On the way to the maple grove, Pascal told the Count how an old man had called upon him and had disclosed his identity, under a pledge of secrecy, and declared that he could point out Vandemar Della Coscia.
“I agreed to give him one hundred louis d’or,” said Pascal, “if his information proved to be correct. Some time passed, and I heard nothing from him. Then he sent a letter by a messenger, who, in turn, intrusted it to a shepherd boy to deliver to me. I saw the messenger and learned that the possessor of the secret wished to know if the money would surely be paid. I have it with me, and if the man puts me on the track of Vandemar, he shall have the promised reward.”
“I will pay half of it,” said the Count, generously, but unguardedly.
They were now nearing the maple grove. The Count’s offer had not been heard by Pascal, but it did not escape Julien’s quick ear. The three men, with swords drawn, entered the grove.
“I am here,” said Pascal, in a hoarse whisper.
The same old man who had visited him at the castle emerged from a clump of bushes. He carried a small lantern, which he held up so that its rays fell on Pascal’s face and those of his companions. The man started back with a cry of dismay.
“We are friends,” said Pascal. “Is that you, Paoli?”
“Hush!” growled the man. “Mention no names—the trees have ears. Have you brought the money?”
“I have it with me,” said Pascal.
“Shall I come to the house and point him out, or shall I tell you how to identify him?” asked the man.