I am here, Sire, replied the musketeer, advancing.
Well, Monsieur, said the King, fixing his clear eye upon dArtagnan, what have you to say to me?
I, Sire! replied the latter, who watched the first blow of his adversary to make a good retort; I have nothing to say to your Majesty, unless it be that you have caused me to be arrested, and here I am.
The King was going to reply that he had not had dArtagnan arrested, but the sentence appeared too much like an excuse, and he was silent. DArtagnan likewise preserved an obstinate silence.
Monsieur, at length resumed the King, what did I charge you to go and do at Belle-Isle? Tell me, if you please.
The King, while speaking these words, looked fixedly at his captain. Here dArtagnan was too fortunate,- the King gave him so fine an openin
