There being no other way out of the business, except that of standing still to be captured, we drew our swords and, crying “For the Admiral!” dashed boldly at them.  They were riding in no sort of order, but straggled along loosely, each intent, it seemed to me, on getting first.  They were clearly surprised at encountering us, and, beyond a few hasty sword-strokes in passing,—­and these did no damage—­made no effort to oppose our passage.

Several yards behind the main body two men were stumbling along on wounded horses.  They themselves were hurt also, and both promptly surrendered at our challenge.

“Faith!” cried Felix, “this is a queer proceeding.  Ah, there is the reason,” as a strong patrol of our own men came thundering along.  The leader pointed ahead with his sword, as if asking a question, and Felix exclaimed quickly, “They are in front; their horses are getting blown.”

We drew aside to give them room, as they galloped past in a cloud of dust, and then my comrade, turning to Jacques, said, “Can you manage the prisoners, Jacques?  We must hurry on.”

My servant produced a loaded pistol.  “I am well provided, monsieur,” he answered.  “I think these gentlemen will not give trouble.”

“Very good.  Take your time; I expect our troops are on the march.  Forward, Edmond,” and, setting spurs to our horses, we galloped off.

All danger was over now, and before long we caught sight of the advanced-guard of our army.

“Can you tell us where to find the general?” asked Felix of an officer, as we pulled up.

“He is with the centre, monsieur.  Have you seen the enemy?”

“Yes,” I answered, riding on, “and there will be some stirring work soon!”

CHAPTER XV

A Glorious Triumph

Coligny was riding with a group of his principal officers when we drew up, and he greeted us with a kindly smile.

“Here are our knights-errant,” said he, “let us hear what they have to say.  Have you seen the enemy, Bellievre?”

“Yes, my lord; their camp is a few miles beyond Arnay-le-Duc.  They were preparing to march when we left, though they seemed to be in no particular hurry.  The officers were holding some sort of inspection.”

“Did you get close to them?”

“We had a clear view of the whole camp from the top of a wooded hill in the rear.”

“And you have formed some idea of their numbers?”

“There were three of us, my lord, and we were all fairly well agreed.  The marshal has six guns, between four and five thousand cavalry, and about thirteen thousand infantry.”

“Do you agree with that statement, Le Blanc?”

“The numbers are a little over my calculation, my lord; but not much.”

“In any case, you think the figures are high enough?”

“That is absolutely certain,” I replied.

“Good!  We owe you both our best thanks.”