And in a tone loud enough to be heard in the closet she read the note: "A friend of Prosper who can neither receive you, nor present himself at your house, is very anxious to speak to you. Be in the stage-office opposite the Saint Jacques tower, tonight at night precisely, and the writer will approach, and tell you what he has to say. I have appointed this public place for the rendezvous so as to relieve your mind of all fear." "And you are going to this rendezvous?" "Certainly, madame." "But it is imprudent, foolish; it is a snare to entrap you." "It makes no difference," interrupted Gypsy. "I am so unfortunate already that I have nothing more to dread. Any change would be a relief." And, without waiting to hear any more, she went out. The door had scarcely closed upon Mme. Gypsy, before Fanferlot bounced out of the closet. The mild detective was white with rage, and swore violently. "What is the meaning of this?" he cried. "Am I to stand by and have people walking over the Archangel, as if it were a public street?" Mme. Alexandre stood trembling, and dared not speak. "Was ever such impudence heard of before!" he continued. "A messenger comes into my house, and goes upstairs without being seen by anybody! I will look into this. And the idea of you, Mme. Alexandre, you, a sensible woman, being idiotic enough to persuade that little viper not to keep the appointment!" "But, my dear--" "Had you not sense enough to know that I would follow her, and discover what she is attempting to conceal? Come, make haste, and help me, so that she won't recognize me." In a few minutes Fanferlot was completely disguised by a thick beard, a wig, and one of those long linen blouses worn by dishonest workmen, who go about seeking labor, and, at the same time, hoping they may not find any. "Have you your handcuffs?" asked the solicitous Mme. Alexandre. "Yes, yes: make haste and put that letter to M. de Clameran in the post-office, and--and keep good watch." And without waiting for his wife's reply, who
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