By that order, the second
company of the fourth battalion were commanded to proceed to the
crossroads of Halleux in the forest of Arques, gather up the
furniture and other articles deposited there, and deliver same to
Monsieur Georges Devanne, owner of the Thibermesnil castle, at
three o'clock. Signed: Col. Beauvel.
"At the crossroads," explained the sergeant, "we found everything
ready, lying on the grass, guarded by some passers-by. It seemed
very strange, but the order was imperative."
One of the officers examined the signature. He declared it a
forgery; but a clever imitation. The wagons were unloaded, and the
goods restored to their proper places in the castle.
During this commotion, Nelly had remained alone at the extreme end
of the terrace, absorbed by confused and distracted thoughts.
Suddenly, she observed Velmont approaching her. She would have
avoided him, but the balustrade that surrounded the terrace cut off
her retreat. She was cornered. She could not move. A gleam of
sunshine, passing through the scant foliage of a bamboo, lighted up
her beautiful golden hair. Some one spoke to her in a low voice:
"Have I not kept my promise?"
Arsene Lupin stood close to her.
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