Meanwhile, the Judge had continued his questioning.
“And where, madame, did you obtain your maid?”
“In Rome. She was there, out of a place. I heard of her at an agency and registry office, when I was looking for a maid a month or two ago.”
“Then she has not been long in your service?”
“No; as I tell you, she came to me in December last.”
“Well recommended?”
“Strongly. She had lived with good families, French and English.”
“And with you, what was her character?”
“Irreproachable.”
“Well, so much for Hortense Petitpré. She is not far off, I dare say. When we want her we shall be able to lay hands on her, I do not doubt, madame may rest assured.”