Athos talked of the discretion of Grimaud, who never spoke a word but when his master unlocked his mouth.

Porthos boasted of the strength of Mousqueton, who was big enough to thrash four men of ordinary size.

Aramis, confiding in the address of Bazin, made a pompous eulogium on his candidate.

Finally, d'Artagnan had entire faith in the bravery of Planchet, and reminded them of the manner in which he had conducted himself in the ticklish affair of Boulogne.
These four virtues disputed the prize for a length of time, and gave birth to magnificent speeches which we do not repeat here for fear they should be deemed too long.
"Unfortunately," said Athos, "he whom we send must possess in himself alone the four qualities united." "But where is such a lackey to be found ?" "Not to be found!" cried Athos.

"I know it well, so take Grimaud." "Take Mousqueton." "Take Bazin." "Take Planchet.