“Etteniotna?” asked M. de Crosne.
“Yes.”
“Well, sire, it is a man called Reteau.”
“You know his name, and have not arrested him!”
“Sire, nothing is more easy. I have an order already prepared in my portfolio.”
“Then why is it not done?”
M. de Crosne looked at the count.
“I see, M. de Crosne wishes me to leave,” said he.
“No,” replied the king, “remain. And you, M. de Crosne, speak freely.”
“Well, sire, I wished first to consult your majesty whether you would not rather give him some money, and send him away to be hanged elsewhere.”