The little marquis wore a mysterious look, as if all the political
secrets of the period were shut in his heart or head, and he lowered his
voice as he answered: "Because I am commissioned to ascertain its
whereabouts for a friend."
Flora laughed, and pointed to the Inn into which Gabrielle had retreated.
"You have not far to seek to oblige your friend," she said. "There it
stands behind you."
Chavernay swung round on his heels, and surveyed the modest little
hostelry with amusement. "The shelter of the fugitive nymph. Oh, now I
understand my friend's anxiety! Pretty child, my duty forces me to leave
you when my inclination would fling me into your arms. If I may wait upon
you later--"
This time Flora had evidently made up her mind that it would be
indiscreet of her further to prolong the colloquy. She dipped him a
courtesy, half mocking and half respectful, wished him good-day, and,
diving into the caravan, slammed the door in his face. The little marquis
seemed at first astonished at the austerity of the gypsy girl.
"Dido retires to her cave," he thought to himself. "Shall Æneas pursue?"
He made for a moment as if to advance and force his company upon the
seeming reluctant damsel. Then his volatile thoughts flickered back to
the girl who had entered the Inn. "Methinks," he reflected, "I would as
soon play Paris to yonder Helen. But I must not keep his Majesty waiting.
No wonder he seeks the Inn of the Three Graces." For it was plain to the
little gentleman that he had now discovered the reason why his august
master and sovereign had done him the honor to select him as scout to
find out the whereabouts of the unknown tavern.