soldiers on the banks to receive Charles II. — ”

“You would obey?” cried Athos, joyfully.

“Pardon me,” said Monk, smiling, “I was going on — I, a gray-headed man — in truth, how could I forget myself? was going to speak like a foolish young man.”

“Then you would not obey?” said Athos.

“I do not say that either, monsieur. The welfare of my country before everything. God, who has given me the power, has, no doubt, willed that I should have that power for the good of all, and He has given me, at the same time, discernment. If the parliament were to order such a thing, I should reflect.”

The brow of Athos became clouded.