The Saint-
Martins rallied me. But Daspry, who took an interest in such
matters, came to see me, made a study of the affair, but reached no
conclusion.
A few mornings later, the door-bell rang, and Antoine came to
inform me that a gentleman desired to see me. He would not give
his name. I directed Antoine to show him up. He was a man of
about forty years of age with a very dark complexion, lively
features, and whose correct dress, slightly frayed, proclaimed a
taste that contrasted strangely with his rather vulgar manners.
Without any preamble, he said to me--in a rough voice that confirmed
my suspicion as to his social position:
"Monsieur, whilst in a cafe, I picked up a copy of the `Gil Blas,'
and read your article. It interested me very much.
"Thank you."
"And here I am."
"Ah!"
"Yes, to talk to you. Are all the facts related by you quite
correct?"
"Absolutely so."
"Well, in that case, I can, perhaps, give you some information."
"Very well; proceed."
"No, not yet. First, I must be sure that the facts are exactly as
you have related them."
"I have given you my word. What further proof do you want?"
"I must remain alone in this room.
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