The place is badly chosen, I admit, but you will perhaps have the goodness to accompany me to my apartments, which are on the staircase at the end of this gallery." "I follow you, monsieur," said De Wardes.
"Are you alone here ?" said D'Artagnan.
"No; I have M.Manicamp and M.de Guiche, two of my friends." "That's well," said D'Artagnan; "but two persons are not sufficient; you will be able to find a few others, I trust." "Certainly," said the young man, who did not know what object D'Artagnan had in view.

"As many as you please." "Are they friends ?" "Yes, monsieur." "Real friends ?" "No doubt of it." "Very well, get a good supply, then.

Do you come, too, Raoul; bring M.
de Guiche and the Duke of Buckingham." "What a disturbance," replied De Wardes, attempting to smile.

The captain slightly signed to him with his hand, as though to recommend him to be patient, and then led the way to his apartments.

[2].