This story returned to my mind while I looked at the silver
toilet things, and a certain space of time must have elapsed
during these reflections, for no one was left in the room but
myself and an attendant, who, standing near the door, was
carefully watching me to see that I did not pocket anything.

I went up to the man, to whom I was causing so much anxiety.
"Sir," I said, "can you tell me the name of the person who
formerly lived here?"

"Mademoiselle Marguerite Gautier."

I knew her by name and by sight.

"What!" I said to the attendant; "Marguerite Gautier is dead?"

"Yes, sir."

"When did she die?"

"Three weeks ago, I believe."

"And why are the rooms on view?"

"The creditors believe that it will send up the prices. People
can see beforehand the effect of the things; you see that induces
them to buy."

"She was in debt, then?"