Monk, left alone with Athos, affected to speak to him on nothing but indifferent subjects while examining the vault in a cursory manner.

Then, hearing the horse's steps,-- "I leave you with your men, monsieur," said he, "and return to the camp.
You are perfectly safe." "I shall see you again, then, my lord ?" asked Athos.
"That is agreed upon, monsieur, and with much pleasure." Monk held out his hand to Athos.
"Ah! my lord, if you would!" murmured Athos.
"Hush! monsieur, it is agreed that we shall speak no more of that." And bowing to Athos, he went up the stairs, meeting about half-way his men, who were coming down.

He had not gone twenty paces, when a faint but prolonged whistle was heard at a distance.

Monk listened, but seeing nothing and hearing nothing, he continued his route.

Then he remembered the fisherman, and looked about for him; but the fisherman had disappeared.