"Here—this black square—is Mr. Stapleton's house. From there to the arch is a matter of some six hundred yards."
"About that, I should say. What of it?"
"Wait. The black-bearded fellow—the kidnapper—who visited Mr. Stapleton last night, and escaped by the ruse of being arrested by one of his confederates, will arrive at Mr. Stapleton's house at eight o'clock tonight."
"Mon Dieu! If that is so, we have him!"
"Not so fast. We shall not interfere with him—then."
"But, Monsieur, would you let this fellow escape? It is my duty to arrest him, as soon as he puts in an appearance."
"You are mistaken, Vernet. Your duty is to do as I instruct you. Monsieur Lefevre has placed you under my orders for the day."
Vernet laughed. "That is so," he said. "What do you wish me to do?"
"The man will come to Mr. Stapleton's house at eight o'clock, and will be given a large sum of money. He has agreed, if he is not interfered with, to have the address where the boy may be found telephoned to Mr. Stapleton within half an hour."
"Ah! Then we shall follow, and get him after he has telephoned."