at the questioner as he replied, producing Dauban's pass—
"I can save your time, monsieur, I think. I have a pass."
"The date is yesterday's," and the officer shook his head. "Did you mean to start yesterday? I am afraid it is no use to me. But I need not trouble you further except in one very simple thing. There will be plenty of citizens who know you, and I will send a man with you to any one who will identify you. I don't distrust your word, of course, but I am compelled to do this work. And the Governor of Morvaix, as you may have heard, is somewhat exacting. I am really sorry," he said, rising. "Perhaps Madame Tourelle will await you here."
It was most courteously suggested, but none the less embarrassing on that account.
"I think not, monsieur. She has some matters to see to, I believe, which our earlier departure caused her to put off until our return this evening, and will no doubt prefer to see to them now while I fetch a citizen to vouch for me. For the present, monsieur, good morning. Accept my thanks for your courteous discharge of an unpleasant duty."
But the officer was not to be shaken off.
"I should have been glad to speak with her of Paris. It is some years since I was there. Ah, Paris!" and he sighed as if in pity for himself.
"When I return, monsieur, it will give me pleasure to see you again. I will not trouble you to send a man with me, but will bring back some one who will satisfy you as to me."
"Nay, monsieur, it is no more than a form. I will send a man," and while he turned away to give the necessary instructions, Pascal hurried out to Lucette.
"Go back to Gerard, and tell him the way is blocked. I'll find you at Babillon's. Go at once, for God's sake.
