The chevalier looked with surprise and satisfaction at the seal on theletter, and, breaking it, spread open the paper, fumbled for the eye-glass which he always carried inside his waistcoat, and began readingdiligently.

Meanwhile Ranulph turned to Guida. "To-morrow Jean Touzel and his wifeand I go to the Ecrehos Rocks in Jean's boat," said he. "A vessel wasdriven ashore there three days ago, and my carpenters are at work on her.If you can go and the wind holds fair, you shall be brought back safe bysundown--Jean says so too."