Overcome by so great a mark of confidence, Baisemeaux unhesitatingly wrote out an acknowledgement of a debt of one hundred and fifty thousand francs, payable at the pleasure of the prelate.

Aramis, who had, by glancing over the governor's shoulder, followed the pen as he wrote, put the acknowledgement into his pocket without seeming to have read it, which made Baisemeaux perfectly easy.

"Now," said Aramis, "you will not be angry with me if I were to carry off one of your prisoners ?" "What do you mean ?" "By obtaining his pardon, of course.

Have I not already told you that I took a great interest in poor Seldon ?" "Yes, quite true, you did so." "Well ?" "That is your affair; do as you think proper.

I see you have an open hand, and an arm that can reach a great way." "Adieu, adieu." And Aramis left, carrying with him the governor's best wishes..