 41 It was two o'clock in the afternoon. The king, full of impatience, went to his cabinet on the terrace, and kept opening the door of the corridor to see what his secretaries were doing. Monsieur Colbert, seated in the same place Monsieur de Saint-Anion had so long occupied in the morning, was chatting in a low voice with Monsieur de Brienne. The king opened the door suddenly and addressed them. What is it you are saying? We were speaking of the first sitting of the States, said Monsieur de Brienne, rising. Very well, replied the king, and returned to his room. Five minutes after the summons of the bell recalled Rose, whose hour it was. Have you finished your copies? asked the king. Not yet, Sire. See if Monsieur de T'Anion has returned. Not yet, Sire. It is very strange, murmured the king, called Monsieur Colbert. Colbert entered. He had been expecting this all the morning. Monsieur Colbert, said the king, very sharply. You must ascertain what has become of Monsieur de T'Anion. Colbert, in his calm voice, replied, When does your Majesty desire him to be sought for? Eh, Monsieur, do you not know on what I have said him? replied Louis acrimoniously. Your Majesty did not inform me. Monsieur, there are things that must be guessed, and you, above all, are apt to guess them. I might have been able to imagine, Sire, but I do not presume to be positive. Colbert had not finished these words when a rougher voice than that of the king interrupted the interesting conversation, thus begun between the monarch and his clerk. D'Artenion cried the king with evident joy. D'Artenion, pale in an evidently bad humor, cried to the king as he entered, Sire, is it your Majesty who has given orders to my musketeers? What orders? said the king. Not Monsieur Fouquet's house? None, replied Louis. Ha! said D'Artenion, biting his mustache. I was not mistaken then. It was Monsieur here! And he pointed to Colbert. What orders? Let me know, said the king. Orders to turn the house topsy-turvy, to beat Monsieur Fouquet's servants, to force the drawers, to give over a peaceful house to pillage. Mordio, these are savage orders. Monsieur, said Colbert, turning pale. Monsieur, interrupted D'Artenion, the king alone understand, the king alone has a right to command my musketeers. But as to you, I forbid you to do it, and I tell you so before his Majesty. Men who carry swords do not sling pens behind their ears. D'Artenion, D'Artenion, murmured the king. It is humiliating, continued the musketeer. My soldiers are disgraced. I do not command rate-ch, thank you, nor clerks of the intended Mordio. Well, but what is this all about? said the king with authority. What this sire, Monsieur, Monsieur, who could not guess your Majesty's orders, and consequently could not know I was gone to arrest Monsieur Fouquet. Monsieur, who has caused the iron cage to be constructed for his patron of yesterday, has sent Monsieur Durant-Cherolle to the lodgings of Monsieur Fouquet, and, under the pretense of securing the surintendence papers, they have taken away the furniture. My musketeers have been posted round the house all the morning. Such were my orders. Why did anyone presume to order them to enter? Why, by forcing them to assist in this pillage, have they been made accomplices in it? Mordio, we serve the king. We do. But we do not serve Monsieur Coubert. Footnote. Dumas, here, and later in the chapter, uses the name Rancheurat. Rancheurolle is the actual name of the man. End of footnote. Monsieur D'Artagnan, said the king sternly, Take care. It is not in my presence that such explanations and made in such a tone should take place. I have acted for the good of the king, said Coubert, in a faltering voice. It is hard to be so treated by one of your majesty's officers, and that without redress, on account of the respect I owe the king. The respect you owe the king, cried D'Artagnan, his eyes flashing fire, consists in the first place in making his authority respected, and his person beloved. Every agent of a power without control represents that power, and when people curse the hand which strikes them, it is the royal hand that God reproaches. Do you hear? Must a soldier, hardened by forty years of wounds and blood, give you this lesson, Monsieur? Must mercy be on my side, and ferocity on yours? You have caused the innocent to be arrested, bound, and imprisoned. Accomplices, perhaps, of Monsieur Coubert, said Coubert. You told you Monsieur Coubert had accomplices, or even that he was guilty. The king alone knows that. His justice is not blind. When he says, arrest and imprison such and such a man, he is obeyed. Do not talk to me, then, any more of the respect you owe the king, and be careful of your words, that they may not chance to convey the slightest menace, for the king will not allow those to be threatened who do him service by others who do him disservice, and if in case I should have, which God forbid, a master so ungrateful, I would make myself respected. Thus saying, D'Artagnan took his station haughtily in the king's cabinet, his eyes flashing, his hand on his sword, his lips trembling, affecting much more anger than he really felt. Coubert, humiliated and devoured with rage, bowed to the king as if to ask his permission to leave the room. The king, thwarted alike in pride and in curiosity, knew not which part to take. D'Artagnan saw him hesitate. To remain longer would have been a mistake. It was necessary to score a triumph over Coubert, and the only method was to touch the king so near the quick that his majesty would have no other means of extrication but choosing between the two antagonists. D'Artagnan bowed as Coubert had done. But the king, who in preference to everything else, was anxious to have all the exact details of the arrest of the surintendent of the finances from him who had made him tremble for a moment. The king, perceiving that the ill-humour of D'Artagnan would put off for half an hour at least the details he was burning to be acquainted with. Louis, we say, forgot Coubert, who had nothing new to tell him, and recalled his captain of the musketeers. "'In the first place,' said he, "'let me see the result of your commission, monsieur. You may rest yourself hereafter.' D'Artagnan, who was just passing through the doorway, stopped at the voice of the king, retraced his steps, and Coubert was forced to leave the closet. His countenance assumed almost a purple hue, his black and threatening eyes, shown with a dark fire beneath their thick brows. He stepped out, bowed before the king, half drew himself up in passing D'Artagnan, and went away with death in his heart. D'Artagnan, on being left alone with the king, softened immediately, and, composing his countenance. "'Sire,' said he, "'you are a young king. It is by the dawn that people judge whether the day will be fine or dull. How, Sire, will the people, whom the hand of God has placed under your law, argue of your reign, if between them and you, you allow angry and violent ministers to interpose their mischief? But let us speak of myself, Sire. Let us leave a discussion that may appear idle, and perhaps inconvenient to you. Let us speak of myself. I have arrested Mr. Fouquette." "'You took plenty of time about it,' said the king sharply. D'Artagnan looked at the king. "'I perceive that I have expressed myself badly. I announced to your Majesty that I had arrested Mr. Fouquette.' "'You did? And what then?' "'Well, I ought to have told your Majesty that Mr. Fouquette had arrested me. That would have been more just. I re-established the truth, then. I have been arrested by Mr. Fouquette.' It was now the turn of Louis XIV to be surprised. His Majesty was astonished in his turn. D'Artagnan, with his quick glance, appreciated what was passing in the heart of his master. He did not allow him time to put any questions. He related, with that poetry, that picturesqueness, which perhaps he alone possessed at that period, the escape of Fouquette, the pursuit, the furious race, and lastly, the inimitable generosity of the Seren Tendent, who might have fled ten times over, who might have killed the adversary in the pursuit, but who had preferred imprisonment, perhaps worse, to the humiliation of one who wished to rob him of his liberty. In proportion as the tale advanced, the king became agitated, devouring the narrator's words and drumming with his fingernails upon the table. It results from all this, Sire, in my eyes at least, that the man who conducts himself thus is a gallant man, and cannot be an enemy to the king. That is my opinion, and I repeat it to your Majesty. I know what the king will say to me, and I bow to it, reasons of state. So be it, to my ears that sounds highly respectable. But I am a soldier, and I have received my orders. My orders are executed. Very unwillingly on my part it is true, but they are executed. I say no more. Where is Monsieur Fouquet at this moment? asked Louis after a short silence. Monsieur Fouquet, Sire, replied D'Artagnan, is in the iron cage that Monsieur Colbert had prepared for him, and his galloping as fast as four strong horses can drag him toward Angers. Why did you leave him on the road? Because your Majesty did not tell me to go to Angers. The proof, the best proof of what I advance, is that the king desired me to be sought for but this minute, and then I had another reason. What is that? Whilst I was with him, poor Monsieur Fouquet would never attempt to escape. Well! cried the king, astonished. Your Majesty ought to understand, and does understand, certainly, that my warmest wish is to know that Monsieur Fouquet is at liberty. I have given him one of my brigadiers, the most stupid I could find among my musketeers, in order that the prisoner might have a chance of escaping. Are you mad, Monsieur D'Artagnan? cried the king, crossing his arms on his breast. Do people utter such enormities, even when they have the misfortune to think them? Ah! You desire? You cannot expect that I should be an enemy to Monsieur Fouquet, after what he has just done for you and me. No. No. If you desire that he should remain under your lock and bolt, never give him in charge to me. However closely wired might be the cage. The bird would, in the end, take wing. I am surprised, said the king, in his sternest tone. You did not follow the fortunes of the man Monsieur Fouquet wished to place upon my throne. You had in him all you want—affection, gratitude. In my service, Monsieur, you will only find a master. If Monsieur Fouquet had not gone to seek you in the Bastille as sire, replied D'Artagnan, with a deeply impressive manner, one single man would have gone there, and I should have been that man. You know that right well, sire. The king was brought to a pause. Before that speech of his captain of the musketeers, so frankly spoken and so true, the king had nothing to offer. On hearing D'Artagnan, Louis remembered the D'Artagnan of former times, him who, at the Palais Royale, held himself concealed behind the curtains of his bed, when the people of Paris, led by Cardinal de Retz, came to assure themselves of the presence of the king, the D'Artagnan whom he saluted with his hand at the door of his carriage, when repairing to Notre-Dame on his return to Paris, the soldier who had quitted his service at Blois, the lieutenant he had recalled to be beside his person when the death of Mazarin restored his power, the man he had always found loyal, courageous, devoted. Louis advanced towards the door and called Colbert. Colbert had not left the corridor where the secretaries were at work. He reappeared. Colbert, did you make a perquisition on the house of Monsieur Fouquet? Yes, sire. What has it produced? Monsieur Durant-Cherolle, who was sent with your Majesty's musketeers, has remitted me some papers, replied Colbert. I will look at them. Give me your hand. My hand, sire! Yes, that I may place it in that of Monsieur D'Artagnan. In fact, Monsieur D'Artagnan added he with a smile, turning towards the soldier who, at sight of the clerk, had resumed his haughty attitude. You do not know this man, make his acquaintance, and he pointed to Colbert. He has been made but a moderately valuable servant in subalterned positions, but he will be a great man if I raise him to the foremost rank. Sire, stammered Colbert, confused with pleasure and fear. I always understood why, murmured D'Artagnan in the king's ear, he was jealous. Precisely. And his jealousy confined his wings. He will henceforward be a winged serpent, grumbled the musketeer, with a remnant of hatred against his recent adversary. But Colbert, approaching him, offered to his eyes a physiognomy so different from that which he had been accustomed to see him wear, he appeared so good, so mild, so easy. His eyes took the expression of an intelligent, so noble, that D'Artagnan, our connoisseur in physiognomies, was moved, and almost changed in his convictions. Colbert pressed his hand. That which the king has just told you, monsieur, proves how well his majesty has acquainted with men. The inveterate opposition I have displayed up to this day, against abuses and not against men, proves that I had it in view to prepare for my king a glorious reign, for my country a great blessing. I have many ideas, monsieur D'Artagnan. You will see them expand in the sun of public peace, and if I have not the good fortune to conquer the friendship of honest men, I am at least certain, monsieur, that I shall obtain their esteem, for their admiration, monsieur, I would give my life. This change, this sudden elevation, this mute approbation of the king, gave the musketeer matter for profound reflection. He bowed civilly to Colbert, who did not take his eyes off him. The king, when he saw that they were reconciled, dismissed them. They left the room together. As soon as they were out of the cabinet, the new minister, stopping the captain, said, Is it possible, monsieur D'Artagnan, that with such an eye as yours, you did not, at the first glance, at the first impression, discover what sort of man I am? Monsieur Colbert, replied the musketeer, Array of the sun in our eyes prevents us from seeing the most vivid flame. The man in power radiates, you know, and since you are there, why should you continue to persecute him, who had just fallen into disgrace, and fallen from such a height? I, monsieur, said Colbert, O monsieur, I would never persecute him. I wish to administer the finances, and to administer them alone, because I am ambitious, and above all, because I have the most entire confidence in my own merit. Because I know that all the gold of this country will ebb and flow beneath my eyes, and I love to look at the king's gold. Because if I live thirty years, in thirty years not a denier of it will remain in my hands. Because with that gold I will build granaries, castles, cities and harbors. Because I will create a marine. I will equip navies that shall waft the name of France to the most distant people. Because I will create libraries and academies. Because I will make France the first country in the world, and the wealthiest. These are the motives for animosity against monsieur Fouquette, who prevented my acting. And then, when I shall be great and strong, when France is great and strong, in my turn then will I cry mercy. Mercy, did you say? Then ask his liberty of the king. The king is only crushing him on your account. Colbert again raised his head. Monsieur, said he, you know that is not so, and that the king has his own personal animosity against monsieur Fouquette. It is not for me to teach you that. But the king will grow tired. He will forget. The king never forgets, monsieur D'Artagnan. Park, the king calls. He is going to issue an order. I have not influenced him, have I? Listen." The king, in fact, was calling his secretaries. Monsieur D'Artagnan, said he, I am here, Sire. Give twenty of your musketeers to monsieur de Saint-Anion to form a guard for monsieur Fouquette. D'Artagnan and Colbert exchanged looks. Then from Angers, continued the king, they will conduct the prisoner to the Bastille in Paris. You were right, said the captain to the minister. Saint-Anion, continued the king, you will have anyone shot who shall attempt to speak privately with monsieur Fouquette during the journey. But myself, Sire, said the duke, you, monsieur, you will only speak to him in the presence of the musketeers. The duke bowed and departed to execute his commission. D'Artagnan was about to retire likewise, but the king stopped him. Monsieur, said he, you will go immediately and take possession of the eel and thief of Bel-Eel-en-Mer. Yes, Sire, alone. You will take a sufficient number of troops to prevent delay in case the place should be contumatious. A murmur of courtly incredulity arose from the group of courtiers. That shall be done, said D'Artagnan. I saw the place in my infancy, resumed the king, and I do not wish to see it again. You have heard me? Go, monsieur, and do not return without the keys. Colbert went up to D'Artagnan. A commission which, if you carry it out well, said he, will be worth americard's bâton to you. Why do you employ the words, if you carry it out well? Because it is difficult. Ah, in what respect? You have friends in Bel-Eel, monsieur D'Artagnan, and it is not an easy thing for men like you to march over the bodies of their friends to obtain success. D'Artagnan hung his head in deepest thought, whilst Colbert returned to the king. A quarter of an hour after, the captain received the written order from the king to blow up the fortress of Bel-Eel, in case of resistance, with power of life and death over all the inhabitants or refugees, and an injunction not to allow one to escape. Colbert was right, thought D'Artagnan. For me the bâton of a mareshal of France will cost the lives of my two friends. Only they seem to forget that my friends are not more stupid than the birds, and that they will not wait for the hand of the fowler to extend over their wings. I will show them that hand so plainly that they will have quite time enough to see it. Poor Porthos! Poor Aramis! No! My fortune should and shall not cost your wings a feather. Having thus determined, D'Artagnan assembled the royal army, embarked it at Pambouf, and set sail, without the loss of an unnecessary minute. 42 Bel-Eel on Mares At the extremity of the mole, against which the furious sea beats at the evening tide, two men, holding each other by the arm, were conversing in an animated and expansive tone, without the possibility of any other human being hearing their words, borne away as they were, one by one, by the gusts of wind, with the white foam swept from the crests of the waves. The sun had just gone down in the vast sheet of the crimsoned ocean, like a gigantic crucible. From time to time, one of these men, turning towards the east, cast an anxious, inquiring look over the sea. The other, interrogating the features of his companion, seemed to seek for information in his looks. Then, both silent, busy with dismal thoughts, they resumed their walk. Everyone has already perceived that these two men were our proscribed heroes, porthos and aromas, who had taken refuge in Bel-Eel, since the ruin of their hopes, since the discomforture of the colossal schemes of Monsieur de Blay. It is of no use, you're saying anything to the contrary, my dear aromas," repeated porthos, inhaling vigorously the salt breeze with which he charged his massive chest. It is of no use, aromas. The disappearance of all the fishing boats that went out two days ago is not an ordinary circumstance. There has been no storm at sea. The weather has been constantly calm, not even the lightest gale. And even if we had had a tempest, all our boats would not have foundered. I repeat, it is strange. This complete disappearance astonishes me, I tell you. True, murmured aromas, you are right, friend porthos, it is true, there is something strange in it. And further, added porthos, whose ideas the assent of the bishop of Vaan seemed to enlarge, and further, do you not observe that if the boats have perished, not a single plank is washed ashore? I have remarked it as well as yourself. And do you not think it's strange that the only two boats we had left in the whole island, and which I sent in search of the others, aromas here interrupted his companion by a cry, and by so sudden a movement that porthos stopped as if he were stupefied. What do you say, porthos? What? You have sent the two boats. In search of the others, yes, to be sure I have, replied porthos calmly. Unhappy man, what have you done? Then we are indeed lost, cried the bishop. Lost? What did you say? Between the terrified porthos. How lost, aromas! How are we lost? Aromas bit his lips. Nothing. Nothing. You're pardoned. I meant to say, What? That if we were inclined, if we took a fancy to make an excursion by sea, we could not. Very good. And why should that vex you? A precious pleasure, ma foie. For my part, I don't regret it at all. What I regret is certainly not the more or less amusement we can find at Belle Eau. What I regret, aromas, is Pierre Faune, Brassieux, Le Valon. Beautiful France. Here we are not in France, my dear friend. We are—I know not where. Oh, I tell you in full sincerity of soul, and your affection will excuse my frankness. But I declare to you I am not happy at Belle Eau. No, in good truth I am not happy. Aromas breathed along with stifled sigh. Dear friend, replied he, That is why it is so sad a thing you have sent the two boats we had left in search of the boats which disappeared two days ago. If you had not sent them away, we would have departed. Departed? And the orders, aromas? What orders? Pauble! Why, the orders you have been constantly in and out of season repeating to me, that we were to hold Belle Eau against the usurper, you know very well. That is true, murmured aromas again. You see then plainly, my friend, that we could not depart, and that the sending away of the boats in search of the others cannot prove prejudicial to us in the very least. Aromas was silent, and his vague glances, luminous as that of an albatross, hovered for a long time over the sea, interrogating space, seeking to pierce the very horizon. With all that, aromas, continued Porthos, who adhered to his idea, and that the more closely from the bishop having apparently endorsed it. With all that you give me no explanation about what can have happened to these unfortunate boats. I am assailed by cries and complaints whichever way I go. The children cry to see the desolation of the women, as if I could restore the absent husbands and fathers. What you suppose, my friend, and how ought I to answer them? Take all you like, my good Porthos, and say nothing. This reply did not satisfy Porthos at all. He turned away grumbling something in ill humor. Aromas stopped the valiant musketeer. Do you remember, said he in a melancholy tone, kneading the two hands of the giant between his own with affectionate cordiality, do you remember, my friend, that in the glorious days of youth, do you remember Porthos when we were all strong and valiant, we and the other two, if we had then had an inclination to return to France? Do you think this sheet of salt water would have stopped us? Oh, said Porthos, but six leagues! If you had seen me get astride of a plank, would you have remained on land, Porthos? No, party-er, no, Aromas! But nowadays what sort of a plank should we want, my friend, I in particular? And the signeur de Brassieux cast a profound glance over his colossal rotundity with a loud laugh. And do you mean seriously to say you are not tired of bel-il a little, and that you would not prefer the comforts of your dwelling, of your episcopal palace, Edvon? Come, confess! No, replied Aromas, without daring to look at Porthos. Let us stay where we are, then, said his friend with a sigh, which in spite of the efforts he made to restrain it escaped his echoing breast. Let us remain, let us remain! And yet, added he, and yet, if we seriously wished, but that decidedly, if we had a fixed idea, one firmly taken to return to France, and there were not boats. Have you remarked another thing, my friend? That is, since the disappearance of our barks, during the last two days' absence of fishermen, not a single small boat has landed on the shores of the Isle? Yes, certainly, you are right! I, too, have remarked it, and the observation was the more naturally made for, before the last two fatal days, barks and shallops were as plentiful as shrimps. I must inquire, said Aromas, suddenly and with great agitation, and then, if we had a raft constructed. But there are some canoes, my friend, shall I board one? A canoe! A canoe! Can you think of such a thing, Porthos? A canoe to be upset in. No, no, said the Bishop of Vann. It is not our trade to ride upon the waves. We will wait. We will wait. And Aromas continued walking about with increased agitation. Porthos, who grew tired of following all the feverish movements of his friend, Porthos, who, in his faith and calmness, understood nothing of the sort of exasperation, which was betrayed by his companion's continual convulsive starts, Porthos stopped him. Let us sit down upon this rock, said he. Place yourself there, close to me, Aromas, and I conjure you, for the last time, to explain to me in a manner I can comprehend. Explain to me what we are doing here. Porthos, said Aromas, much embarrassed. I know that the false king wished to dethrone the true king. That is a fact that I understand. Well, yes, said Aromas. I know that the false king formed the project of selling Belial to the English. I understand that, too. Yes. I know that we engineers and captains came and threw ourselves into Belial to take direction of the works. And the command of ten companies levied in pay by Mr. Fouquette. Or rather, the ten companies of his son-in-law. All that is plain. Aromas rose in a state of great impatience. He might be said to be a lion impretuned by a gnat. Porthos held him by the arm. But what I cannot understand, what, in spite of all the efforts of my mind, and all my reflections I cannot comprehend, and never shall comprehend is, that instead of sending us troops, instead of sending us reinforcements of men, munitions, provisions, they leave us without boats. They leave Belial without arrivals, without help. It is that instead of establishing with us a correspondence, whether by signals, or written, or verbal communications, all relations with the shore are intercepted. Tell me, Aromas, answer me. Or rather, before answering me, will you allow me to tell you what I have thought? Will you hear what my idea is, the plan I have conceived? The bishop raised his head. Well, Aromas, continued Porthos, I have dreamed. I have imagined that an event has taken place in France. I dreamt of Mr. Fouquette all the night, of lifeless fish, of broken eggs, of chambers badly furnished, meanly kept. Villainous dreams, my dear Derbley, very unlucky such dreams. Porthos, what is that yonder? Interrupted Aromas, rising suddenly, and pointing out to his friend a black spot upon the impurpled line of the water. A bark, said Porthos. Yes, it is a bark. Ah, we shall have some news at last. There are two, cried the bishop on discovering another mast. Two, three, four, five, said Porthos, and his turn. Six, seven, ah, mon, dear, mon, dear, it is a fleet. Our boats returning, probably, said Aromas very uneasily, in spite of the assurance he affected. We are very large for fishing boats, observed Porthos. And do you not remark, my friend, that they come from the Loire? They come from the Loire, yes. And look, everybody here sees them as well as ourselves. Look, women and children are beginning to crowd the jetty. An old fisherman passed. Are those our barks yonder? Asked Aromas. The old man looked steadily into the eye of the horizon. No, mon, senior, replied he, they are lighter bores. Boats in the king's service. Boats in the royal's service, replied Aromas, starting. How do you know that? Said he, by the flag. But, said Porthos, the boat is scarcely visible. How the devil, my friend, can you distinguish the flag? I see there is one, replied the old man. Our boats, trade-lighters, do not carry any. That sort of craft is gently used for transport of troops. Ah, groaned Aromas. Vivaat! cried Porthos. They are sending us reinforcements. Don't you think they are, Aromas? Probably. Unless it is the English coming? By the Loire, that would have an evil look, Porthos, for they must have come through Paris. You are right, they are reinforcements, decidedly, or provisions. Aromas leaned his head upon his hands and made a reply. Then all at once, Porthos, said he, have the alarm sounded. The alarm! Do you imagine such a thing? Yes, and let the canoneers mount their batteries, the artillerymen be at their pieces, and be particularly watchful of the coast batteries. Porthos opened his eyes to their widest extent. He looked attentively at his friend to convince himself he was in his proper senses. I will do it, my dear Porthos. Continuing Aromas in his blandest tone, I will go and have these orders executed myself, if you do not go, my friend. Well, I will, instantly, said Porthos, who went to execute the orders, casting all the while looks behind him to see if the bishop of Von were not deceived, and if on recovering more rational ideas, he would not recall him. The alarm was sounded, trumpets braided, drums rolled, the great bronze bell swung in horror from its lofty belfry. The dykes and moles were quickly filled with the curious and soldiers, matches sparkled in the hands of the artillerymen, placed behind the large cannon bedded in their stone carriages. When every man was at his post, when all the preparations for defense were made, Permit me, Aromas, to try to comprehend, whispered Porthos timidly and Aromas' ear. My dear friend, you will comprehend, but too soon. Myrbred Monsieur Dublé, in reply to this question of his lieutenant, the fleet which is coming yonder with sails unfurled, straight towards the port of Belle Eel, is a royal fleet, is it not? But as there are two kings of France, Porthos, to which of these two kings does this fleet belong? Oh, you open my eyes! replied the giant, stunned by the insinuation. And Porthos, whose eyes this reply of his friends had at last opened, or rather thickened, the bandage which covered his sight, went with his best speed to the batteries to overlook his people and exhort every one to do his duty. In the meantime, Aromas, with his eye fixed on the horizon, saw the ships continually drawing nearer. The people and the soldiers, perched on the summits of the rocks, could distinguish the masts, then the lower sails, and at last the hulls of the lighters, bearing at the mast head the royal flag of France. It was night when one of these vessels, which had created such a sensation among the inhabitants of Bel-Eel, dropped anchor within cannon-shot of the place. It was soon seen, notwithstanding the darkness, that some sort of agitation reigned on board the vessel, from the side of which a skiff was lowered, of which the three rowers, bending to their oars, took the direction of the port, and in a few instants struck land at the foot of the fort. The commander jumped ashore. He had a letter in his hand, which he waved in the air, and seemed to wish to communicate with somebody. This man was soon recognized by several soldiers, as one of the pilots of the island. He was the captain of one of the two barks retained by Aromas, but which Porthos and his anxiety, with regard to the fate of the fisherman who had disappeared, had sent in search of the missing boats. He asked to be conducted to Monsieur de Blay. The two soldiers, at a signal from a sergeant, marched him between them and escorted him. Aromas was upon the key. The envoy presented himself before the bishop of Vaan. The darkness was almost absolute, notwithstanding the flambeau born at a small distance by the soldiers who were following Aromas in his rounds. Well, Jonathan, from whom do you come? Monsignor, from those who captured me. Who captured you? You know, Monsignor, we set out in search of our comrades? Yes, and afterwards? Well, Monsignor, within a short league, we were captured by a chasse marais belonging to the king. Ah, said Aromas. Of which king? cried Porthos. Jonathan started. Speak, continued the bishop. We were captured, Monsignor, and joined to those who had been taken yesterday morning. What was the cause of the mania for capturing you all? Said Porthos. Monsieur, to prevent us from telling you, replied Jonathan. Porthos was again at a loss to comprehend. And they have released you to-day, asked he. That I might tell you that they captured us, Monsieur. Trouble upon trouble, thought Honest Porthos. During this time Aromas was reflecting. Huh, said he, that I suppose it is a royal fleet blockading the coasts. Yes, Monsignor. Who commands it? The captain of the king's musketeers. D'Artagnan? D'Artagnan, exclaimed Porthos. I believe that is the name. And did he give you this letter? Yes, Monsignor. Bring the torches nearer. It is his writing, said Porthos. Aromas eagerly read the following lines. Order of the king to take Bel-Eel or to put the garrison to the sword if they resist. Order to make prisoners of all the men of the garrison, signed D'Artagnan, who the day before yesterday arrested Monsieur Fouquet for the purpose of his being sent to the Bastille. Aromas turned pale and crushed the paper in his hands. What is it, asked Porthos? Nothing, my friend, nothing. Tell me, Jonathan. Monsignor? Did you speak to Monsieur D'Artagnan? Yes, Monsignor. What did he say to you? That for ampler information he would speak with Monsignor. Where? On board his own vessel. On board his vessel. And Porthos repeated, on board his vessel. Monsieur Le Musqueter, continued Jonathan, told me to take you both on board my canoe and bring you to him. Let us go at once, exclaimed Porthos, dear D'Artagnan. But Aromas stopped him. Are you mad? cried he. Who knows that it is not a snare? Of the other kings, said Porthos mysteriously. A snare, in fact. That's what it is, my friend. Very possibly, what is to be done then, if D'Artagnan sends for us? Who assures you that D'Artagnan sends for us? Well, but, but he's writing. Writing is easily counterfeited. This looks counterfeited, unsteady. You are always right, but in the meantime we know nothing. Aromas was silent. It is true, said the good Porthos. We do not want to know anything. What shall I do? asked Jonathan. You will return on board this captain's vessel. Yes, Monsignor. And we'll tell him that we beg he will himself come into the island. Ah, I comprehend, said Porthos. Yes, Monsignor, replied Jonathan. But if the captain should refuse to come to Bel-Eel, if he refuses, as we have canon, we will make use of them. What, against D'Artagnan? If it is D'Artagnan, Porthos, he will come. Go, Jonathan, go. Mahfua, I no longer comprehend anything, murmured Porthos. I will make you comprehend it all, my dear friend. The time for it has come. Sit down upon this gun carriage, open your ears, and listen well to me. Oh, Padre, I will listen, no fear of that. May I depart, Monsignor? cried Jonathan. Yes, be gone, and bring back an answer. Allow the canoe to pass, you men there. And the canoe pushed off to regain the fleet. Aramis took Porthos by the hand and commenced his explanations. End of chapter. Chapter 43 of The Man in the Iron Mask. This LibriVox recording is in the public domain and is read by Mark Smith of Simpsonville, South Carolina. The Man in the Iron Mask by Alexandra Dumont. Chapter 43. Explanations by Aramis. What I have to say to you, friend Porthos, will probably surprise you, but it may prove instructive. I like to be surprised, said Porthos, in a kindly tone. Do not spare me, therefore I beg. I am hardened against emotions. Don't fear, speak out. It is difficult, Porthos. Difficult. For in truth I warn you a second time. I have very strange things, very extraordinary things to tell you. Oh, you speak so well, my friend, that I could listen to you for days together. Speak, then, I beg, and stop. I have an idea. I will, to make your task more easy. I will, to assist you in telling me such things, question you. I shall be pleased at your doing so. What are we going to fight for, Aramis? If you ask me many such questions as that, if you would render my talk the easier by interrupting my revelations thus, Porthos, you will not help me at all. So far, on the contrary, that is the very Gordian knot. But, my friend, with a man like you, good, generous, and devoted, the confession must be bravely made. I have deceived you, my worthy friend. You have deceived me. Good heavens, yes. Was it for my good, Aramis? I thought so, Porthos. I thought so sincerely, my friend. Then, said the honest senior of Brassier, you have rendered me a service, and I thank you for it. For if you had not deceived me, I might have deceived myself. In what, then, have you deceived me? Tell me. In that I was serving the usurper against whom Louis XIV, at this moment, is directing his efforts. The usurper, said Porthos, scratching his head, that is, well, I do not quite clearly comprehend. He is one of the two kings who are contending for the crown of France. Very well, then you were serving him who is not Louis XIV? You have hit the matter in one word. It follows that. It follows that we are rebels, my poor friend. And the devil, the devil, cried Porthos, much disappointed. Oh, but dear Porthos, be calm. We shall still find means of getting out of the affair, trust me. It is not that which makes me uneasy, replied Porthos. That which alone touches me is that ugly word, rebels. Ah, but, and so, according to this, the duchy that was promised me, it was the usurper that was to give it to you. And that is not the same thing, Aramis, said Porthos, majestically. My friend, if it had only depended upon me, you should have become a prince. Porthos began to bite his nails in a melancholy way. That is where you have been wrong, continued he, in deceiving me, for that promised duchy I reckoned upon. Oh, I reckoned upon it seriously, knowing you to be a man of your word, Aramis. Poor Porthos, pardon me, I implore you. So then, continued Porthos, without replying to the bishops' prayer. So then it seems I have quite fallen out with Louis the Fourteenth. Oh, I will settle all that, my good friend. I will settle all that. I will take it all myself alone. Aramis! No, no, Porthos, I conjure you, let me act. No false generosity, no inopportune devotedness. You knew nothing of my projects. You have done nothing of yourself. With me it is different. I alone am the author of this plot. I stood in need of my inseparable companion. I called upon you, and you came to me in remembrance of our ancient device. All for one, one for all. My crime is that I was an egotist. Now that is a word I like, said Porthos. And seeing that you have acted entirely for yourself, it is impossible for me to blame you. It is natural. And upon this sublime reflection, Porthos pressed his friend's hand cordially. In presence of this ingenuous greatness of soul, Aramis felt his own littleness. It was the second time he had been compelled to bend before real superiority of heart, which is more imposing than brilliancy of mind. He replied by a mute and energetic pressure to the endearment of his friend. Now, said Porthos, that we have come to an explanation. Now that I am perfectly aware of our situation with respect to Louis XIV, I think, my friend, it is time to make me comprehend the political intrigue of which we are the victims. For I plainly see there is a political intrigue at the bottom of all this. D'Artagnan, my good Porthos, D'Artagnan is coming and will detail it to you in all its circumstances. But, excuse me, I am deeply grieved. I am bowed down with mental anguish and I have need of all my presence of mind, all my powers of reflection to extricate you from the false position in which I have so imprudently involved you. But nothing can be more clear, nothing more plain than your position henceforth. The King Louis XIV has no longer now but one enemy. That enemy is myself, myself alone. I have made you a prisoner, you have followed me. Today I liberate you, you fly back to your prince. You can perceive, Porthos, there is not one difficulty in all this. Do you think so? Said Porthos. I am quite sure of it. Then why, said the admirable good sense of Porthos, then why if we are in such an easy position, why my friend do we prepare cannon, muskets and engines of all sorts? It seems to me it would be much more simple to say to Captain D'Artagnan, my dear friend, we have been mistaken. That error is to be repaired. Open the door to us, let us pass through and we will say goodbye. Ah, that, said Eremus, shaking his head. Why do you say that? Do you not approve of my plan, my friend? I see a difficulty in it. What is it? The hypothesis that D'Artagnan may come with orders which will oblige us to defend ourselves. What, defend ourselves against D'Artagnan? Folly, against the good D'Artagnan. Eremus once more replied by shaking his head. Porthos, at length, said he, if I have had the matches lighted and the guns pointed, if I have had the signal of alarm sounded, if I have called every man to his post upon the ramparts, those good ramparts of Baileel which you have so well fortified, it was not for nothing. Wait to judge, or rather, no, do not wait. What can I do? If I knew my friend, I would have told you. But there is one thing much more simple than defending ourselves, a boat and a way for France, where, my dear friend, said Eremus, smiling with a strong shade of sadness, do not let us reason like children. Let us be men in council and in execution. But, Hark, I hear a hail for landing at the port, attention, Porthos, serious attention. You'd use Dartagnan, no doubt, said Porthos in a voice of thunder approaching the parapet. Yes, it is I, replied the captain of the musketeers, running lightly up the steps of the mole and gaining rapidly the little esplanade on which his two friends waited for him. As soon as he came towards them, Porthos and Eremus observed an officer who followed Dartagnan, treading apparently in his very steps. The captain stopped upon the stairs of the mole when half way up. His companions imitated him. Make your men draw back, cried Dartagnan to Porthos and Eremus. Let them retire out of hearing. This order, given by Porthos, was executed immediately. Then Dartagnan turning towards him, who followed him. Monsieur, said he, we are no longer on board the king's fleet, where in virtue of your order you spoke so arrogantly to me just now. Monsieur, replied the officer, I did not speak arrogantly to you, I simply but rigorously obeyed instructions. I was commanded to follow you, I follow you. I am directed not to allow you to communicate with anyone without taking cognizance of what you do. I am in duty bound, accordingly, to overhear your conversations. Dartagnan trembled with rage, and Porthos and Eremus, who heard this dialogue, trembled likewise, but with uneasiness and fear. Dartagnan, biting his mustache with that vivacity which denoted in him exasperation, closely to be followed by an explosion, approached the officer. Monsieur, said he in a low voice, so much the more impressive that, affecting calm, it threatened tempest. Monsieur, when I sent a canoe hither, you wished to know what I wrote to the defenders of Bel-Eel. You produced an order to that effect, and in my turn I instantly showed you the note I had written. When the skipper of the boat sent by me returned, when I received the reply of these two gentlemen, and he pointed to Eremus and Porthos, you heard every word of what the messenger said. All that was plainly in your orders, all that was well executed, very punctually, was it not? Yes, Monsieur, stammered the officer. Yes, without doubt, but Monsieur, continued Dartagnan, growing warm. Monsieur, when I manifested the intention of quitting my vessel to cross to Bel-Eel, you demanded to accompany me. I did not hesitate, I brought you with me. You are now at Bel-Eel, are you not? Yes, Monsieur, but, but, the question no longer is of Monsieur Colbert, who has given you that order, or of whom so ever in the world you are following the instructions. The question now is of a man who is a clog upon Monsieur Dartagnan, and who is alone with Monsieur Dartagnan upon steps whose feet are bathed by thirty feet of salt water. A bad position for that man, a bad position, Monsieur, I warn you. But, Monsieur, if I am a restraint upon you, said the officer timidly and almost faintly, it is my duty which, Monsieur, you have had the misfortune, either you or those that sent you to insult me. It is done. I cannot seek redress from those who employ you. They are unknown to me, or are at too great a distance. But you are under my hand, and I swear that if you make one step behind me when I raise my feet to go up to those gentlemen, I swear to you by my name, I will cleave your head into with my sword, and pitch you into the water. Oh, it will happen, it will happen. I have only been six times angry in my life, Monsieur, and all five preceding times I killed my man. The officer did not stir. He became pale under this terrible threat, but replied with simplicity, Monsieur, you are wrong in acting against my orders. Porthos and Aramis, mute and trembling at the top of the parapet, cried to the musketeer, Good D'Artagnan, take care. D'Artagnan made them assigned to keep silence, raised his foot with ominous calmness to mount the stair, and turned round, sword in hand, to see if the officer followed him. The officer made a sign of the cross and stepped up. Porthos and Aramis, who knew their D'Artagnan, uttered a cry and rushed down to prevent the blow they thought they already heard. But D'Artagnan passed his sword into his left hand. Monsieur said he to the officer in an agitated voice, you are a brave man. You will all the better comprehend what I am going to say to you now. Speak, Monsieur D'Artagnan, speak, replied the officer. These gentlemen we have just seen, and against whom you have orders, are my friends. I know they are, Monsieur. You can understand whether or not I ought to act towards them as your instructions prescribe. I understand your reserve. Very well. Permit me then to converse with them without a witness. Monsieur D'Artagnan, if I yield to your request, if I do that which you beg me, I break my word. But if I do not do it, I disoblige you. I prefer the one to limit to the other. Converse with your friends, and do not despise me, Monsieur, for doing this for your sake, whom I esteem and honor. Do not despise me for committing for you, and you alone, an unworthy act. D'Artagnan much agitated, threw his arm round the neck of the young man, and then went up to his friends. The officer, enveloped in his cloak, sat down on the damp, weed-covered steps. Well, said D'Artagnan to his friends, such is my position, judge for yourselves. All three embraced as in the glorious days of their youth. What is the meaning of all these preparations? Said Portos. You ought to have a suspicion of what they signify, said D'Artagnan. Not any, I assure you, my dear captain, for in fact I have done nothing, no more hazardous, the worthy Baron hastened to say. D'Artagnan darted a reproachful look at the prelate, which penetrated that hardened heart. Dear Portos, cried the Bishop of Vaan. You see what is being done against you, said D'Artagnan, interception of all boats coming to or going from Bel-Eel. Your means of transport seized. If you had endeavored to fly, you would have fallen into the hands of the cruisers that ploughed the sea in all directions, on the watch for you. The King wants you to be taken, and he will take you. D'Artagnan tore it as gray mustache. Hermes Gruessamber, Portos, angry. My idea was this, continued D'Artagnan, to make you both come on board, to keep you near me, and restore you your liberty. But now, who can say when I return to my ship, I may not find a superior, that I may not find secret orders which will take from me my command, and give it to another, who will dispose of me and you without hope of help. We must remain at Bel-Eel, said Hermes, resolutely, and I assure you for my part, I will not surrender easily. Portos said nothing. D'Artagnan remarked the silence of his friend. I have another trial to make of this officer, of this brave fellow who accompanies me, and whose courageous resistance makes me very happy, for it denotes an honest man, who, though an enemy, is a thousand times better than a complacent coward. Let us try to learn from him what his instructions are, and what his orders permit or forbid. Let us try, said Hermes. D'Artagnan went to the parapet, leaned over towards the steps of the mole, and called the officer, who immediately came up. Monsieur, said D'Artagnan, after having exchanged the cordial courtesies natural between gentlemen who know and appreciate each other, Monsieur, if I wish to take away these gentlemen from here, what would you do? I should not oppose it, Monsieur, but having direct explicit orders to put them under guard, I should detain them. Ah, said D'Artagnan. That's all over, said Hermes glumily. Portos did not stir. But still take Portos, said the Bishop of Vaan. He can prove to the king, and I will help him do so, and you too, Monsieur D'Artagnan, that he had nothing to do with this affair. Hmm, said D'Artagnan, will you come? Will you follow me, Portos? The king is merciful. I want time for reflection, said Portos. You will remain here, then? Until fresh orders, said Hermes, with vivacity. Until we have an idea, resumed D'Artagnan, and I now believe that will not be long, for I have one already. Let us say a do, then, said Hermes, but in truth my good Portos, you ought to go. No, said the latter, laconically. As you please, replied Hermes, a little wounded in his susceptibilities at the morose tone of his companion, only I am reassured by the promise of an idea from D'Artagnan, an idea I fancy I have divined. Let us see, said the musketeer, placing his ear near Hermes's mouth. The latter spoke several words rapidly, to which D'Artagnan replied, that is it, precisely. Infallible, cried Hermes. During the first emotion this resolution will cause, take care of yourself, Hermes. Oh, don't be afraid. Now, monsieur, said D'Artagnan to the officer, thanks, a thousand thanks, you have made yourself three friends for life. Yes, added Hermes, Portos alone said nothing but merely bowed. D'Artagnan, having tenderly embraced his two old friends, left Belle-Île with the inseparable companion with whom monsieur Colbert had saddled him. Thus, with the exception of the explanation with which the worthy Portos had been willing to be satisfied, nothing had changed in appearance in the fate of one or the other. Only, said Hermes, there is D'Artagnan's idea. D'Artagnan did not return on board without profoundly analyzing the idea that he had discovered. Now, we know that whatever D'Artagnan did examine, according to custom, daylight was certain to illuminate. As to the officer, now grown mute again, he had full time for meditation. Therefore, on putting his foot on board his vessel, moored within cannon shot of the island, the captain of the musketeers had already got together all his means, offensive and defensive. He immediately assembled his counsel, which consisted of the officers serving under his orders. These were eight in number, a chief of the maritime forces, a major directing the artillery, an engineer, the officer we are acquainted with, and four lieutenants. Having assembled them, D'Artagnan arose, took off his hat and addressed them thus. Gentlemen, I have been to reconnoiter Belle-Île-Mer, and I have found in it a good and solid garrison. Moreover, preparations are made for a defence that may prove troublesome. I therefore intend to send for two of the principal officers of the place that we may converse with them. Having separated them from their troops and cannon, we shall be better able to deal with them, particularly by reasoning with them. Is not this your opinion, gentlemen? The major of artillery rose. Monsieur, said he, with respect but firmness, I have heard you say that the place is preparing to make a troublesome defence. The place is then, as you know, determined on rebellion? D'Artagnan was visibly put out by this reply, but he was not the man to allow himself to be subdued by a trifle, and resumed, Monsieur, said he, your reply is just, but you are ignorant that Belle-Île is a thief of Monsieur Fouquette's, and that former monarchs gave the right to the seniors of Belle-Île to arm their people. The major made a movement. Oh, do not interrupt me, continued D'Artagnan. You are going to tell me that that right to arm themselves against the English was not a right to arm themselves against their king, but it is not Monsieur Fouquette, I suppose, who holds Belle-Île at this moment, since I arrested Monsieur Fouquette the day before yesterday. Now the inhabitants and defenders of Belle-Île know nothing of this arrest. You would announce it to them in vain. It is a thing so unheard of and extraordinary, so unexpected that they would not believe you. A Breton serves his master, and not his masters. He serves his master till he has seen him dead. Now the Bretons, as far as I know, have not seen the body of Monsieur Fouquette. It is not then surprising they hold out against that which is neither Monsieur Fouquette nor his signature. The major bowed in token of assent. That is why, continued D'Artagnan, I propose to cause two of the principal officers of the garrison to come on board my vessel. They will see you, gentlemen. They will see the forces we have at our disposal. They will consequently know to what they have to trust, and the fate that attends them, in case of rebellion. We will affirm to them, upon our honour, that Monsieur Fouquette is a prisoner, and that all resistance can only be prejudicial to them. We will tell them that at the first cannon fired, there will be no further hope of mercy from the king. Then, or so at least I trust, they will resist no longer. They will yield up without fighting, and we shall have a place given up to us in a friendly way, which it might cost the prodigious efforts to subdue. The officer who had followed D'Artagnan to Bel-Eel was preparing to speak, but D'Artagnan interrupted him. Yes, I know what you are going to tell me, Monsieur. I know that there is an order of the kings to prevent all secret communications with the defenders of Bel-Eel, and that is exactly why I do not offer to communicate except in presence of my staff. And D'Artagnan made an inclination of the head of his officers, who knew him well enough to attach a certain value to the condescension. The officers looked at each other as if to read each other's opinions in their eyes, with the intention of evidently acting, should they agree, according to the desire of D'Artagnan. And already the latter saw with joy that the result of their consent would be sending a bark to Porthos and Hermes when the king's officer drew from a pocket a folded paper which he placed in the hands of D'Artagnan. This paper bore upon its superscription the number one. What more, murmured the surprised captain. Read, Monsieur, said the officer, with a courtesy that was not free from sadness. D'Artagnan, full of mistrust, unfolded the paper and read these words. Prohibition to Monsieur D'Artagnan to assemble any council whatever, or to deliberate in any way before belly it'll be surrendered and the prisoners shot, signed Louis. D'Artagnan repressed the quiver of impatience that ran through his whole body, and with a gracious smile. That is well, Monsieur, said he. The king's orders shall be complied with. End of chapter. Chapter 44 of the Man in the Iron Mask. This LibriVox recording is in the public domain and is read by Mark Smith of Simpsonville, South Carolina. The Man in the Iron Mask by Alexander Dumas. Chapter 44. Result of the ideas of the king and the ideas of D'Artagnan. The blow was direct. It was severe, mortal. D'Artagnan, furious at having been anticipated by an idea of the king's, did not despair, however, even yet, and reflecting upon the idea he had brought back from Bel-Eel, he elicited therefrom novel means of safety for his friends. Gentlemen, said he, suddenly, since the king has charged some other than myself with his secret orders, it must be because I no longer possess his confidence, and I should really be unworthy of it if I had the courage to hold a command subject to so many injurious suspicions. Therefore I will go immediately and carry my resignation to the king. I tender it before you all, in joining you all to fall back with me upon the coast of France, in such a way as not to compromise the safety of the forces his majesty has confided to me. For this purpose return all to your posts. Within an hour we shall have the ebb of the tide. To your posts, gentlemen. I suppose, added he, on seeing that all prepared to obey him, except the Surveillance Officer, you have no orders to object this time? And D'Artagnan almost triumphed while speaking these words. This plan would prove the safety of his friends. The blockade once raised, they might embark immediately and set sail for England or Spain without fear of being molested. Whilst they were making their escape, D'Artagnan would return to the king would justify his return by the indignation which the mistrust of Colbert had raised in him. He would be sent back with full powers and he would take Bel-Eel, that is to say, the cage after the birds had flown. But to this plan the officer opposed a further order of the kings. It was thus conceived. From the moment Mr. D'Artagnan shall have manifested the desire of giving in his resignation, he shall no longer be reckoned leader of the expedition and every officer placed under his orders shall be held to no longer obey him. Moreover, the said Mr. D'Artagnan, having lost that quality of leader of the army sent against Bel-Eel, shall set out immediately for France, accompanied by the officer who will have remitted the message to him and who will consider him a prisoner for whom he is answerable. Brave and careless as he was, D'Artagnan turned pale. Everything had been calculated with a depth of precognition which for the first time in 30 years recalled to him the solid foresight and inflexible logic of the Great Cardinal. He leaned his head on his hand, thoughtful, scarcely breathing. If I were to put this order in my pocket, thought he, who would know it? What would prevent my doing it? Before the king had had time to be informed, I should have saved those poor fellows yonder. Let us exercise some small audacity. My head is not one of those the executioner strikes off for disobedience. We will disobey. But at the moment he was about to adopt this plan, he saw the officers around him reading similar orders which the passive agent of the thoughts of that infernal co-bear had distributed to them. This contingency of his disobedience had been foreseen as all the rest had been. Monsieur, said the officer, coming up to him, I await your good pleasure to depart. I am ready, Monsieur, replied D'Artagnan, grinding his teeth. The officer immediately ordered a canoe to receive Monsieur D'Artagnan and himself. At sight of this he became almost distraught with rage. How, stammered he, will you carry on the directions of the different corps? When you are gone, Monsieur, replied the commander of the fleet, it is to me the command of the whole is committed. Then Monsieur, rejoined Colbert's man addressing the new leader, it is for you that this last order remitted to me is intended. Let us see your powers. Here they are, said the officer exhibiting the royal signature. Here are your instructions, replied the officer, placing the folded paper in his hands and turning round towards D'Artagnan. Come, Monsieur, said he in an agitated voice. Such despair did he behold in that man of iron. Do me the favor to depart at once. Immediately articulated D'Artagnan, feebly, subdued, crushed by implacable impossibility. And he painfully subsided into the little boat, which started, favored by wind and tide, for the coast of France. The king's guards embarked with him. The musketeer still preserved the hope of reaching not quickly and of pleading the cause of his friends eloquently enough to incline the king to mercy. The bark flew like a swallow. D'Artagnan distinctly saw the land of France profiled in black against the white clouds of night. Ah, Monsieur, said he in a low voice to the officer to whom, for an hour, he had ceased speaking. What would I give to know the instructions for the new commander? They are all Pacific, are they not? And he did not finish. The thunder of a distant cannon rolled to thwart the waves, another, and two or three still louder. D'Artagnan shuddered. They have commenced the siege of Belle Eul, replied the officer. The canoe had just touched the soil of France. End of chapter. Chapter 45 of The Man in the Iron Mask. This LibriVox recording is in the public domain and is read by Mark Smith of Simpsonville, South Carolina. The Man in the Iron Mask by Alexander Dumas. Chapter 45 The Ancestors of Porthos. When D'Artagnan left Aramis in Porthos, the latter returned to the principal fort in order to converse with greater liberty. Porthos, still thoughtful, was a restraint on Aramis whose mind had never felt itself more free. "'Dear Porthos,' said he suddenly, "'I will explain D'Artagnan's idea to you.' "'What idea, Aramis?' "'An idea to which we shall owe our liberty within twelve hours.' "'Ah, indeed,' said Porthos, much astonished, "'let us hear it.' "'Did you remark, in the scene our friend had with the officer, "'that certain orders constrained him with regard to us?' "'Yes, I did notice that.' "'Well, D'Artagnan is going to give in his resignation "'to the king, and during the confusion "'that will result from his absence, we will get away. "'Or rather, you will get away, Porthos, "'if there is possibility of flight for only one.' "'Here Porthos shook his head and replied, "'We will escape together, Aramis, or we will stay together.' "'Thine is a right, a generous heart,' said Aramis. "'Only your melancholy uneasiness affects me.' "'I am not uneasy,' said Porthos. "'Then you are angry with me.' "'I am not angry with you.' "'Then why, my friend, do you put on such a dismal countenance?' "'I will tell you, I am making my will.' "'And while saying these words, the good Porthos "'looks sadly in the face of Aramis.' "'Your will,' cried the bishop. "'What, then, do you think yourself lost?' "'I feel fatigued. "'It is the first time, and there is a custom in our family.' "'What is it, my friend?' "'My grandfather was a man twice as strong as I am.' "'Indeed,' said Aramis. "'Then your grandfather must have been Samson himself.' "'No, his name was Antoine. "'Well, he was about my age "'when setting out one day for the chase. "'He felt his legs weak, "'the man who had never known what weakness was before.' "'What was the meaning of that fatigue, my friend?' "'Nothing good, as you will see. "'For having set out, complaining still of weakness of the legs, "'he met a wild boar which made head against him. "'He missed him with his archibus, "'and was ripped up by the beast and died immediately.' "'There is no reason in that "'why you should alarm yourself, dear Porthos.' "'Oh, you will see. "'My father was as strong again as I am. "'He was a rough soldier, under Henry III and Henry IV. "'His name was not Antoine, "'but Gaspar, the same as Monsieur de Colligny. "'Always on horseback. "'He had never known what lassitude was. "'One evening, as he rose from table, his legs failed him.' "'He had sub-tardily, perhaps,' said Aramis. "'And that was why he staggered.' "'Bah! A friend of Monsieur de Basse-en-Pierre? Nonsense! No, no. He was astonished at this lassitude, and said to my mother, who laughed at him, "'Who would not one believe I was going to meet with a wild boar "'as the late Monsieur de Valant my father did?' "'Well?' said Aramis. "'Well, having this weakness, my father insisted upon going down into the garden instead of going to bed. His foot slipped on the first stair. The staircase was steep. My father fell against a stone in which an iron hinge was fixed. The hinge gashed his temple, and he was stretched out dead upon the spot.' Aramis raised his eyes to his friend. "'These are two extraordinary circumstances,' said he. "'Let us not infer that there may succeed a third. It is not becoming in a man of your strength to be superstitious, my brave Porthos. Besides, when were your legs known to fail? Never have you stood so firm, so haughtily. Why, you could carry a house on your shoulders.' "'At this moment,' said Porthos, "'I feel myself pretty active. But at times I vacillate. I sink. And lately this phenomenon, as you say, has occurred four times. I will not say this frightens me, but it annoys me. Life is an agreeable thing. I have money. I have fine estates. I have horses that I love. I have also friends that I love. D'Artagnan, Athos, Raul, and you.' The admirable Porthos did not even take the trouble to dissimulate in the very presence of Aramis the rank he gave him in his friendship. Aramis pressed his hand. "'We will still live many years,' said he, to preserve to the world such specimens of its rarest men. Trust yourself to me, my friend. We have no reply from D'Artagnan. That is a good sign. He must have given orders to get the vessels together and clear the sea. On my part I have just issued directions that a bark should be rolled on rollers to the mouth of the great cavern of Locmaria, which you know, where we have so often lane and wait for the foxes. Yes, and which terminates at the little creek by a trench, where we discovered the day that splendid fox escaped that way. Precisely. In case of misfortunes, a bark is to be concealed for us in that cavern. Indeed, it must be there by this time. We will wait for a favourable moment, and during the night we will go to sea. "'That is a grand idea. What shall we gain by it?' We shall gain this. Nobody knows that grotto, or rather its issue, except ourselves and two or three hudders of the island. We shall gain this, that if the island is occupied, the scouts, seeing no bark upon the shore, will never imagine we can escape, and will cease to watch.' "'I understand. Well, that weakness in the legs? Oh, better much, just now. You see, then, plainly, that everything conspires to give us quietude and hope. D'Artagnan will sweep the sea, and leave us free. No royal fleet or descent to be dreaded. Vive-et-deur! Porthos, we have still half a century of magnificent adventure before us, and if I once touch Spanish ground, I swear to you,' added the bishop with terrible energy, that your brevet of duke is not such a chance as it is said to be.' "'We live by hope,' said Porthos, enlivened by the warmth of his companion. All at once a cry resounded in their ears. "'To arms! To arms!' This cry, repeated by a hundred throats, piercing the chamber where the two friends were conversing, carried surprise to one, and uneasiness to the other. Eremus opened the window. He saw a crowd of people running with flambeau. Women were seeking places of safety. The armed population were hastening to their posts. "'The fleet! The fleet!' cried a soldier, who recognized Eremus. "'The fleet!' repeated the latter. "'Within half-cannon-shot!' continued the soldier. "'To arms!' cried Eremus. "'To arms!' repeated Porthos, formidably, and both rushed forth towards the mould to place themselves within the shelter of the batteries. Boats laden with soldiers were seen approaching, and in three directions, for the purpose of landing at three points at once. "'What must be done?' said an officer of the guard. "'Stop them, and if they persist, fire!' said Eremus. Five minutes later the cannonade commenced. These were the shots that D'Artanghen had heard as he landed in France. But the boats were too near the mould to allow the cannon to aim correctly. They landed, and the combat commenced hand to hand. "'What's the matter, Porthos?' said Eremus to his friend. "'Nothing! Nothing! Only my legs! It is really incomprehensible. They will be better when we charge.' In fact, Porthos and Eremus did charge with such vigor, and so thoroughly animated their men, that the royalist re-embarked precipitately, without gaining anything with the wounds they carried away. "'Hey, but Porthos!' cried Eremus. "'We must have a prisoner! Quick! Quick!' Porthos bent over the stair of the mould, and seized by the nape of the neck one of the officers of the royal army, who was waiting to embark, till all his people should be in the boat. The arm of the giant lifted up his prey, which served him as a buckler, and he recovered himself without a shot, being fired at him. "'Here is a prisoner for you!' said Porthos, coolly to Eremus. "'Well!' cried the latter, laughing. "'Did you not columniate your legs?' "'It was not with my legs I captured him,' said Porthos. "'It was with my arms!' End of chapter 46 OF THE MAN IN THE IRON MASK This lever-box recording is in the public domain, and is read by Mark Smith of Simpsonsville, South Carolina. THE MAN IN THE IRON MASK By Alexander Dumas Chapter 46 THE SON OF BISCARAT The Bretons of the Isle were very proud of this victory. Eremus did not encourage them in the feeling. "'What will happen?' said he to Porthos, when everybody was gone home, will be that the anger of the king will be roused by the account of the resistance, and that these brave people will be decimated or shot when they are taken, which cannot fail to take place.' "'From which it results, then,' said Porthos, "'that what we have done is of not the slightest use.' "'For the moment it may be,' replied the bishop, "'for we have a prisoner from whom we shall learn what our enemies are preparing to do.' "'Yes, let us interrogate the prisoner,' said Porthos, "'and the means of making him speak are very simple. We are going to supper. We will invite him to join us. As he drinks, he will talk.' This was done. The officer was at first rather uneasy, but became reassured on seeing what sort of men he had to deal with. He gave, without having any fear of compromising himself, all the details imaginable of the resignation and departure of D'Artagnan. He explained how, after that departure, the new leader of the expedition had ordered a surprise upon Bel-Eel. There his explanations stopped. Aramis and Porthos exchanged a glance that events their despair. No more dependence to be placed now on D'Artagnan's fertile imagination. No further resource in the event of defeat. Aramis, continuing his interrogations, asked the prisoner what the leaders of the expedition contemplated doing with the leaders of Bel-Eel. "'The orders are,' replied he, "'to kill during combat or hang afterwards.' Porthos and Aramis looked at each other again, and the color mounted to their faces. "'I am too light for the gallows,' replied Aramis. "'People like me are not hung.' "'And I am too heavy,' said Porthos. "'People like me break the cord.' "'I am sure,' said the prisoner, gallantly, "'that we could have guaranteed you the exact kind of death you preferred.' "'A thousand thanks,' said Aramis seriously. Porthos bowed. "'One more cup of wine to your health,' said he, drinking himself. From one subject to another the chat with the officer was prolonged. He was an intelligent gentleman, and suffered himself to be led on by the charm of Aramis's wit and Porthos's cordial bonomi. "'Pardon me,' said he, "'if I address a question to you, but men who are in their sixth bottle have a clear right to forget themselves a little.' "'Hedress it!' cried Porthos. "'Hedress it!' "'Speak,' said Aramis. "'Were you not, gentlemen, both in the musketeers of the late king?' "'Yes, monsieur, and amongst the best of them, if you please,' said Porthos. "'That is true. I should say even the best of all soldiers, monsieur, if I did not fear to offend the memory of my father.' "'Of your father?' cried Aramis. "'Do you know what my name is?' "'Ma foie, no, monsieur. But you can tell us, and I am called Georges de Biscarrat.' "'Oh!' cried Porthos in his turn. "'Biscarrat! Do you remember that name, Aramis?' "'Biscarrat!' reflected the bishop. "'It seems to me.' "'Tried to recollect, monsieur,' said the officer. "'Pour Dieu, that won't take me long,' said Porthos. "'Biscarrat!' called Cardinal, one of the four who interrupted us on the day on which we formed our friendship with d'Artagnan, soared in hand. "'Precisely, gentlemen.' "'The only one,' cried Aramis eagerly, "'we could not scratch.' "'Consequently a capital-blade,' said the prisoner. "'That's true, most true,' exclaimed both friends together. "'Ma foie, monsieur Biscarrat, we are delighted to make the acquaintance of such a brave man's son.' "'Biscarrat!' pressed the hands held out by the two musketeers. Aramis looked at Porthos as much as to say, "'Here is a man who will help us,' and without delay. "'Confess, monsieur,' said he, "'that it is good to have once been a good man.' "'My father always said so, monsieur.' "'Confess likewise that it is a sad circumstance in which you find yourself, a falling in with men destined to be shot or hung, and to learn that these men are old acquaintances, in fact, hereditary friends.' "'Oh, you are not reserved for such a frightful fate as that, monsieurs and friends,' said the young man warmly. "'Bah, you said so yourself.' "'I said so just now, when I did not know you, but now that I know you, I say, you will evade this dismal fate, if you wish.' "'How if we wish?' echoed Aramis, whose eyes beamed with intelligence as he looked alternately at the prisoner and Porthos. "'Provided,' continued Porthos, looking in his turn with noble intrepidity at monsieur Biscarrat and the bishop. "'Provided nothing disgraceful, be required of us.' "'Nothing at all will be required of you, gentlemen,' replied the officer. "'What should they ask of you? If they find you, they will kill you. That is a predetermined thing. Try then, gentlemen, to prevent their finding you.' "'I don't think I am mistaken,' said Porthos, with dignity. "'But it appears evident to me that if they want to find us, they must come and seek us here.' "'In that you are perfectly right, my worthy friend,' replied Aramis, constantly consulting with his looks the countenance of Biscarrat, who had grown silent and constrained. "'You wish, monsieur de Biscarrat, to say something to us, to make us some overture, and you dare not. Is that true?' "'Ah, gentlemen and friends. It is because by speaking I betray the watchword. But, Hark, I hear a voice that frees mine by dominating it.' "'Canon,' said Porthos. "'Canon and musketry, too,' cried the bishop. On hearing at a distance among the rocks, these sinister reports of a combat which they thought had ceased. "'What can that be?' asked Porthos. "'A partir,' cried Aramis. "'That is just what I expected. What is that?' "'That the attack made by you was nothing but a fate. Is that not true, monsieur? And whilst your companions allowed themselves to be repulsed, you were certain of affecting a landing on the other side of the island.' "'Oh, several, monsieur.' "'We are lost, then,' said the bishop of Vaan quietly. "'Lost. That is possible,' replied the senior de Piafone. "'But we are not taken or hung.' And so saying, he rose from the table, went to the wall, and Cooley took down his sword and pistols, which he examined with the care of an old soldier who is preparing for battle, and who feels that life, in a great measure, depends upon the excellence and right conditions of his arms. At the report of the cannon, at the news of the surprise which might deliver up the island to the royal troops, the terrified crowd rushed precipitately to the fort to demand assistance and advice from their leaders. Aramis, pale and downcast, between two flambeaux, showed himself at the window which looked into the principal court, full of soldiers waiting for orders, and bewildered inhabitants imploring succor. "'My friends,' said Derbley, in a grave and sonorous voice. "'Mr. Fouquette, your protector, your friend, your father, has been arrested by an order of the king and thrown into the Bastille. A sustained yell of vengeful fury came floating up to the window at which the bishop stood, and enveloped him in a magnetic field. "'Avenge, Mr. Fouquette!' cried the most excited of his hearers. "'Death to the royalists!' "'No, my friends,' replied Aramis solemnly. "'No, my friends, no resistance. The king is master in his kingdom. The king is the mandatory of God. The king and God have struck Mr. Fouquette. Humble yourselves before the hand of God. Love God and the king who have struck Mr. Fouquette. But do not avenge your senior. Do not think of avenging him. You would sacrifice yourselves in vain. You, your wives and children, your property, your liberty. Lay down your arms, my friends. Lay down your arms, since the king commands you so to do, and retire peaceably to your dwellings. It is I who ask you to do so. It is I who beg you to do so. It is I who now, in the hour of need, command you to do so, in the name of Mr. Fouquette.' The crowd collected under the window uttered a prolonged roar of anger and terror. The soldiers of Louis XIV have reached the island. Continued Aramis. From this time it would no longer be a fight betwixt them and you. It would be a massacre. Be gone then. Be gone and forget. This time I command you, in the name of the Lord of Hosts.' The mutineers retired slowly, submissive, silent. Ah, what have you just been saying, my friend? Said Portos. Monsieur, said Biscara to the bishop. You may save all these inhabitants, but thus you will neither save yourself nor your friend. Monsieur de Biscara said the Bishop of Vaan with a singular accent of nobility and courtesy. Monsieur de Biscara, be kind enough to resume your liberty. I am very willing to do so, Monsieur, but that would render us a service, for when announcing to the king's lieutenant the submission of the islanders, you will perhaps obtain some grace for us on informing him of the manner in which that submission has been effected. Grace replied Portos with flashing eyes. What is the meaning of that word? Arama's touched the elbow of his friend roughly, as he had been accustomed to do in the days of their youth, when he wanted to warn Portos that he had committed, or was about to commit, a blunder. Portos understood him and was silent immediately. I will go, Monsieur, replied Biscara, a little surprised likewise at the word Grace, pronounced by the haughty musketeer, of and to whom, but a few minutes before, he had related with so much enthusiasm the heroic exploits with which his father had delighted him. Go them, Monsieur Biscara, said Arama's bowing to him, and at parting received the expression of our entire gratitude. But you, Monsieur, you whom I think it is an honor to call my friends, since you have been willing to accept that title, what will become of you in the meantime? replied the officer, very much agitated at taking leave of the two ancient adversaries of his father. We will wait here. But, mon Dieu, the order is precise and formal. I am Bishop of Vaan, Monsieur de Biscara, and they no more shoot a bishop than they hang a gentleman. Ah, yes, Monsieur, yes, Monsignor, replied Biscara, it is true, you are right, there is still that chance for you. Then I will depart, I will repair to the commander of the expedition the king's lieutenant. Adieu, then, Monsieur, or rather to meet again, I hope. The worthy officer, jumping upon a horse given him by Arama's, departed in the direction of the sound of cannon, which, by surging the crowd into the fort, had interrupted the conversation of the two friends with their prisoner. Arama's watched the departure, and when left alone with porthos, well, do you comprehend? said he. Muffois, no! Did not Biscara inconvenience you here? No, he is a brave fellow. Yes, but the grotto of Laqumaria, is it necessary all the world should know it? Ah, that is true, that is true, I comprehend, we are going to escape by the cavern. If you please.