“I think,” remarked he, “that Van Klopen is a sharp fellow; he knows that I am to be relied on.”
“Where do you think your bills are?”
“At St. Etienne’s, of course.”
The perfect innocence of the boy elicited from Andre a gesture of impatient commiseration.
“Listen to me,” said he, “and see if you can comprehend the awful position in which you have placed yourself.”
“I am listening, my dear fellow; pray go on.”
“You drew these bills through Verminet because Van Klopen would not give you credit.”
“Exactly so.”
“How, then, do you account for the fact that this man, who was at first disinclined to trust you, should without rhyme or reason, offer to supply you now as he did to-day?”
“The deuce! That never struck me. It does seem queer. Does he want to play me a nasty trick? But which of them is it—Verminet or Van Klopen?”