He sent one servant speedingon horseback for a surgeon and brought out others with a litter, and met the little procession as they were nearing the terrace.
Denys was laid carefully and gently on the litter and borne up the broad steps into the house, Lucette walking by his side and holding his hand.
The other three remained at the foot of the steps, the stranger leaning for a space against one of the pediments of the marble balustrade to recover his breath.
"We shall be glad to know, monsieur, to whom we are indebted for this most timely service as well as for that rendered yesterday to my niece in the market place," said de Proballe. "It seems to me we have met before; but I am getting an old man, and my memory is apt to fail me at times."
The question appeared to be momentarily embarrassing and, to cover the pause, the stranger breathed heavily and made a gesture of fatigue.
"You will come in and rest, monsieur," said Gabrielle, noticing this.
But the hesitation passed, and glancing first at Gabrielle with a smile of thanks for her thoughtfulness, he turned to de Proballe and said firmly—
"I am glad to have been of service to mademoiselle, monsieur. I am known as Gerard de Cobalt."
"Gerard de Cobalt!" both exclaimed in a breath; de Proballe adding "Our Gerard. Then of a truth are you welcome indeed to Malincourt."
"To Malincourt!" exclaimed Gerard, amazed at the effect of the name he had given. He knew of course where he was and who they were who spoke to him; but why they should welcome him in this way passed his understanding. And when he turned from de Proballe to Gabrielle and saw that her cheeks were aglow with blushes and her eyes bright and dancing with gladness, his bewilderment was all the greater.
