Louison had allowed Robeckal to finish. The man displeased her, but his offer was worth considering. Twenty francs! For the young girl the sum was a small fortune, and her heart ceased to beat when she thought of the many little comforts she could provide her protégée with it.
"Did not Monsieur Aube give you a letter for me?" she asked, still hesitating.
"No, mademoiselle. Do you mistrust me?"
"I did not say that, but I cannot decide so hastily. I will be at the Golden Calf in a little while, and give the gentleman my answer."
"Mademoiselle, tell me at once that you don't care to go, and I will get the man without arms, who will do just as well. He won't refuse, I warrant you."
With these words, Robeckal took out a card and pointed to two addresses thereon. The first was Louison's address, the second that of a street-singer who was well known to the young girl. Louison no longer doubted.
"I shall come," she said firmly; "when shall I make my appearance?"
"At eight o'clock."
"And when will I be done?"