Therefore he returned it.
“What you say is just, here is the letter. I will trust you to use it not only for the protection of M. de Rochefort, but in my interests if necessary. That is to say, of course, the interest of the State.”
“Thank you, monsieur,” replied the other, rising from his chair. “And now I must find M. de Rochefort if possible—though I have very little hope of doing so before to-night.”
CHAPTER IX
THE GATHERING STORM
LAVENNE, when he left the Hôtel de Sartines, made straight for the Rue St. Dominic. He wanted to find Rochefort and he fancied that Javotte might know of the Count’s whereabouts.
He stopped at the door of the house where Camille Fontrailles’ apartments were, rang and was admitted by the concierge.
Scarcely had he made the inquiry as to whether Mademoiselle Javotte were at home when Javotte herself appeared descending the stairs and ready dressed for the street.
“Why, monsieur,” said Javotte, “it is strange that you have called at this moment, for in a very short time you would not have found me. I am leaving.”