The commissary, who had seemed so calm when he first came, now looked grave and perplexed. The moment for taking a decisive part had come, yet it was evident that he hesitated.
“You see, gentlemen,” he began, “our search has only confirmed our first suspicion.”
M. Fauvel and Prosper bowed assentingly.
“And what do you think, M. Fanferlot?” continued the commissary.
Fanferlot did not answer.
Occupied in studying the safe-lock, he manifested signs of a lively surprise. Evidently he had just made an important discovery.
M. Fauvel, Prosper, and the commissary rose, and surrounded him.
“Have you discovered any trace?” said the banker, eagerly.
Fanferlot turned around with a vexed air. He reproached himself for not having concealed his impressions.
“Oh!” said he, carelessly, “I have discovered nothing of importance.”