“The horses are ready,” said the postmaster, entering the room at that moment.
The servant confirmed this statement.
“Presently,” replied the officer: “leave the room for a moment.” The postmaster and the servant withdrew “I am not joking,” he continued in French. “I can give you ten thousand roubles; I only want your absence and your papers.”
So saying, he opened his small box and took out of it several bank notes. The Frenchman opened his eyes. He did not know what to think.
“My absence ... my papers!” he repeated in astonishment. “Here are my papers ... but you are surely joking. What do you want my papers for?”
“That does not concern you. I ask you, do you consent or not?”
The Frenchman, still unable to believe his own ears, handed his papers to the young officer, who rapidly examined them.
“Your passport ... very well; your letter of recommendation ... let us see; the certificate of your birth ... capital! Well, here is your money; return home. Farewell.”
The Frenchman stood as if glued to the spot. The officer came back.
“I had almost forgotten the most important thing of all. Give me your word of honour that all this will remain a secret between us.... Your word of honour.”