is whispered that the war is likely to break out again. Has the rumour
reached you down here?"

"We hear little news of the outside world," I replied.

"Excuse me, monsieur," exclaimed Jacques suddenly, "but it will suit us
to quicken the pace. We have pressing business to transact," to which
our chance acquaintance replied that he was quite willing to be guided
by our wishes.

Accordingly we broke into a canter, and for the next hour or so no sound
was heard save the beat of our horses' hoofs on the hard road. But
once, when the stranger had shot a few paces to the front--for as I have
said he rode a splendid animal--Jacques made me a swift sign that I
should be cautious.




CHAPTER II

Tracked, or Not?


"That is your road, monsieur. At the end of a mile a cross-road leads
straight to Etienne Cordel's dwelling. You will see the house from the
spot where the road branches. You will pardon us for our hasty
departure, but time presses. If you put up again at the inn, we may have
the pleasure of meeting you on our return."