Lorin had calumniated Simon; he could read all kinds of print, and manuscript also when sufficiently large. But the writing in the little billet was so minute that Simon was obliged to have recourse to his spectacles. He consequently placed it on the window, while he proceeded to take an inventory of the contents of his pockets; but while thus engaged, the Citizen Agricola opened the door of the antechamber exactly facing the little window, thereby causing a current of air which blew away the little paper, light as a feather from a bird's wing, so that when Simon, after a moment's exploration, had discovered his spectacles, placed them on his nose, and turned himself round, his labor was lost,—the paper had disappeared.
"There was a paper here," roared Simon, crimson with rage and disappointment,—"there was a paper here. Look to yourself, Citizen Municipal, for it must and shall be found."
And he descended precipitately, leaving Maurice in a state of stupefaction.
Ten minutes afterward three members of the Commune entered the keep. The queen was still upon the platform, and strict orders had been issued that she should be kept in total ignorance of all that had just occurred. The members of the Commune desired to be conducted to her presence.
The first object which met their view was the crimson carnation, which she still held in her hand. They regarded her with surprise, and approaching her,—
"Give us this flower," said the president of the deputation. The queen, who had not expected this intrusion, started and hesitated.
"Surrender your flower, Madame," said Maurice, in a sort of alarm, "I entreat you."
The queen tendered them the carnation. The president took it and retired, followed by his colleagues, into a neighboring apartment to make an examination, and draw up the procès-verbal.
They opened the flower—it was empty.
Maurice breathed afresh.