"I told that police fellow," he went on very mildly, "that I was ready to go with you to Sonnay, where the Prefect, of course, is the right person to deal with any suspected conspiracy. I also told him, and I tell you, that I will not have my house searched without the Prefect's warrant."
"And pray, how are you going to prevent it?" said Ratoneau, staring at him.
"Try it, and you will see," said Monsieur Joseph.
"Your nephew is shut up there, I know. He is taking care of his bride, and is afraid to come out and face me," said Ratoneau, with a frightful grin. "He will not dare to resist by force—miserable little coward!"
"All this shall be paid for by and by," Monsieur Joseph said to himself, consolingly. Aloud he said, "It happens that my nephew is not there, Monsieur le Général."
"Not there! where are they gone then? I believe that is a lie."
Monsieur Joseph bowed politely, with his hand on his sword.
"Allow me to remark, Monsieur le Général Ratoneau, that you are a cheat and a coward."
Ratoneau turned purple, and almost choked.
"Monsieur! You dare to use such words to me! I shall call my men up, and—"