The inspector contented himself with the remark:⁠—

“The lodgers have passkeys with which to get in at night. You must have one.”

“Yes,” said Marius.

“Have you it about you?”

“Yes.”

“Give it to me,” said the inspector.

Marius took his key from his waistcoat pocket, handed it to the inspector and added:⁠—

“If you will take my advice, you will come in force.”