"Whereabout is that in the wall?"
"Next to the corner, Monsieur, which is formed by the wall in which the windows are set—it is a dark corner, nearly opposite the door by which you enter."
"That's a door," said Monsieur Varbarriere, rising deliberately as if he were about to walk through it.
"I think Monsieur conjectures sagely."
"What more did you see, Jacques?" demanded Monsieur Varbarriere, resuming his seat quietly.
"Nothing, Monsieur; for my good friend returned just then, and occupied my attention otherwise."
"You did not give him a hint of your discovery?"
"Not a word, sir."
"Jacques, you must see that room again, quietly. You are very much interested, you know, in those books of travel. When you have a minute there to yourself again, you will take down in turn every volume at each side of that false bookcase, and search closely for hinge or bolt—there must be something of the kind—or keyhole—do you see? Rely upon me, I will not fail to consider the service handsomely. Manage that, if possible, to-day."
"I will do all my possible, Monsieur."