“Stick to that,” said he, “and I can say to you, ‘Hope.’ Upon the day on which the young man’s business is settled you will get a paper from me, which will prove your complete innocence, and enable you to say, ‘I have been grossly maligned.’”
“May the dear young man’s business be settled sharp,” said she.
“It will not be long before it is so; but, remember, in the meantime you must keep an eye upon him.”
“I will do so.”
“And, remember, report to me whoever comes to see him, no matter who it may be.”
“Not a soul can go upstairs without my seeing or hearing him.”
“Well, if any one, save the master, Dr. Hortebise, or myself comes, do not lose a moment, but come and report.”
“You shall know in five minutes.”
“I wonder if that is all I have to say?” mused Tantaine. “Ah! I remember: note exactly the hour at which this young man comes and goes. Do not have any conversation with him; answer all questions he addresses you with a simple ‘Yes,’ or ‘No,’ and, as I said before, watch his every movement.”
And Tantaine turned to go away, paying no attention to the woman’s eager protestations.