They alone stand between Henry of Navarre and the throne of France and, should he succeed to it, his intimates will gain honours, rank, and possessions.

There is not a young noble but would feel honoured by being selected for the post.
"As for fighting, no one can say how long these troubles may last; and I am greatly mistaken if those round Henry of Navarre, when he reaches manhood, will not have their full share of it." Therefore, when the two newly-made young knights went to La Rochelle, for quiet and sea air, it was with the understanding that, as soon as their strength was thoroughly recovered, Francois should resign the command of the troop to Philip, and would himself ride with the Prince of Navarre and his cousin Conde.

Francois had at once written to his mother, with the news of his appointment and, a few days after they reached La Rochelle, received an answer expressing her gratification.
"I rejoice," she said, "not only because it is a post of high honour, but because it will take you somewhat out of the heat of the fray.

I have not hesitated to let you risk your life in the cause; but you are my only son and, were you slain, I should be alone in the world; and the title would go to one of your cousins, for whom I care nothing; and it will be a comfort for me to know, in the future, you will not be running such fearful risks." At La Rochelle they took up their abode at Maitre Bertram's, and were most kindly received by him and his daughter.
"It is but two years since you landed here with madame, your mother, Monsieur Fletcher.

You were but a stripling then, though you gave wonderful promise of size and strength.