“That, then,” said Fochard, rising as a sign that the interview was at an end, “is all that I can do for you, now. You will pardon me, I know; but I have most important matters that claim my attention.”
“Then we will not detain you,” said Ethan.
As he led them out of the room, and toward the street door, Fochard continued:
“The division of the reward is understood, then, to be as I desired. Half to me and half to Monsieur Danvers to be shared among our respective agents as we see fit.”
“Monsieur Danvers will be perfectly satisfied with that arrangement, I have no doubt,” said Ethan.
“Tell him to consider the matter and send me word by messenger before he leaves Paris. I like these little matters settled at the beginning. And now, gentlemen, I will bid you good-night.”
They then found themselves shaking hands with the secret agent upon his door-step; a moment later the door had closed and they were standing upon the frozen walk, gazing at each other in astonishment.
CHAPTER X
THE CRUISE OF THE RANGER
It was a good two hours later when Ethan and the Irish dragoon finally discovered their lodgings. Captain Jones was busy over some papers in his room when Ethan knocked upon his door.
“Come in,” said the sailor. “I had just about finished.” He sealed up some documents, and then went on, “Your search was longer than you intended, was it not? and, I suppose, without much success.”