alarm. M. de Solivet, who had a slight wound himself, and M.
d'Aubepine, who was quite uninjured, though he had done prodigies of
valour, would tend him with all their hearts. I had better send the
carriage and horses at once to bring him back, as the number of
wounded was frightful, and means of transport were wanting. Then
followed a message of express command from my husband that I was not
to think of coming with the carriage. He would not have me at
Freiburg on any account.

I submitted; indeed I saw no cause for fear, and even rejoiced that
for a long time I should have my husband to myself. I made all ready
for him, and taught my little Gaspard now he would say: 'Soyez le
bienvenu, mon papa.'

So passed a week. Then one day there was a clanking of spurs on the
stairs; I flew to the door and there stood M. d'Aubepine.

'Is he near?' I cried, and then I saw he was white and trembling.

'Ah! no,' he cried; 'he is at Brisach! We could bring him no
farther. Can you come with me, Madame? He asked incessantly for
you, and it might--it might be that your coming may revive him.'

And then this wild headstrong youth actually sank into a chair, hid
his face on the table, and sobbed as if his heart would break.

I had no time for weeping then. I sent for the first physician in
Nancy, and offered him any sum in the world to accompany me; I had to
make almost wild efforts to procure a horse, and at last had to force
one from the governor by my importunities. I collected wine and