“‘But he suddenly heard of the return of his brother Gaston to Paris. Gaston had made a fortune in Mexico; but being still a young man, and accustomed to a very active life, he purchased, near Orloron, an iron-mill, intending to spend the remainder of his life in working at it. Six months ago he died in the arms of his brother Louis. His death provided our De Clameran an immense fortune, and the title of marquis.’”
“Then,” said Prosper, “from all this I judge that M. de Clameran was very poor when I met him for the first time at M. Fauvel’s?”
“Evidently.”
“And about that time Lagors arrived from the country?”
“Precisely.”
“And about a month after his appearance Madeleine suddenly banished me?”
“Well,” exclaimed M. Verduret, “I am glad you are beginning to understand the state of affairs.”
He was interrupted by the entrance of a stranger.
The new-comer was a dandified-looking coachman, with elegant black whiskers, shining boots with fancy tops; buff breeches, and a yellow waistcoat with red and black stripes.
After cautiously looking around the room, he walked straight up to the table where M. Verduret sat.