of the principal, an indispensable clause. I shall write it: -- `In the case of M. d'Artagnan dying in this enterprise, liquidation will be considered made, and the Sieur Planchet will give quittance from that moment to the shade of Messire d'Artagnan for the twenty thousand livres paid by him into the hands of the said company.'"
This last clause made Planchet knit his brows a little, but when he saw the brilliant eye, the muscular hand, the supple and strong back of his associate, he regained his courage, and, without regret, he at once added another stroke to his signature. D'Artagnan did the same. Thus was drawn the first known company contract; perhaps such things have been abused a little since, both in form and principle.
"Now," said Planchet, pouring out the last glass of Anjou wine for D'Artagnan, -- "now go to sleep, my dear master."
"No," replied D'Artagnan; "for the most difficult part now remains to be done, and I will think over that difficult part."
"Bah!" said Planchet; "I have such great confidence in you, M. d'Artagnan, that I would not give my hundred thousand livres for ninety thousand livres down."
"And devil take me if I don't think you are right!" Upon which D'Artagnan took a candle and went up to his bedroom.
CHAPTER 21. In which D'Artagnan prepares to travel for the Firm of
Planchet and Company
D'Artagnan reflected to such good purpose during the night that his plan was settled by morning. "This is it," said he, sitting up in bed, supporting his elbow on his knee, and his chin in his hand; -- "this is it. I shall seek out forty steady, firm men, recruited among people a little compromised, but having habits of discipline. I shall promise them