“Because our appointment was for nine o’clock,” said the bandit, “and it is just as unpunctual to be a quarter of an hour too soon as to arrive a quarter of an hour too late.”
“That is meant for a hit at me, Orlandi,” said Lucien, laughing.
“No, sir; you no doubt have your reasons; besides you have a companion, and it is likely on his account you may have started earlier, for I know your punctual habits, Monsieur Lucien, and I know also that you have been good enough to put yourself to inconvenience on my account frequently.”
“Oh, do not say anything about that, Orlandi; this will probably be the last time.”
“Have we not some few words to exchange upon that subject, Monsieur Lucien,” said the bandit.
“Yes, if you will have the goodness to follow me.”
“I am at your orders.”
Lucien turned towards me, and said:
“Will you excuse me a moment?”