The banditti seemed alarmed at my action. Jacques half rose from his chair, put his hand into his bosom, and I discovered the haft of a dagger. I returned to my seat with tranquillity, and affected not to have observed their confusion.

“You have not suited my taste, honest friend,” said I, addressing myself to Baptiste. “I never can drink champagne without its producing a violent illness. I swallowed a few mouthfuls ere I was aware of its quality, and fear that I shall suffer for my imprudence.”

Baptiste and Jacques exchanged looks of distrust.

“Perhaps,” said Robert, “the smell may be disagreeable to you.”

He quitted his chair, and removed the goblet. I observed, that he examined, whether it was nearly empty.

“He must have drank sufficient,” said he to his brother in a low voice, while he reseated himself.

Marguerite looked apprehensive, that I had tasted the liquor: a glance from my eye reassured her.