M. Gillenormand said in a low voice and as though speaking to himself:—
“It is the slasher’s handwriting.”
The aunt examined the paper, turned it about in all directions, then put it back in its case.
At the same moment a little oblong packet, enveloped in blue paper, fell from one of the pockets of the greatcoat. Mademoiselle Gillenormand picked it up and unfolded the blue paper.
It contained Marius’ hundred cards. She handed one of them to M. Gillenormand, who read: “Le Baron Marius Pontmercy.”
The old man rang the bell. Nicolette came. M. Gillenormand took the ribbon, the case, and the coat, flung them all on the floor in the middle of the room, and said:—