I knew what he meant, and I was satisfied.
Next morning Le Duc told me he had spent the previous day in learning the Jew’s abode and habits, without asking anybody any questions.
“To-day I will not let him go out of my sight. I shall find out at what hour he returns home, and to-morrow you shall know the results.”
“Be discreet,” said I, “and don’t let anybody into your plans.”
“Not I!”
Next day, he told me that if the Jew came home at the same time and by the same way as before, he would have a thrashing before he got to bed.
“Whom have you chosen for this expedition?”
“Myself. These affairs ought to be kept secret, and a secret oughtn’t to be known to more than two people. I am sure that everything will turn out well, but when you are satisfied that the ass’s hide has been well tanned, will there be anything to be picked up?”
“Twenty-five sequins.”
“That will do nicely. When I have done the trick I shall put on my great coat again and return by the back door. If necessary Costa himself will be able to swear that I did not leave the house, and that therefore I cannot have committed the assault. However, I shall put my pistols in my pocket in case of accidents, and if anybody tries to arrest me I shall know how to defend myself.”