“Yes, sire,” said D’Epernon, “I also had bad dreams last night; but, in spite of that, my hand is steady and fit for action.” “Yes,” said Chicot, “you dreamed you had blood on your boots; that is not a bad dream, for it signifies that you will be a conqueror, like Alexander or Cæsar.” “My friends,” said Henri, “remember you fight only for honor; the past night has seated me firmly on my throne, therefore do not think of me; and, above all things, no false bravery; you wish to kill your enemies, not to die yourselves.” The gentlemen were now ready, and it only remained to take leave of their master. “Do you go on horseback?” asked he. “No, sire, on foot.” They each kissed his hand, and D’Epernon said, “Sire, bless my sword.” “Not so, D’Epernon; give up your sword--I have a better one for each of you. Chicot, bring them here.” “No, sire, send your captain of the guards; I am but a Pagan, and they might lose their virtue by coming through my hands.” “What are these swords, sire?” said Schomberg. “Italian swords, my son, forged at Milan.” “Thanks, sire.” “Now go, it is time,” said the king, who could hardly control his emotion. “Sire,” said Quelus, “shall we not have your majesty’s presence to encourage us?” “No, that would not be right; you will be supposed to fight without any one being cognizant of it, and without my sanction. Let it appear to be the result of a private quarrel.” When they were gone, the king threw himself down in tears. “Now,” said Chicot, “I will go to see this duel, for I have an idea that something curious will happen with regard to D’Epernon.” And he went off. Henri shut himself up in his own room, first saying to Crillon, who knew what was to take place, “If we are conquerors, Crillon, come and tell me; if not, strike three blows on the door.” CHAPTER XCV. THE FRIENDS OF BUSSY. The friends of the Duc d’Anjou had passed as good and tranquil a night as those of the king, although their master had not taken the same care of them. After a good supper, they had all retired to sleep at Antragues’s house, which was nearest to the field of battle. Antragues, before supper, had gone to take leave of a little milliner whom he adored, Ribeirac had written to his mother, and Livarot had made his will. They were up early in the morning, and dressed themselves in red breeches and socks, that their enemies might not see their blood, and they had doublets of gray silk. They wore shoes without heels, and their pages carried their swords, that their arms might not be fatigued. The weather was splendid, for love, war, or walking; and the sun gilded the roofs, on which the night dew was sparkling. The streets were dry, and the air delightful. Before leaving the house, the young men had sent to the Hôtel d’Anjou to inquire for Bussy, and had received a reply that he had gone out the evening before and had not yet returned.