There is so much at stake." Armand made no further comment just then.

But the others looked astonished.

Armand had but asked a simple question, and Blakeney's reply seemed almost like a rebuke--so circumstantial too, and so explanatory.
He was so used to being obeyed at a word, so accustomed that the merest wish, the slightest hint from him was understood by his band of devoted followers, that the long explanation of his orders which he gave to Armand struck them all with a strange sense of unpleasant surprise.
Hastings was the first to break the spell that seemed to have fallen over the party.
"We leave at daybreak, of course," he said, "as soon as the gates are open.

We can, I know, get one of the carriers to give us a lift as far as St.Germain.There, how do we find Achard ?" "He is a well-known farmer," replied Blakeney.

"You have but to ask." "Good.