“Enough!” thundered the emperor. “I will not believe it. However, rather than have myself to reproach for a deplorable conflict, such as would occur by these reports, take four thousand soldiers and go yourself to meet D’Aigremont and assure yourself of his faithfulness.” A gleam of triumph lighted the eyes of the perfidious plotter, though his impassiveness did not betray the feelings of triumph which surged in his breast, as he, with his three fellow conspirators, left the royal presence. He had obtained part of what he desired, knowing that at the same time he had also been able to show every indication of zeal and profound attachment to the emperor. He hastened to put himself at the head of his troops and set out on his mission. It was this body of troops, headed by Ganelon, that barred the progress of the Duke d’Aigremont toward Paris. The duke paused in his march with a sinking heart. “Why,” he asked himself, as the royal banners came into view and apprised him that it was the king’s forces that faced him, “should the emperor send these troops to resist me?” He, however, determined to face the situation boldly and advanced with his escort toward the royal army. The duke approached within speaking distance, paused and respectfully saluted the royal colors. [Illustration: ANCIENT GATE OF MOUZON.] “May I inquire,” he demanded in a respectful tone, “why this army is against me?” “In good sooth, may’st thou!” replied Count Morillon, the lieutenant of Ganelon, “there can be but one way to meet traitors, but with force, neither can there be but one way to treat assassins.” At these insulting words the face of the duke flushed hotly, but with an effort of will he controlled himself and said with great deference: “This must be an error, peace has been made and there can be no excuse for recommencing a conflict that will perhaps prove fatal to each of us.” “Traitor!” shouted Morillon in reply. “It may be the emperor has pardoned thee, but the people have neither forgiven thee nor thy crimes.” At these words Ganelon shouted: “_A bas le assassin!_” and at the head of his troops bore down upon the duke and his small escort. But the latter was too brave a man to retreat before this threatening movement. Ganelon thought for a moment that the duke would seek safety in flight and ordered Morillon to get in his rear. But the brave duke resisted this movement, for it was his last thought to fly. Even had he so thought, it was now too late, such were the superior numbers against him. Morillon succeeded in getting in his rear and he was completely surrounded. Then commenced a most desperate battle and in a very short time the duke had lost half of his people, but the remainder fought with a determination to die rather than surrender. It was a conflict of giants. Each sword-stroke claimed its victim and even the horses joined the men in that frenzied struggle.