“No, no,” continued D’Artagnan, “it was not the measured step of a foot soldier, nor was it the gait of a horseman. If I am not mistaken we have to do with a gentleman.”
“A gentleman!” exclaimed Athos. “Impossible! It would be a dishonor to all the nobility.”
“Fine sport, by Jove!” cried Porthos, with a laugh that shook the windows.
“Fine sport!”
“Are you still bent on departure, Athos?” asked D’Artagnan.
“No, I remain,” replied Athos, with a threatening gesture that promised no good to whomsoever it was addressed.
“Swords, then!” cried Aramis,