“She may also be a source of danger. She may tell Gabrielle,” exclaimed de Proballe quickly. “By Heaven; the thing must be stopped.” But it was not Dauban’s wish to have Lucette harmed, so he made haste to check this thought. “Of herself she knows nothing, m’sieu; all hangs on the man’s story, and if both of them were removed from Malincourt, might not miladi herself take fright?” “A shrewd thought, Jacques. We must deal with the man alone. Do you think he can have seen my niece yet?” “No, m’sieu, I am sure. I watched him closely. But this morning he may seek her--nay, he will do so. He said as much.” “He must not,” exclaimed de Proballe earnestly. “At any cost that must be prevented.” “It will be difficult, m’sieu, but should not be impossible.” “You have a thought, I see. Speak it.” “It is not for me to offer counsel to you, m’sieu. But yesterday there was a cavalier who afforded some assistance to miladi in the market place. She is anxious to find him, and sent this Denys yesterday in search of him. If you could have knowledge that the stranger was to be found, say at some place a few leagues away, it might be possible to despatch Denys thither in quest of him, and thus enable time and perchance provide means and opportunity to deal with him. Miladi would appreciate any effort to find the cavalier, and some of the roads around Morvaix are not over-safe.” “You have a cunning brain, Jacques,” exclaimed de Proballe suddenly, with a sharp glance at his secretary. “Have you aught against this Denys?” Dauban did not shrink from the scrutiny, but answered deferentially-- “If my lord thinks I should place my feelings before my duty to him, I have served him uselessly all these years.” “I don’t think it, Jacques. You too well know on which side your interest lies, and you know also that I should not be a pleasant man to betray.” “I am naught if not your faithful servant, my lord,” replied Dauban. He knew he had said enough for his purpose and that his master would adopt the suggestion he had let fall. The seed he had sown would bear fruit; and he was astute enough not to appear too anxious and thus reveal his personal feelings. His plan was carried out. De Proballe sent for Denys, and after inquiring about the guest of the previous day he said he had news that the cavalier could be found at Beaucamp, an estate some four leagues west of Morvaix. He expressed his desire to please and surprise Gabrielle by finding the stranger, and also spoke feelingly about the honour of the family being concerned to thank the stranger for the service rendered to its young head, and thus despatched Denys on the mission before he could get a word with Gabrielle.