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."

"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."

Hector shook his head. "No, I should prefer the first mixture. I
care not whether the cloak is crimson or violet."

"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."

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."

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