Their approach was halted by a challenge from one of the guards.
Upon discovering their identity, thanks to the good offices of Francois as interpreter, the policeman allowed them to proceed.
"The crowd has disappeared, I see," Ned said to the guard.
"Yes, they soon satisfied their curiosity and returned to their homes," was the reply. "After all, an aeroplane is no longer wonderful."
"Then you haven't been bothered since we left?" ventured Ned. "I suppose it got sort of lonely out here in the street."
"No one has been here, Monsieur, except the servants you sent."
"The servants we sent?" questioned Ned wonderingly. "We sent no one! I don't quite understand you. What do you mean?"
"Your servant," insisted the man. "The man you sent to get the papers from your strong box. He has left the place but a few minutes."
Ned turned a puzzled look to his chums now grouped about.