“Yes, you are right; I saw the name on the door as I drove along.”
Jeanne was not mistaken—the fish had taken the hook; and the next morning the cardinal drove to M. Bœhmer. He intended to preserve his incognito, but they knew him, and called him “Monseigneur” directly.
“Well, gentlemen,” said he, “if you know me, keep my secret from others.”
“Monseigneur may rely upon us. What can we do for your eminence?”
“I come to buy the necklace which you showed her majesty.”
“Really we are in despair, but it is too late.”
“How so?”
“It is sold.”
“Impossible, as you offered it only yesterday to the queen.”
“Who again refused it, so our other bargain held good.”