It was absurd on the face of it. His sergents de ville knew their duty too well to allow it; but still he interrogated Mademoiselle, and put down the answers she gave to his various questions in his note book. All the circumstances of the case should be looked into and investigated, although they certainly seemed incredible. It struck the Chef, however, that Mademoiselle’s narrative was too clear and succinct to be made up: besides, a few initiatory inquiries would readily reveal whether her premises were true or false.
The Chef touched a hand-bell on his table, and a subordinate officer quickly answered the summons. To him some directions were given, in a low earnest voice, so low that Miss Kingscott could not catch their purport: the man then withdrew.
“Attendez un moment, Mademoiselle, il reviendra bientôt,” said the Chef, in an apologetic tone.
Miss Kingscott had to wait nearly half-an-hour until the messenger came back.
More whispering with the Chef, and comparing of note books; the news was evidently important, for the latter looked grave and puzzled; but as soon as the underling withdrew, he again addressed the governess.
“I find you have told me the truth about yourself,” he commenced.
“Your politeness is great to have doubted my word: I thought all Frenchmen were renowned for their gallantry!” interposed the lady.
“Circumstances must plead my excuse, Mademoiselle,” continued the Chef, making an elaborately polite bow; “the law must be assured before it can act. I find that you came to Havre yesterday, that about mid-day you went to the Hotel du Coté d’Or, secured a room, and left your luggage. The propriétaire mentions that you have stopped there before, and gives you a good character.”
“A thousand thanks,” said Miss Kingscott, with a sneer.
“Mademoiselle will understand that it is my duty to make these enquiries. Allons! That, after remaining a short time at the Hotel du Côte d’Or,” continued the Chef, calmly, as if reading out from an affidavit, “you went out, leaving word that you would return again to dinner, but you did not go back, and Monsieur le propriétaire was plunged into the deepest uneasiness at your non-appearance: I believe I am so far correct.”