The ladies were taken to the countess's apartments, while the gentlemen went to aid Francois in the defence.
An hour and a half after the lads returned to the castle, the men-at-arms who had been sent to watch the road came in.

They reported that the column approaching consisted of about three hundred mounted men, and fifteen hundred infantry.
Roger had, all this time, been standing by the side of his saddled horse.

Philip hurried to him, as soon as the men came in.
"Three hundred horsemen and fifteen hundred foot! Ride at full speed to La Rochelle.

Tell the Admiral the numbers, and request him, in the name of the countess, to come to her assistance.

Beg him to use all speed, for no doubt they will attack hotly, knowing that aid will soon be forthcoming to us." Roger leapt to his saddle, and galloped out through the gate.