When we reached the rendezvous, a mile beyond the gate, we found Fresnoy already there, taking shelter in the lee of a big holly-tree.

He had four horsemen with him, and on our appearance rode forward to meet us, crying heartily, 'Welcome, M.le Capitaine!' 'Welcome, certainly,' I answered, pulling the Cid up sharply, and holding off from him.

'But who are these, M.Fresnoy ?' and I pointed with my riding-cane to his four companions.
He tried to pass the matter off with a laugh.

'Oh! these ?' he said.
'That is soon explained.

The Evangelists would not be divided, so I brought them all--Matthew Mark, Luke, and John--thinking it likely you might fail to secure your men.