Hippolyte looked at his master in intelligent anticipation.
The Comte spoke slowly, without looking at Hippolyte.
"As you know, I arrived here last Tuesday morning. If the police or any other inquirer should question you, do not forget that fact. I arrived on Tuesday, the 14th—not Wednesday, the 15th. You understand?"
"Perfectly, Monsieur le Comte."
"In an affair where a lady is concerned, it is always necessary to be discreet. I feel certain, Hippolyte, that you can be discreet."
"I can be discreet, Monsieur."
"And Marie?"
"Marie also. I will answer for her."
"That is well then," murmured the Comte.
When Hippolyte had withdrawn, the Comte sipped his black coffee with a reflective air. Occasionally he frowned, once he shook his head slightly, twice he nodded it. Into the midst of these cogitations came Hippolyte once more.