The order was peremptory.
"Good!" said Tison, "so much the less trouble."
Dixmer and Morand exchanged looks of disappointment; then waiting till the hour for duty had struck (though nothing could now be attempted), they both went to walk between the cabin and the wall running toward Rue Portefoin. Morand began to measure the distance, taking geometrical steps,—that is to say of three feet.
"What is the distance?" inquired Dixmer.
"Sixty to sixty-one feet," replied Morand.
"How many days will be required?"
Morand considered, then traced on the ground with a stick some geometrical signs, which he immediately effaced.
"Seven days at least," said he.
"Maurice will be on guard in eight days," murmured Dixmer. "It is, then, absolutely imperative that within eight days we should be reconciled to Maurice."
The half-hour struck; Morand, sighing, resumed his musket, and conducted by the corporal, went to relieve the sentinel who was patrolling the platform before the tower.