His guests,
Monsieur and Madame d'Androl and Miss Nelly, were introduced; and
it was then noticed that one of the expected guests had not
arrived. It was Horace Velmont. Would he come? His absence had
awakened the suspicions of Mon. Devanne. But at twelve o'clock he
arrived. Devanne exclaimed:
"Ah! here you are!"
"Why, am I not punctual?" asked Velmont.
"Yes, and I am surprised that you are....after such a busy night!
I suppose you know the news?"
"What news?"
"You have robbed the castle."
"Nonsense!" exclaimed Velmont, smiling.
"Exactly as I predicted. But, first escort Miss Underdown to the
dining-room. Mademoiselle, allow me--"
He stopped, as he remarked the extreme agitation of the young girl.
Then, recalling the incident, he said:
"Ah! of course, you met Arsene Lupin on the steamer, before his
arrest, and you are astonished at the resemblance. Is that it?"
She did not reply. Velmont stood before her, smiling. He bowed.
She took his proffered arm. He escorted her to her place, and took
his seat opposite her. During the breakfast, the conversation
related exclusively to Arsene Lupin, the stolen goods, the secret
passage, and Sherlock Holmes.
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