This observation displeased the Skeleton, who leaned toward the Cripple, and whispered:
"Who is this?"
"A man with whom I have worked."
"Are you sure of him?"
"Yes; only he is not made of gall—but treacle!"
"Enough; I'll keep my eye upon him."
"Let us hear how Germain is a spy," said a prisoner.
"Explain yourself, Cripple," resumed the Skeleton, who watched Frank closely.
"Here you are," said the Cripple. "A Nantes man, named Velu, an old convict, brought up this young fellow, whose parents are unknown. When he was old enough, he placed him in a banking-house at Nantes, intending to make use of him for an affair he had in view. He had two strings to his bow—a forgery, and robbery of the banker's strong box! perhaps a hundred thousand francs to gain by the two. All is ready; Velu counted on the young man as on himself; this blackguard slept in the room where the strong box was kept; Velu told him his plan; Germain neither said yes nor no, but told his master all about it, and left the same evening for Paris."
The prisoners uttered violent threats and murmurs of indignation.