‘Sire, imprison, exile, kill every one in France and Europe; order me to arrest and poniard even whom you like — even were it Monsieur, your own brother; but do not touch one of the four musketeers, or if so, mordioux!’“

“My dear friend,” replied Athos, with perfect calmness, “I should like to persuade you of one thing; namely, that I wish to be arrested; that I desire above all things that my arrest should take place.”

D’Artagnan made a slight movement of his shoulders.

“Nay, I wish it, I repeat, more than anything; if you were to let me escape, it would be only to return of my own accord, and constitute myself a prisoner. I wish to prove to this young man, who is dazzled by the power and