It was one of those capitulations, common in those days, by which the Commander of a garrison promised to surrender his fortress by the end of a given time. This promise, however, ceased to be valid should the fortress be relieved before the day fixed for its surrender. So Sire Robert's own condition was acute, and if the Dauphin were not in a position to come to his relief he himself would be caught in the coils of the enemy. Any promise of deliverance, however humble, was not to be treated lightly. Therefore, if he did not believe in Jeanne's announcement he at least listened to it readily. At length he said: "This matter should be given some thought, my little maid. Where do you bide? I would speak with you further concerning this." There was a stir of surprise among his men, for they noted with amazement that the Captain addressed the maiden as an equal. "With Catherine le Royer, the wheelwright's wife, messire," answered Jeanne. "I will speak with you again," repeated Sire Robert. And Jeanne and Lassois, understanding that the interview was over for this time, withdrew. Catherine and Henri le Royer were folk of Jeanne's own humble station. The good dame welcomed the girl warmly, at first for her mother's sake and then for her own. Jeanne had ever a way with women and girls, and but few days had elapsed ere she had completely won the heart of her hostess by her gentle ways, her skill in sewing and spinning, and her earnest faith. Together they attended mass at the parish church, spun, sewed, or busied themselves about the house. Sometimes Jeanne climbed the hill to the royal chapel which adjoined the Governor's castle, for there was a wonderful image of the Virgin in the crypt of Saint Mary's before which she loved to pray. News of her mission, the tidings that a young girl was come, who was appointed by God to save France spread through the town and surrounding country. The people flocked to see her, and those who came believed, won by her earnestness and simple sincerity. They were in no uncertainty at all as to her mission. A little mob hung about the cottage door to see her come and go, chiefly to church. The saying, "France lost by a woman shall be restored by a maid from the Marches of Lorraine," was on every lip. And the excitement grew. Again and again Jeanne sought the Governor, saying: "I must to the gentle Dauphin. It is the will of Messire, the King of Heaven, that I should wend to the gentle Dauphin. I am sent by the King of Heaven. I must go even if I go on my knees. My Lord Captain, in God's name, send me to the gentle Dauphin."