"Well, my dear sir, their story seemed to me so absurd, that I did not think it worth while to trouble you."
"But they asked to see me."
"True."
"And I fear as you did not forward their request, I shall be obliged to mention your name, to our ambassador in Paris."
"For Heaven's sake do not! If such a thing were known to the minister of justice, I should lose my situation at once."
"Then if I am silent on this matter, you must render me every assistance in finding out the truth about these prisoners."
"Willingly. What can I do?"
"I should like to see the youth who calls himself Harkaway; but first of all, where is the gaoler who usually has charge of these prisoners?"
"Gone to his home, monsieur. The ordinary officials are, as you are doubtless aware, replaced by a military guard, between sunset and sunrise."
"Good, then oblige me by bringing him here."