“Nonsense!”
“I swear it! And it will be so much the worse for you.”
“So much the worse for me! How so?” she inquired, trying to appear unconcerned and succeeding only in looking terribly in earnest. Without answering her question Firmin, after a brief hesitation, held out his hand.
“Is it agreed?” he asked with a significant look.
In reply Catherine raised her hand and the compact was sealed.
“In order to accomplish my purpose, he must remain out to-night.”
“He shall do so.”
“When you hear a gunshot——”
He stopped. It was useless to continue or to explain, and as his consultation with Monsieur Eugène was now objectless, he left the house.
Catherine, however, was not yet ready to make her adieus. Her errand was still to be performed.