"Well, we can't talk here," observed the Buffer. "There's a snug room up-stairs devoted to them that's got private business: and I'll show you the way."
The Buffer left the parlour, followed by Lafleur, whom he conducted to a private apartment on the first floor. A bottle of wine was ordered; and when the waiter had withdrawn, the Buffer made a sign for his companion to explain the object of the interview.
"You know very well that I am in the service of Mr. Greenwood, the Member of Parliament?" began Lafleur.
"Yes—me and two pals once did a little job for him on the Richmond road," answered the Buffer.
"You mean the affair of the robbery of Count Alteroni?" said Lafleur.
"Well—I do, since you know it. Does your master tell you all his secrets?" demanded the Buffer.
"No—no," was the reply; and the Frenchman gave a sly laugh. "But he can't very well prevent me listening at the door of his room, when he's engaged with people on particular business. I know enough to ruin him for ever."
"So much the better for you. There's nothing like being deep in one's master's secrets: it gives you a hold on him."
"Let us talk of the present business," said Lafleur. "Are you the man to do a small robbery on the Dover road, as skilfully as you helped to do it on the Richmond road?"
"I'm the man to do any thing for fair reglars," answered the Buffer. "Go on."