But he was so much involved in his mental struggle with this new phase of detective life that he did not answer. He had figured it out.
"So! I think I understand now. But why quit? You have struck something better; but, surely, mademoiselle, one can be in love and yet do one's duty to the State."
"Monsieur!"
"Oh, well; you can resign, can't you? Nobody hinders you." And be a fool! was in Monsieur l'Inspecteur's tone.
"Yes; but that is not all, monsieur. I want it with your free consent and written quittance,—and more, your word of honor that I will never be molested by you or your agents,—that I will be as if I had never been!"
"And if I agree to all this——"
"I shall prove my good faith."
"When?"
"At once!"
"Good! Then we do understand each other," he said, taking her hand for the first time in his life.