Chapter 24
Auguste was up early. He was anxious to get back to Nicole as quickly as possible. He was smiling and he had gotten a good night’s sleep. Nothing was going to upset his plans, he was convinced of that.
He went to join his brother in the dining room for breakfast. As he entered he saw a courier talking to Edmond, who had a concerned look on his face.
The two of them looked up as he entered the room.
Auguste looked from one to the other. They hadn’t said a thing, especially Edmond. This was not like him.
“Is there anything wrong?� he asked, puzzled.
“Yes, monsieur,� the courier said, bowing low, “Yes there is, it is about the King.�
“What about the King?� Auguste said, suddenly paying attention. “What’s going on?�
“This note will explain everything, Monsieur le Captain,� and the courier handed him the paper.
Auguste broke the seal and opened the letter.
He looked up a little angry.
“Why have you not told me this earlier?�
“You fell asleep early, Auguste,� Edmond said, “we thought best not to disturb you.�
“You could have for this, brother,� he said, turning on his heels.
“Listen, Auguste,� Edmond said, turning Auguste to face him. You are here and he is there. What can you possibly do for him?�
Auguste frowned. “I will keep him company if he demands it. He is still my King, Edmond, as he is yours. I will not abandon him in his hour of need. “
When he saw that there were no more protests, he turned once again in the direction of the exit and walked out.