"Certainly; his reverence was unfortunately obliged to go on a journey, but there is a letter here for Madame Danglars, if you are the lady."
"I am Madame Danglars," said the lady, quickly.
The old woman handed her a letter, and invited her to make herself at home. Upon which she left.
As soon as the lady found herself alone, she hastily tore open the letter. It contained a sealed packet, and these lines:
"Madame—I am, unfortunately, not able to receive you personally. A journey obliges me to be disrespectful. Nevertheless I hope to see you to-morrow, and beg you to make yourself comfortable in my house. All your conditions have been fulfilled. I inclose a note addressed to the port inspector at Toulon and hope everything will turn out as you desire.
"Jean Balais, Curate of Beaussuet."
The lady put the letter and the note in her pocket, and as the old lady entered with a cup of steaming bouillon, she hesitatingly said:
"Did the priest tell you I was going to stay here over night?"
"Yes, madame! Your room is ready, and I hope you will sleep soundly," replied the woman, cordially.
"The house is safe?" asked Madame Danglars, looking anxiously about.