"I have with me two wood rangers, from whom the desert has no secrets."
"You can trust in them?"
"As in myself."
"Bravo! I feel a presentiment that we shall succeed."
"Heaven grant it! For my part, I will do all to deserve it."
The stranger took his hat.
"Ah, ah! I have been here a long time, and forget that people may be waiting for me at the office. I must leave you, my dear count."
"Already?"
"Needs must. Shall I see you this evening?"
"I cannot promise. You know that I am not my own master either, especially at this moment."