He had, when the camp was in sight and all dangers at an end, taken his despatches from his boots; and these he at once presented to the duke, who came to the door of his tent, on hearing that a gentleman had arrived with letters from Coligny, himself.
"I am glad to get some news direct, at last," the Duc said; "for I have heard so many rumours, since I crossed the frontier, that I know not whether the Admiral is a fugitive or at the head of a great army.

Which is nearest the truth ?" "The latter, assuredly, sir.

The Admiral is at the head of as large a body of men as that with which he offered battle to the Duc d'Anjou, when winter first set in." "Come in, monsieur, and sit down, while I read the despatches.

How many days have you taken in traversing France ?" "It is the tenth day since I left La Rochelle, sir." "And have you ridden the same horses the whole way ?" "Yes, sir." "Then they must be good beasts, for you must have done over forty miles a day." "We carried no baggage, sir and, as you see, no armour; and we have husbanded our horses' strength, to the best of our power." The duke sat down, and read the papers of which Philip was the bearer.
"The Admiral speaks very highly of you, sir, both as regards discretion and bravery; and mentions that he knighted you, himself, for your conduct in the battle of Jarnac.

He need not have said so much, for the fact that he chose you to carry these despatches is the highest proof of his confidence.
"And now, tell me all particulars of your journey; and what news you have gathered, on your way, as to the movement and positions of the forces of the royal dukes.