fortune to hear of the very man of whom I am in search at one of the first Polish villages which I have to visit, and within a fortnight of joining my regiment. And then, to make the matter even better, I find myself in the company of one whose name is never mentioned throughout the army save in connection with some daring and generous deed."
This was all very well, and I listened to it with the greatest interest, but I was none the clearer as to what young Duroc wished me to do.
"How can I be of service to you?" I asked.
"By coming up with me."
"To the Castle?"
"Precisely."
"When?"
"At once."
"But what do you intend to do?"
"I shall know what to do. But I wish you to be with me, all the same."
Well, it was never in my nature to refuse an adventure, and, besides, I had every sympathy with the lad's feelings. It is very well to forgive one's enemies, but one wishes to give them something to forgive also. I held out my hand to him, therefore.
"I must be on my way for Rossel tomorrow morning, but tonight I am yours," said I.
We left our troopers in snug quarters, and, as it
