I gave my servant a theatre ticket, and he left the house at eight o’clock. A few minutes later, Daspry arrived. I showed him the letter.

“Well?” said he.

“Well, I have left the garden gate unlocked, so anyone can enter.”

“And you⁠—are you going away?”

“Not at all. I intend to stay right here.”

“But he asks you to go⁠—”

“But I am not going. I will be discreet, but I am resolved to see what takes place.”

“ Ma foi! ” exclaimed Daspry, laughing, “you are right, and I shall stay with you. I shouldn’t like to miss it.”

We were interrupted by the sound of the doorbell.