Even some peaceable folk who found themselves in our road took the precaution of slipping into doorways, or stood aside to give us the full width of the street.
I remarked--and I think it increased my anxiety--that our leader was dressed with more than usual care and richness, but, unlike his attendants, wore no arms.

He took occasion, as we hurried along, to give me a word of advice.

'M.

de Marsac,' he said, looking at me suddenly, 'my nephew has given me to understand that you place yourself entirely in my hands.' I replied that I asked for no better fortune, and, whatever the event, thanked him from the bottom of my heart.
'Be pleased then to keep silence until I bid you speak,' he replied sharply, for he was one of those whom a sudden stress sours and exacerbates.

'And, above all, no violence without my orders.