After two hours of persistent inquiry and assiduous search the marquis at last discovered Commander Bernard's house, where he found only Madame Barbançon at home.
Olivier had left Paris several days before in company with his master mason, and the veteran had just gone out for his daily walk.
The housekeeper on opening the door was so unpleasantly impressed by the visitor's deformity, that, instead of inviting him in, she remained standing upon the threshold, thus barring M. de Maillefort's passage.
That gentleman, noting the unfavourable impression he was making upon the housekeeper, bowed very politely, and said:
"Have I the honour of speaking to Madame Barbançon?"
"Yes, monsieur; and what do you want of Madame Barbançon?"
"I am desirous that you should grant me the honour of a few minutes' conversation."
"And why, monsieur?" demanded the housekeeper, eyeing the stranger distrustfully.
"I wish to confer with you, madame, on a very important matter."
"But I do not even know you."