Duplay examined them, the women watching with great interest the while. The carpenter declared it to be very possible, as the hands looked used to handling wood and iron.
"In war, most likely!" said Robespierre.
The Incorruptible then stated his suspicions more precisely. The man was perhaps a chouan, come in disguise from Vendée to stab him in the excitement of the fête!
The women cried out in horror at the thought, and added, "Of course he was not without accomplices!"
As this idea fastened in his mind, Robespierre wished to know if the young man's room had been searched. Héron had not neglected to do so, as could well be imagined! He had, however, only found a few scattered clothes and a valise, which one of his men had with him. He had brought it to open before Robespierre.
"Why didn't you say so, then? Be quick and open it!"
Héron tried a set of keys, and after some delay the valise was unlocked.
The police-agent examined its contents, and enumerated them: linen, articles of toilet, and an ivory casket mounted in silver. He took out the ivory casket, which drew a cry of admiration from mother Duplay, and passed it from hand to hand. Héron then drew forth a rather heavy roll, from which he tore the paper wrapper, disclosing a number of louis d'or. He deposited them on the table, and set to work to count them, remarking that the young apprentice was, after all, richer than himself!
Meanwhile the agent continued his search.
"Ah, some letters!" he exclaimed.