head. "I wish to prove to you that your suspicions are without
foundation," pursued the baron. "Rest assured that I shall prove
this conclusively. I will conduct the conversation in the form of
a cross-examination, and after the marquis's departure, you will
be obliged to confess that you were wrong."

"Or you, that I am right?"

"So be it. Any one is liable to be mistaken, and I am not
obstinate."

He was about to leave the room, when Pascal detained him. "I
scarcely know how to testify my gratitude even now, monsieur, and
yet--if I dared--if I did not fear to abuse your kindness, I
should ask one more favor."

"Speak, Monsieur Ferailleur."

"It is this, I do not know the Marquis de Valorsay; and if,
instead of leaving the door wide open, you would partially close
it, I should hear as distinctly, and I could also see him."

"Agreed," replied the baron. And, opening the door, he passed
into the dining-room, with his right hand cordially extended, and
saying, in his most genial tones: "Excuse me, my dear friend, for
keeping you waiting. I received your letter this morning, and I
was expecting you, but some unexpected business required my
attention just now. Are you quite well?"

As the baron entered the room, the marquis had stepped quickly