her, she entered into a lively conversation with him, and + Hector rose, and with the words, “Thank you, madam,” bowed, and moved + away. + </p> + <p> + It was easy to understand her meaning. Beaufort and the conspirators whose + plan he had thwarted, and who had suffered imprisonment and exile thereby, + had in some way discovered that it was to him that they owed their failure + and disgrace. At the moment his explanation and that of his officers had + deceived them, but doubtless someone whose connection with the plot was + unsuspected had instituted inquiries, found that the party he had spoken + of had not taken place, and had at once come to the conclusion that he had + in some way discovered their intentions, had really ridden out with his + officers to furnish a guard to Mazarin, and had afterwards acquainted him + with what he had discovered. Doubtless, as Madame de Chevreuse had warned + him, the air of Paris was at present dangerously unwholesome for him. He + had been the means of bringing disgrace and punishment upon the Duc de + Vendome and the Duke of Beaufort, two of the most powerful nobles in + France, and a host of their friends. + </p> + <p> + It was probable that they only recently assured themselves that it was he + who had thwarted their plans; had it been otherwise he would scarcely have + escaped their vengeance the last time that he was in Paris. Now, from what + Madame de Chevreuse had said, he had no doubt whatever that some plot + would be made against his life. He might thwart one such attempt, but + others would follow. He resolved to lay the matter before the cardinal and + take his advice. Accordingly he waited until he was leaving; several + gentlemen of his suite accompanied him, and at the entrance to the Louvre + the men of the cardinal's guard fell in on either side. When they reached + Mazarin's hotel Hector moved up to him. + </p> + <p> + “Can I have a few words with you, your eminence?” + </p> + <p> + “Certainly, Colonel Campbell; I never retire to bed till long past + midnight. It is something serious, I see,” he said quickly as they entered + his apartment, where a number of candles were burning, and he obtained a + full view of Hector's face. “Another plot?” + </p> + <p> + “Not against your eminence; it is a matter which concerns myself only. I + have been warned tonight that my share in the last affair has been + discovered, that inquiries have been made at St. Germain, and that the + various innkeepers have declared that no party of officers dined there + that morning, and that it was therefore concluded that our presence behind + your carriage was not accidental. They no doubt guessed that it was I who + discovered the plot, in consequence of which so many were arrested and + exiled. I have been distinctly warned that the air of Paris is unwholesome + for me.” + </p> + <p> + “Who warned you?” the cardinal said abruptly. + </p> + <p> + “It would not be fair of me to mention the name, but it is at any rate one + who is of Beaufort's party.” + </p> + <p> + “Ah!” the cardinal said sharply, “I noticed you sitting for a few minutes + by Madame de Chevreuse. Never mind, I will respect your confidence. I can + well understand, after what you have said, that there is great danger + here, and it is a danger from which it is well nigh impossible to protect + you, unless you take up your residence here and never stir abroad. Nor do + I know that you would be safer with the army; an assassin's knife can + reach a man as easily in a camp as in a city, and with perhaps less risk + of detection. Neither Beaufort nor Vendome are men to forget or forgive an + injury, and they have scores of fellows who would for a few crowns murder + anyone they indicated, and of gentlemen of higher rank who, although not + assassins, would willingly engage you in a duel, especially those who + suffered in the plot that you discovered. Frankly, what do you think + yourself?” + </p> + <p> + “I might retire to la Villar, cardinal. I should be safe there in my own + castle.” + </p> + <p> + “So long as you did not leave it; but a man with a musket in ambush behind + a hedge might cut your career short. It is probable enough that you are + watched, and in that case I should doubt whether you would ever get to la + Villar, nor do I think that if you left for the Rhine you would get + halfway. Now you see, Monsieur Campbell, that your cause is mine, and that + your safety touches me as if it were my own, for it was in my service that + you incurred the danger. I must think the matter over. In the meantime I + beg of you to sleep here tonight. I will send word to your servant that + you will not return. I could of course send a guard with you to your + hotel, but some of the servants there may have been bribed to murder you + as you slept. I can look after myself; I seldom leave the house except to + go to the Louvre, and I never go even that short distance without a guard, + but it is much more difficult to protect you.” + </p> + <p> + “I have my own bodyguard, your excellency—four stout Scotch soldiers + and my lackey, Paolo, who is a good swordsman also; and as it does not + seem to me that I should be safer elsewhere than here, I shall at any rate + stay for a time. I should imagine that the warning was a general one. They + have just found out that I had a hand in thwarting their plot against you, + and I dare say used threats; but the threats of angry men come very often + to nothing; and at any rate, I do not choose that they should obtain the + satisfaction of driving me from Paris against my will.” + </p> + <p> + The cardinal shook his head. “You see, monsieur, that Beaufort is a man + who hesitates at nothing. A scrupulous person would hardly endeavour to + slay a cardinal, who is also the minister of France, in the streets of + Paris in broad daylight. He is capable of burning down the Pome d'Or, and + all within it, in order to obtain revenge on you. I feel very uneasy about + you. However, sleep may bring counsel, and we will talk it over again in + the morning.” + </p> + <p> + “Have you thought of anything, Monsieur Campbell?” Mazarin asked when they + met in the morning. + </p> + <p> + “I have not, sir, save to go on trusting to my own sword and my + followers.” + </p> + <p> + “I can think of nothing,” the cardinal said, “save to send an order to + Turenne for two companies of your regiment to march hither, where, on + their arrival, you will receive orders to proceed with them to your castle + of la Villar, and to use them in the king's service in repressing all + troubles that may occur in Poitou. What say you to that?” + </p> + <p> + “I would not deprive her majesty of two hundred of her best soldiers to + guard me from what may not be after all a very real danger. My own + conclusions, after thinking it over this morning, are that I will remain + here for a time, trusting to my friends and my own sword. If a serious + attempt is made on my life I could then consider whether it would be best + to withdraw myself, and if so, whither to go; but I will not run away + merely on a vague hint that my life is in danger. I have faced death in + battle many times, and this danger can hardly be considered as more + serious. I imagine that in the first case some of the duke's followers + will force me into a duel, before proceeding to try assassination, and + although doubtless he has some good blades among his friends, I do not + think that I need to feel uneasy on that score. I was always practising + with my sword as a boy. Since I have been in the army I have spent a good + deal of my time, when in winter quarters, in such practice with my own + officers, and with any maitres d'armes in the towns where I have been, and + while in Italy had the opportunity of learning much, for there are fine + fencers there.” + </p> + <p> + “So be it, then,” Mazarin said. “But if matters go to extremes, remember + that I consider myself responsible for you. I believe that you saved my + life, and although there are many things that men say against me, none + have ever charged me with ingratitude. If I can protect you in no other + way I shall have you arrested, sent to the frontier, that is to say, to + the sea frontier, and put on board ship and sent to England or Scotland, + as you choose, with a chest containing a sum that will suffice to purchase + any estate you may choose there. + </p> + <p> + “I am in earnest,” he went on as Hector was about to answer. “It is for my + own sake as much as yours; when my friends are attacked I am attacked, and + I am doubly bound in your case. It needs but a stroke of my pen to make + you a duke and lord of half a province; and if I cannot do that here, + because you would still be within reach of your enemies, I can, as far as + the estates go, do it for you abroad. Do not fail to let me know each day + if anything new takes place.” + </p> + <p> + Hector felt that there was no more to say, and bowing, left the cardinal's + presence and went out. Paolo and Macpherson were waiting outside. + </p> + <p> + “The cardinal's messenger, who brought the news last night that you would + not return, master,” the former said when he saw by Hector's look of + surprise that he had not expected to see him there, “said also that I and + one of your men had best be here at eight this morning and wait until you + came out.” + </p> + <p> + “I did not know that he had sent such a message, Paolo, but I will when we + get to the hotel tell you why he sent it.” + </p> + <p> + The street was somewhat crowded, and Hector had gone but a short distance + when he saw three gentlemen, who he knew to be intimates of the Duke of + Beaufort, coming in the other direction. One of them was Monsieur de + Beauvais, who said in a loud tone to his companions just as Hector was + passing: + </p> + <p> + “That is the Scotchman whom the cardinal employs to do his dirty + business.” + </p> + <p> + Hector faced round at once. “At any rate, Monsieur de Beauvais, the + Scotchman in question is not employed by the cardinal as an assassin, + which is an even more dishonourable post.” + </p> + <p> + De Beauvais turned white with anger. “Behind the Luxembourg in an hour's + time, Monsieur de Villar.” + </p> + <p> + “I shall be there,” Hector said coldly. He paused a minute, after the + three gentlemen, with the customary salute, walked on. He did not like to + go to the Hotel Mazarin lest the cardinal should obtain news of what was + going to take place, so he waited in the neighbourhood, knowing that some + of Mazarin's personal friends would be sure to arrive about this hour. + Presently he saw a colonel who, like himself, was spending the winter in + Paris, and who frequently attended the cardinal's levees. + </p> + <p> + “Colonel de Serres, as a fellow soldier I have a service to ask of you.” + </p> + <p> + “I am entirely at your disposal, Monsieur Campbell.” + </p> + <p> + “I have just had a quarrel forced upon me by Monsieur de Beauvais, and I + have to meet him in fifty minutes' time at the back of the Luxembourg. As + he was in company with two gentlemen, the Comte de Marplat and Monsieur de + Vipont, I shall be glad if you would kindly act as my second, and if you + can find another officer who would do so, I shall be glad of his services + also.” + </p> + <p> + “I shall be glad to support you, Monsieur Campbell, and can lay my hand on + another second at once, for here comes my friend and yours, Monsieur Emile + de Chavigny, who will, like myself, be charmed to be concerned in any + affair against the duke's friends.” + </p> + <p> + De Chavigny, whom Hector had seen at the court on the previous day for the + first time since they had parted in Italy, agreed at once to Hector's + request. + </p> + <p> + “De Beauvais has the reputation of being a good swordsman, Campbell,” he + said as they walked together towards the Luxembourg, Paolo and his + companion having now returned to the inn at his master's order; “but I + should say that he will want all his skill now. You were by far the best + swordsman among us when you left us suddenly in the south, and doubtless + since then your skill will not have fallen off.” + </p> + <p> + “No, I know a good deal more than I knew then, Chavigny. There were few + days when we were in winter quarters that I had not an hour's work in the + fencing school with the officers of my regiment, and whenever I heard that + there was a professor of the art I have never failed to frequent his salon + and to learn his favourite strokes.” + </p> + <p> + “That is all right, then. We need have no fear whatever as to the result.” + </p> + <p> + They reached the point fixed upon a minute or two before the clock struck, + and just as it chimed de Beauvais and his friends made their appearance. + The seconds exchanged a few words and selected a piece of ground for the + encounter, the principals at once removed their doublets and faced each + other. + </p> + <p> + “This is a duel a la mort,” de Beauvais said in a loud voice. + </p> + <p> + “For that I am quite prepared,” Hector said quietly; “but you are likely + to find, Monsieur de Beauvais, that it is not so easy a thing to kill the + colonel of one of her majesty's regiments as it is to stab a churchman in + his carriage.” + </p> + <p> + De Beauvais at once took up his position, and, without the parade of + courtesy that usually preceded an encounter, fell furiously upon Hector. + The latter did not give way a step. With a wrist of iron he put aside half + a dozen thrusts, and then lunging, ran de Beauvais through the body, his + sword hilt striking against his adversary's chest. + </p> + <p> + De Beauvais' two seconds ran forward as their principal fell. “He is + dead,” one said as they knelt over him. Then rising he addressed Hector: + “Monsieur le Colonel Campbell,” he said, “I claim satisfaction at your + hands, for I take it that your words applied to me as well as to de + Beauvais, though addressed only to him.” + </p> + <p> + “You may take it so,” Hector replied coldly, “for you were also at that + house in the Rue St. Honore on that occasion you know of.” + </p> + <p> + Hector's two seconds endeavoured to interpose, but he said: “Gentlemen, I + must ask you to let the matter go on. This is no ordinary duel. These + gentlemen, with whom I have no personal animosity, have picked a quarrel + with me at the request of one higher in rank than themselves, and are + simply his agents. I had no hesitation in killing the first of them, but + as Monsieur de Vipont wishes an encounter with me in spite of what he has + seen I will give him one, but will content myself with a less severe + lesson than that I have given Monsieur de Beauvais. Now, sir, I am at your + service.” + </p> + <p> + De Vipont, knowing now how dangerous an opponent he was meeting, fought + cautiously. Hector, however, was anxious to finish the matter before they + were interrupted, and therefore took the offensive, and after two passes + ran his antagonist through the shoulder. + </p> + <p> + “Now, Monsieur le Comte, do you desire a turn?” he said carelessly. + </p> + <p> + The count was pale, but he answered steadily, “I claim it by the same + right as Monsieur de Vipont.” + </p> + <p> + “Agreed,” Hector said; and as soon as the count had removed his upper + garments they engaged. + </p> + <p> + The swords had scarcely clashed when the count's weapon was wrenched from + his hand and sent flying for a distance of twenty paces. + </p> + <p> + “That is enough,” Colonel de Serres said, stepping forward; “you have done + what you thought to be your duty, Monsieur le Comte, but it needs very + different blades from those of yourself and your companions to stand + before Colonel Campbell. He had you at his mercy, and had a right to take + your life if he chose; but as he refrained from doing that when you had + your sword in your hand, he certainly will not do so now. Messieurs, we + wish you good morning.” + </p> + <p> + “And you may mention,” Hector added, “to this person of high rank, that I + shall be happy to accommodate as many of the gentlemen of his following as + choose to take the matter up.” + </p> + <p> + “He will send no more to you, Campbell,” Chavigny said as they moved off, + leaving the count, whose valet now ran up, to obtain a vehicle and carry + his dead and wounded comrades away. + </p> + <p> + “No, I fancy not; he will try other means now. The war has only begun. Men + like Lei, Brillet, and the Campions are not the sort of men who would act + as bravos, even for the Duke of Beaufort, and I do not think that he would + even venture to propose it to them. It will be meaner instruments that he + will employ next time. However, I shall of course go straight to the + cardinal and acquaint him with what has happened. I doubt not but that he + will lay the matter before the queen, and then that Beaufort will hear of + it; but, passionate and revengeful as he is, I think that he will not be + turned from his purpose, even if he knows that he may be forced to retire + to his estates, or even leave the country till the matter blows over.” + </p> + <p> + <a name="link2HCH0021" id="link2HCH0021"> + <!-- H2 anchor --> </a> + </p> + <div style="height: 4em;"> + <br /><br /><br /><br /> + </div> + <h2> + CHAPTER XXI: THE DUKE'S REVENGE + </h2> + <p> + The cardinal listened gravely to Hector's account of the duel, and of the + circumstances that gave rise to it. + </p> + <p> + “I will go at once to the Louvre and appeal to her majesty,” he said; “you + know how warmly she spoke to you on the day when you saved my life. Still, + I fear that the sternest reproof, or even an order to retire to his + estates, would not turn him from his purpose.” + </p> + <p> + “I am sure of it, your eminence; still, as I have proved victor in the + first battle in the campaign I will bide a second.” + </p> + <p> + “Mind that you do not get stabbed in the back, colonel.” + </p> + <p> + “I will beware of that, sir; whenever I walk the streets in future Paolo + shall keep a pace behind me, and I warrant that he will protect me from + any attempt of that sort.” + </p> + <p> + “At any rate remain here until I return from the Louvre.” + </p> + <p> + In an hour Mazarin returned. “The duke has been beforehand with us,” he + said. “When I told the queen of what had happened, and why this quarrel + had been fastened upon you, she sent at once for the duke, and drew out an + order, which I signed, for him to retire at once to his estates; but the + royal messenger returned with the news that he had half an hour before + ridden away to visit his father at Vendome. A courier will start at once + with the order, but I doubt whether he will be found there. It is probable + that he has gone to one of his own estates, and it may be some time before + we find out where he is. However, it is something that he has gone.” + </p> + <p> + On his return to the inn Hector told Paolo what had taken place. + </p> + <p> + “It is a pity that you did not kill them all, master.” + </p> + <p> + “Not at all, Paolo; had I done so every one of their friends would have + been set against me. Both these men are of good families, and will + doubtless report that I had their lives at my mercy and spared them, and + after that no gentleman of reputation would take the matter up. I shall + have to be very careful in future, but now that the duke has gone there is + not likely to be any further trouble just at present.” + </p> + <p> + Paolo shook his head. “Nay, master, I think the danger all the greater. In + the first place, we do not know that he has gone. I think it far more + likely that he is hiding in the house of one of his friends. He has + pretended to leave because he was sure the cardinal would take the matter + up, and in order that, if he is absent from Paris when any harm befell + you, it could not be brought home to him. I do not suppose that next time + he will employ any of his own people. He is most popular among the mob of + Paris, who call him the King of the Markets, and he will have no + difficulty in getting as many daggers as he wishes from the scum of the + faubourgs. It would be difficult in the extreme to prove that he had aught + to do with it, for you may be sure that he would really go down into the + country with all speed the moment the deed was done. + </p> + <p> + “In future, master, you must not go out without having me close behind + you; as for the others, I would put them in ordinary citizen garb, and let + them follow some twenty yards behind, so as to be in readiness to run up + at once. They could carry swords openly, and have their pistols hidden + under their doublets.” + </p> + <p> + “It might be as well, at any rate for the present. If, as you think, + Beaufort is hidden in Paris, it is certain he will lose no time.” + </p> + <p> + Paolo nodded. “I will get the men disguises at once. They had better be + different; Macpherson can be dressed as a soldier, Nicholl as a burgher, + and Sandy Grahame and Hunter as rough mechanics. They, of course, could + not carry swords, but might take heavy cudgels. They would not walk + together, or seem to have any knowledge of each other. Sandy might be ten + paces behind you, Nicholl twenty, and the others thirty, or where the + street is wide they could keep abreast of you on the other side. Are you + going to the Louvre this evening?” + </p> + <p> + “Yes, the cardinal said that the queen wished that I should appear there. + I would much rather have stayed away, as doubtless the affair behind the + Luxembourg will be generally known by this evening, and I shall feel my + position a very unpleasant one, though I imagine that the queen intends, + by her countenance of me, to show that I have not fallen into disgrace for + duelling.” + </p> + <p> + Such was indeed the case. All eyes were turned upon Hector when he entered + the royal saloon. Many of Mazarin's friends came up and shook hands with + him warmly, while the adherents of Beaufort and Vendome stood aloof from + him with angry faces. Presently the door opened, and the queen, closely + followed by Mazarin and a train of ladies and gentlemen, entered. + </p> + <p> + As she passed Hector she stopped. “Monsieur le Baron de la Villar,” she + said in clear tones, which were heard all over the apartment, “much as I + object to duelling, and determined as I am to enforce the edicts against + it, I feel that in the encounter this morning you were in no way to blame, + and that it was forced upon you. It is scandalous that one who has so + bravely shed his blood and risked his life in defence of France should be + assailed in the capital, and for what reason? Because he proved faithful + to the queen and her minister. You have punished the chief of the + aggressors, and I shall know how to punish those who stood behind him;” + and with a gracious bow in response to his deep reverence she moved on. + </p> + <p> + The little speech created a deep sensation among the courtiers. That the + queen herself should so publicly give her countenance to this young + Scottish gentleman, and should—for no one doubted to whom she + alluded—even threaten one of the most powerful nobles in the land, + showed how strongly she felt. No one, with the exception of half a dozen + persons, understood her allusion to the service that he had rendered to + her and the cardinal, but all felt that it must be something altogether + exceptional. Many of the nobles who belonged neither to the party of + Beaufort nor the cardinal came up and congratulated him. + </p> + <p> + He received these signs of the impression that the queens' words had + conferred upon him quietly. + </p> + <p> + “I am very sorry for what has occurred,” he said. “I have killed many in + battle, but this is the first time that I have killed anyone in a private + quarrel. It was not one of my seeking, but I am none the less sorry.” + </p> + <p> + As he passed near Madame de Chevreuse, she made a gesture to him to come + to her. “You did not accept my warning,” she said sadly. “Remember, a + storm is not past because the first flash of lightning does not strike.” + </p> + <p> + “I am well aware of that, madam; I thank you for your warning, but I am + bound here by my duties as a tree is bound to the earth by its roots, and + neither can move at will to escape a storm passing overhead.” + </p> + <p> + “Should I hear of any fresh danger, Monsieur Campbell,” she said in a low + voice, “I will have you informed of it, but it is more probable that I + shall not know. Were it a state secret I should surely hear of it, but in + a matter like this none save those concerned would be likely to know of it + until it was over. Be always on your guard night and day, you cannot tell + when the bolt may fall;” and she motioned to him to pass on again. As + before, Hector accompanied the cardinal as far as his hotel, then he went + towards his own lodgings, Paolo, with his hand on his dagger, keeping a + pace behind him, while the four troopers followed one by one at a + distance. The streets were almost deserted until, just as they approached + the inn, a number of rough men rushed out from side alleys and doorways. + Hector had just time to throw himself with his back to a house and draw + his sword. Paolo's knife had levelled the first man who approached, and + then drawing his sword he took his place by the side of his master. The + ruffians stood round, each anxious to be the first to strike, and yet + fearful of meeting the sword that had, as they had heard, mastered three + gentlemen. + </p> + <p> + “Run in at him, fools!” a man in a cloak, with his hat pulled down over + his eyes, and keeping in the rear of the others, shouted. + </p> + <p> + Before his orders could be carried out there was a sudden movement, and + four men burst through them and joined Hector. The assailants hesitated. + </p> + <p> + But again the man behind shouted: “Cowards, there are but six of them, and + you are five-and-twenty, are you such curs that you are afraid to attack + when you are nigh five to one?” + </p> + <p> + Then, with a hoarse yell the crowd rushed forward. One was struck down by + a heavy cudgel, three fell on the pavement, and another one tottered back + disabled, but others took their places, and for a time the little band + were hardly pressed. The four Scotchmen fought stoutly, but although fair + swordsmen they gained no great advantage over their opponents until they + betook them to their pistols, when several of their assailants fell, but + not without inflicting wounds. Paolo also fought well, and brought three + to the ground. Hector, however, took the offensive, and before his swift + blade, with its deadly thrust, those opposed to him fell back as one after + another dropped dead. + </p> + <p> + “Down with him! down with him!” the voice shouted; “are ye men thus to + give way before a single blade?” + </p> + <p> + “And are you a man,” Hector shouted back, “to set on others to fight when + you dare not fight yourself? Whoever you are, you are a coward!” + </p> + <p> + With a fierce oath the man pushed his way through those in front of him + and drew his sword. He threw back his cloak to obtain the full use of his + sword arm, and the rich gold braiding of his doublet confirmed the opinion + Hector had already formed as to his identity. + </p> + <p> + “That is better, my lord duke; it is at least more honourable to fight in + your own quarrels than to employ a band of assassins to do your work.” + </p> + <p> + With a roar of fury Beaufort rushed upon him. He was a good swordsman, and + personally brave, but his rage neutralized his skill, and after parrying + two or three of his lunges Hector repeated the thrust with which he had + that morning disabled de Vipont, and ran his assailant through the + shoulder. He fell back with a curse. + </p> + <p> + “Kill him! kill him!” he shouted. But at that moment there was a cry, “The + watch! the watch!” Four of the fellows caught up the wounded man and + carried him off, some of the others skirmishing with the watch to hinder + their advance. + </p> + <p> + “To the inn!” Hector cried to his men, “leave the matter to the watch.” + </p> + <p> + And sheathing their weapons they ran on to the door of the hotel and + obtained entry there before the watch came up. As soon as they had passed + Hector said, “Come with me, Paolo, and see the cardinal; there is no fear + of any renewal of the attack now. + </p> + <p> + “Do you know who it was I wounded, Paolo?” he asked as they hurried along. + </p> + <p> + “No, master, I was too busy myself to look round.” + </p> + <p> + “It was Beaufort himself; I ran him through, low down in the shoulder.” + </p> + <p> + Paolo uttered an exclamation of dismay. + </p> + <p> + “It cannot be helped now,” Hector went on, “but there will be no living in + Paris or even in France after this!” + </p> + <p> + Mazarin had not retired to bed when they reached his hotel. + </p> + <p> + “What now, monsieur?” he asked. + </p> + <p> + “We have had our second battle, your eminence, and it has been a serious + one. We were attacked by five-and-twenty ruffians; we slew some ten of + them. Then their leader, who had been keeping in the rear shouting to + them, seeing that his men were not likely to get the best of us, pushed + through them and himself attacked me. I wounded him somewhat seriously, at + least the thrust was just below the shoulder; and when I tell you that it + was Beaufort himself you will see that the matter is serious indeed.” + </p> + <p> + “It could not be worse,” the cardinal said gravely; “you will have the + whole of the adherents of the house of Vendome banded against you, and + even your bravery could not long triumph over such odds. France is no + longer a place for you. Neither the queen's protection nor mine would + avail you aught.” + </p> + <p> + He took two or three turns up the room. + </p> + <p> + “In the first place, Monsieur Campbell, I will buy your fief back from + you; there are plenty who would gladly purchase it, or I can bestow it, as + it was bestowed upon you, upon someone who has served the crown well. I + will send the price to the banker who already holds money of yours in his + keeping. I should advise you to mount tonight and ride for the seacoast. + Tomorrow would be too late.” + </p> + <p> + He opened a cabinet. + </p> + <p> + “Here are a thousand crowns for your present expenses. Which road will you + take? I should advise you not to go to Calais; that is the line on which, + as soon as it is known that you have gone, they will pursue you, and even + did they not overtake you on the way they might reach Calais before you + could obtain a ship for England, for at present there is but little trade + between the countries, and that not openly.” + </p> + <p> + “I will make for Nantes, your eminence; there I can be joined by friends + from my chateau.” + </p> + <p> + A slight smile passed over the cardinal's face. + </p> + <p> + “'Tis no time for jesting,” he said; “but in truth I had intended to find + a rich heiress for you. But when I heard that two ladies were staying at + the castle I laid the project aside; and 'tis as well that I did so, for, + were you married to a princess, your life would not be safe in France. + Farewell, Monsieur Campbell, I have not so many friends that I can afford + to lose so true and stout a one, especially one upon whom misfortunes have + come through his good services to myself. I will send a messenger to the + governor of Nantes with orders that he shall in every way forward your + wishes as to your departure, as it is with my consent and approval that + you are sailing for England. Your devotion has brought you into the + gravest peril, and now it forces you to relinquish your profession, in + which you have so greatly distinguished yourself. Truly, my friendship for + you is genuine, and it cuts me to the heart that, although I could uphold + you against the most powerful nobles in open enmity, I can do naught to + save you from assassination. I trust some day that I may see you again, + but, should it not be so, remember that I shall always feel myself your + debtor; and should you have friends for whom you may ask my protection be + sure that I will for your sake do all in my power for them.” + </p> + <p> + There was no doubting the real emotion with which Mazarin spoke. + </p> + <p> + “There is one thing that I forgot,” the latter said; “here is a pass for + you to leave the gates at once. You had better go out by the north, so + that they may think that you have ridden to Calais, and then take a wide + detour and ride for Nantes.” + </p> + <p> + Hector returned to the hotel. + </p> + <p> + “We must mount at once,” he said to the troopers; “my enemies have failed + twice, but they might not fail the third time, and by tomorrow morning it + is certain that the hotel will be watched. I have a pass to issue out + through the gate at once.” + </p> + <p> + While he had been away the troopers had bandaged each other's wounds, and + had packed their valises, for they thought it probable after what had + happened that their master would be obliged to fly. + </p> + <p> + As the horses were being saddled and brought out Hector saw the innkeeper + and paid him his bill. + </p> + <p> + “Monsieur,” he said, “I am going away on business of the cardinal's, and + he desires that none shall know that I have left; therefore I pray you + keep the matter secret as long as you can. It may be reasonably supposed + that after the fray in which we have just been engaged, we might well keep + our beds for a day or two.” + </p> + <p> + Going out in the courtyard, he gave a couple of crowns to the hostler. + </p> + <p> + “You are like to be asked tomorrow if we are still here,” he said. “Give + such answers as to lead them to believe that our horses are still in the + stalls.” + </p> + <p> + They mounted and rode rapidly through the streets to the northern gate, + which was immediately, upon Hector's handing the guard the cardinal's + pass, opened to them. To the surprise of the men, he turned off after + riding a few miles. + </p> + <p> + “Are you not going to make for Calais, master?” + </p> + <p> + “No, I am bound for Poitou. We will cross the Seine by the bridge of boats + at Nantes, ride down through Dreux and Le Mans. There we will separate. I + shall follow the Sarthe, strike the Loire at Angers, and then go on to + Nantes. You will cross the Loire at Tours, and then make for la Villar. I + shall take you, Macpherson and Hunter, with me. Paolo will ride with the + other two, and will be the bearer of letters from me.” + </p> + <p> + Daylight was breaking when they crossed the bridge of boats. Hector halted + a mile from the river, keeping Paolo with him, and telling the others to + pass at intervals of a quarter of an hour apart. + </p> + <p> + “You will go first, Macpherson. You will ride south for an hour, and then + wait till the rest of us join you. It is like enough that as soon as they + find out that we have left they will send men off in all directions to + find out which way we followed, though doubtless the chief pursuit will be + directed towards Calais. I am afraid that it will not be very long before + they find we have left the hotel, for the landlord, however well he may + wish us, will not dare mislead any person of consequence that Beaufort may + send.” + </p> + <p> + They had, however, a much longer start than Hector expected, for early the + next morning ten of the cardinal's guards appeared at the hotel. The + officer in command of them told the innkeeper that, in consequence of the + tumult before his doors, in which, as he heard, some of those lodging + there had been concerned, he had orders to post his men round the house, + and to allow no one to enter or leave under any pretence whatever until + the cardinal himself had examined into the affair. These orders were + delivered in a loud voice before the servants of the inn, but the officer + privately assured the innkeeper afterwards that he would be well paid for + his loss of custom, and that it was probable that the guard would be + removed in a day or two. Thus Beaufort's emissaries were not able to + obtain news of what was passing within, and did nothing until past noon, + when it occurred to them that the cardinal had taken this strange step of + closing the inn in order to prevent its being known that Hector and his + followers had left Paris. + </p> + <p> + Men were at once sent off to the different gates of the city, and one of + these returning with the news that the north gate had been opened at one + o'clock in the morning and that six men bearing a pass from the cardinal + had ridden out, a party of twenty horsemen started out in pursuit, while + others were ordered to ride by all the different routes to Poitou, in + case, as was likely enough, Hector had ridden to his castle. The fugitive, + however, and his followers were all well mounted, and had fourteen hours' + start. They separated at Le Mans. Hector here wrote a long letter to the + Baronne de Blenfoix, and a shorter one to MacIntosh. The latter he told + only that his fief had again reverted to the crown, and gave instructions + that the steward should be ordered to return, from the moneys he had in + hand, three months' rent to every tenant, to hand the balance to MacIntosh + himself, and to hold possession of the chateau and estate until he + received orders from the cardinal himself. + </p> + <p> + MacIntosh was then, with Paolo, two troopers, and his own two sergeants, + to escort the baroness and her daughter to Nantes, if she decided to go + there. All arrangements were to be completed within twelve hours of + Paolo's arrival there. To the baroness he related briefly what had passed. + </p> + <p> + “Therefore, as you see,” he said, “there is no course open for me but to + fly for England or Ireland, where I intend to settle. I trust, madam, that + you and your daughter will accompany me. Putting aside my respect and, I + may say, my affection for yourself, you will have understood from what I + said to you when last at la Villar, that I hope some day to make your + daughter Norah my wife, if I should be so fortunate as to obtain her + affections. How this may be I cannot say, but at any rate I trust that you + will return to England, and as I have ample funds you may be assured that + my first care will be to provide for your future.” + </p> + <p> + On arriving at Nantes Hector at once rode to the governor, and presented + the cardinal's letter to him. + </p> + <p> + “You may be assured, Colonel Campbell, that I shall carry out his + eminence's instructions,” he said, after perusing the cardinal's letter. + “I will send an officer down to the port with you to aid you in obtaining + passage, should there be a ship leaving for England, or to take up a ship + for your service.” + </p> + <p> + “I would rather the latter,” Hector said. “I may have ladies with me, and + so should wish to have plenty of accommodation.” + </p> + <p> + “I am also instructed,” the governor said, “to close the gate, in case any + party, followers of the Dukes of Vendome or Beaufort, or of any families + connected with them, arrive before you leave, and to grant them no + admittance until a messenger from the mouth of the river informs me that + you are fairly out at sea.” + </p> + <p> + “I am indeed obliged to his eminence for that order, sir; he did not + mention to me that he was giving it, but it will certainly save me from + much anxiety.” + </p> + <p> + As Hector was not disposed to haggle about terms, he had no difficulty in + hiring a vessel to carry them across the Channel. Twenty-four hours after + his arrival the party from the chateau rode in, and but half an hour later + fifty horsemen wearing the cognizance of Vendome galloped up to the gate. + They were headed by four or five gentlemen, one of whom demanded angrily + why the gates were shut. + </p> + <p> + “They are closed by order of the governor,” the officer in charge replied. + </p> + <p> + “Tell the governor that the Count d'Erlon, with a party of gentlemen, + retainers of the Duke of Vendome, are here, and demand instant + admittance.” + </p> + <p> + Twenty minutes later the governor himself arrived at the gate. “I am + sorry, gentlemen,” he said, “that I am compelled to keep the gates closed. + I have an order from Cardinal Mazarin to that effect, and that, coming + from the first minister of France, I dare not disregard even if the duke + himself were with you. It would cost me my place, and possibly gain me a + cell in the Bastille; and, grieved as I am to refuse admittance to such + honourable gentlemen, still I must do so.” + </p> + <p> + “And for how long is this monstrous edict to remain in force?” the leader + of the party asked. + </p> + <p> + “That I am unable to say precisely, but I believe that I can open them + tomorrow morning.” + </p> + <p> + “You see, we were right, count,” another of the horsemen said. “The + description of the man who rode along here with two attendants tallies + with that of this Scot, and doubtless this order was brought by him from + Mazarin to enable him to get either by water away abroad or to his chateau + of la Villar.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, gentlemen, at any rate we have done our best, and though we must + have slain the fellow if we had overtaken him, I cannot say that I am + altogether grieved that he has escaped. His name is well known to + everyone. He did brave service to France under Turenne and Conde. We + learned from the messenger who brought the letter from Beaufort that he + killed de Beauvais in fair fight, wounded de Vipont, and disarmed the + Comte de Marplat, that at night he and five of his followers, though + attacked by some thirty ruffians from the faubourgs under Beaufort + himself, killed twelve of them outright, and that he himself seriously + wounded the duke. Well, there is nothing for us but to ride back to the + village we last passed through and wait there until tomorrow.” + </p> + <p> + So saying, he mounted his horse and galloped off with his party. + </p> + <p> + “Who could have thought when we parted last, Colonel Campbell, that we + should meet again under such greatly changed circumstances!” Madame de + Blenfoix exclaimed as Hector met the party as they alighted before the + principal inn of Nantes. + </p> + <p> + “It is a change, indeed,” he replied; “so great that I myself can hardly + realize it, and am not sure whether I am sorry or the reverse at what has + taken place.” + </p> + <p> + “I am very glad to hear you say so, as I feared that it would be a + terrible blow to you to give up the army.” + </p> + <p> + “I have hardly had time to think of it,” he said, “I have had so much else + to occupy my thoughts. Now, I pray you, enter the inn for a few minutes; I + have warned them to get a meal ready to be served at the shortest notice, + for I am anxious that no time shall be lost; everything is ready for our + embarkation.” + </p> + <p> + “Had we not best go aboard at once?” she said. “Your enemies might arrive + at any moment by what Paolo tells us.” + </p> + <p> + “The matter is not so pressing as I thought, madam, for the cardinal sent + orders to the governor that he is not to open the gates to any armed party + of friends of Beaufort or Vendome until I am fairly at sea.” + </p> + <p> + He went with the ladies to a private room he had secured. + </p> + <p> + “I must leave you for a few minutes,” he said, “while I have a talk with + MacIntosh and the others.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, old friend,” he said as he went out to where the little party of + Scotchmen were standing in a group, “what are your plans and wishes? 'Tis + a pity now that I persuaded you to leave Paris and go down to la Villar, + but I did it for the best. I thought of you much as I rode hither.” + </p> + <p> + “Do not trouble about me, colonel, I am by no means sorry at the change. I + was getting tired of the cabaret, and should soon have given it up even + had you not come to offer me the wardenship of your chateau. I have + chatted matters over with my two friends, and we have not yet agreed + whether to return to Scotland or to remain in France. At any rate we shall + go to Paris first; my money is there all in good keeping, together with + the two years' payment for the cabaret. Are you thinking of going to + Scotland yourself, colonel?” + </p> + <p> + “Certainly not to Scotland, I have no friends there, and from all that I + have heard the people are so hard and bigoted, so full of their religious + differences, that I should feel sorely out of place with them. + </p> + <p> + “Well, MacIntosh, as soon as I am settled in England I will have a letter + conveyed to you in some way at the address of The Scottish Soldier. + Wherever I am, there will be a home always open to you, and glad indeed I + shall be to have you near me. My four troopers are going to accompany me. + I have talked the matter over with them, and have promised that I will + find a house with a small farm for them on any estate I may purchase, + where they can do such an amount of work as pleases them, or that they can + remain in my service on the present conditions. You can make the same + offer in my name to your two comrades. After all, things are not so + settled across the water that I can dispense with old friends on whom I + can rely. Paolo, of course, goes with me, and will be my right hand.” + </p> + <p> + “I will think it all over, Hector, and maybe one of these days I and the + other two may knock at your door. It is hard if seven old fellow soldiers + could not end their days happily and quietly together.” + </p> + <p> + As soon as the meal had been eaten Hector went to say goodbye to the + governor, and heard how Vendome's men had been refused entrance. After + thanking him for the courtesy that he had shown him, he returned to the + inn. As the party would require horses on landing, and there was plenty of + room on board the vessel that he had engaged, Hector shipped the three + horses that Conde had given him, and four others for the use of his men, + and after a hearty farewell to MacIntosh on his part and that of the + ladies, they went on board, and a few minutes later the sails were set and + the vessel started down the river. The wind was favourable, and they made + a fast voyage down to the sea. Before they reached the mouth of the river, + however, Hector had ascertained to his satisfaction that Norah O'More + returned the feeling that he felt for her. + </p> + <p> + “I have loved you,” she said, “from the moment when you came to us as our + saviour from death on the summit of the turret; and though as time went on + I did not venture to think that you, who had so fair a future before you, + would ever think of the girl who with her mother you had so nobly + entertained and treated, I should never have loved any other man to the + end of my life.” + </p> + <p> + The voyage was without incident, and five days after leaving Nantes they + arrived at Plymouth. Here Hector hired a house, and when the ladies were + comfortably settled he left them in charge of Paolo and two of the men, + and rode to London accompanied by the others. Here he called upon the + banker whose address Mazarin had given him, and on sending in his name was + shown into the room in which private business was transacted. + </p> + <p> + “You have certain moneys of mine in your hands, Mr. Wilson?” + </p> + <p> + “I have had fifty thousand crowns for the past three years and have put + them out on good security, so that the sum stands at present in my books + at sixty-four thousand crowns. Three days ago I received from Cardinal + Mazarin bills to the amount of one hundred and fifty thousand crowns, + being, he said, due to you for the surrender of the fief of la Villar, and + for other services rendered to him. The cardinal is a good paymaster,” he + added with a slight smile at seeing Hector's surprise at the news, “but it + was plain from his letter to me that he considered that the value of your + services was greatly in excess of the sum, large as it is, that he sent, + especially as they had brought great misfortunes upon you, and had forced + you to abandon France, and give up your profession, in which, he said, + your prospects of gaining the highest rank were of the brightest. Now, + sir, if there are any services that I can render you I am at your + disposal. You will naturally wish to invest your money in some way, and, + though I say it myself, I know of no one who could lay it out to better + advantage.” + </p> + <p> + “You may help me assuredly,” Hector said, “for I am an entire stranger in + England. I wish to purchase an estate, but have no idea how to set about + it, while, doubtless, you are acquainted with many such domains at present + for sale. I may say that I will on no account purchase an estate which has + been confiscated by parliament on account of its owner being loyal to the + crown. Charles II may, and I believe will, return and mount the throne, + and these estates will then beyond doubt be restored to their former + owners, therefore I will have nought to do with such property.” + </p> + <p> + “You could not choose a better time for laying out your money in land,” + the banker said. “Great numbers of the nobles and gentlemen of England + have been killed or are in exile; many, again, who still hold their land + are well nigh ruined by the moneys they spent in the king's service, and + would gladly sell now could they obtain anything like a fair value for + their estates. I know of a score at least of such properties which are so + deeply mortgaged that the owners can scarce afford to live in their own + homes, and would gladly take a sum that would suffice to pay off the + mortgage and give them the wherewithal to live upon, either abroad or in + Virginia, to which colony many loyal gentlemen have already gone to + settle. If you will call tomorrow I will give you a list of such estates, + with their size, the amount of their revenues, and the price at which + their owners would, I know, be glad to sell, for I and some of my friends + have been approached by them with that view.” + </p> + <p> + Hector spent the next three weeks in visiting eight of the estates that + seemed suitable and were all situated in counties near London. Finally he + settled upon one in Berkshire, which was of considerable size and with a + stately house in a fair position. This he purchased, and then, returning + to Plymouth, his marriage with Norah was celebrated there, and he, with + his wife and Madame de Blenfoix and his five followers, rode down into + Berkshire and took possession of the estate, with which all were + delighted. The troopers, instead of accepting the house he offered them, + preferred to remain in his service, and Paolo was installed as majordomo + of the household. Six months later MacIntosh and his two comrades came + over. + </p> + <p> + The former declined Hector's offer to take up his abode at the house. + </p> + <p> + “No, colonel, I have an abundance for myself and my two comrades, and + would rather be near you, where we can live in our own fashion, and give + trouble to no one.” + </p> + <p> + “Well, if you will not come here, MacIntosh, there is a house a quarter of + a mile away which will, I think, suit you well. It is not a large place, + but is a comfortable one, and has been used as the house of the steward of + the estate. As I shall be my own steward it is vacant, and will, I think, + suit you well. It is furnished, so that you and your comrades can move in + when you like, though the longer you stay with us the better we shall be + pleased.” + </p> + <p> + A fortnight later MacIntosh and his comrades moved in, and there, when not + occupied with their duties, one or other of the troopers was generally to + be found. Hector often dropped in, and one day laughingly said that the + house ought to be renamed The Scottish Soldier. + </p> + <p> + Until the Restoration Hector kept aloof from London, but when Charles II + mounted the throne of his fathers he went up, and was presented at court + by one of the many English gentlemen whom he had known in France, where + they had sought refuge with the queen when the royal cause was lost in + England. He did not, however, repeat the visit very often. He was + perfectly happy in his country life, and never once regretted the chain of + events that had forced him to give up his life of adventure and excitement + and to settle down peacefully in England. + </p> + <p> + THE END <br /> <br /> + </p> + <hr /> + <p> + <br /> <br /> + </p> +<pre xml:space="preserve"> + + + + + +End of the Project Gutenberg EBook of Won by the Sword, by G.A. 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