Ratoneau went out, snarling. Scarcely knowing which way he turned, he found himself in an outer vestibule at the foot of the great staircase. The autumn wind was blowing in, fresh and cool across the valley; grey light was beginning to glimmer, a shiver of dawn to pass over the world outside. A group of men were standing in the doorway, and Ratoneau found himself surrounded by them. One of them was Simon, with his head bound up; the others were some of the police employed to watch Chouan proceedings in the province generally.
"What, fool!" the General began furiously to Simon. "And all this time you—" he checked himself, remembering the presence of the others, who were looking at him curiously.
"We have something to report to Monsieur le Général," Simon said hurriedly, with an eager sign of caution. "To save time—as Monsieur le Préfet is not here. A new conspiracy has been hatched at Les Chouettes—Les Chouettes, monsieur! Some of the gentlemen are probably there now. Some are to meet at the Étang des Morts, to start for England this very morning. They will be caught easily. But Les Chouettes should be searched, monsieur—important arrests can be made there."
He came forward, almost pushing the General back against the stairs.
"There are enough of us," he said, "but not enough authority. If Monsieur le Général would go himself"—he came up closer and muttered in Ratoneau's ear—"I know all—they are there—we can at least arrest the men—safe this time—the police have real evidence, and I have seen nightly visitors to Monsieur de la Marinière. But they are there, monsieur—I saw them on their way—I met the priest going back. And on my word, Monsieur le Comte managed it neatly."
"Did he give you that broken head, fool? And why did you not come to me sooner?"
"That was a gentleman with a wooden leg. Yes, he delayed me half an hour."
"More fool you! Come, we must have these Chouans. Say nothing. Get me a horse—one that will carry double, mind you. Four of you fellows go on and watch the house. I and Simon will overtake you."
He swore between his teeth as he turned away, "I will be the death of him, and I will have her yet!"