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."

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:

"So it is you that I am to escort to Chivasso, Monsieur Campbell?"

"Yes; I am sorry to give you occasion for so much trouble."

"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."