truly as I have arranged; it would be better from the garden, let us all assemble in the vaulted passage, from thence we shall with greater facility reach the lower window. Two or three others might in the mean while ascend the ladder and enter by the window there above. The old man, the child and the domestics must be put to death. But no shooting, I tell you, for there are royal troops quite close, who would most certainly forbid us to plunder, on that account also you must not set fire to the house.”
Edmond stole down; behind the barn he found Cavalier and his troop, who were amazed at seeing him so suddenly and rejoiced at the news he brought. He conducted them by a different way into the garden and posted them at the back of the entwined arbour, which, moreover, had no opening at the sides. He took half of the troops with him to guard the entrance. The robbers were already in the dark beach avenue; when they saw men advancing towards them they retreated, but Edmond
