"So! He alone?"
"Yes, monsieur."
"In a word, mademoiselle, then, what is it that you want?"
The inspector started back, confused.
"What's that?" he growled, warily.
"I said 'liberty.' I mean freedom from this service! I'm tired, monsieur! I would be free! I would live!"
The veteran looked at her first with incredulity, then astonishment, then pity. He began to think the girl was really crazy, and that her story was probably all a myth. He suddenly turned the lantern from under his cloak upon her upturned face, and he saw that which thrilled him, but which he could not understand.
It was the first time within Inspector Loup's experience that he had found any one wanting to quit—actually refusing good money to quit—the Secret System, having once enjoyed its delightful atmosphere.
"Monsieur l'Inspecteur?"