"Yes, an idea that will bring us in a nice sum of money."
"Then I am satisfied. If the little one only does not cause us any embarrassment."
"No fear of that. In the first place she should sleep."
The virago poured a few drops of a watery liquid in a spoon and approached Louison. The latter had her lips parted, but her teeth were tightly drawn together. Robeckal carefully put the blade of his knife between them, and Rolla poured the liquid down Louison's throat.
"Now come downstairs with me," she said, turning to Robeckal, "and if your vicomte comes you will praise me."
The worthy pair now left Louison, who was sleeping; and after Rolla had tightly locked the door and put the key in her pocket, they both strode to the basement. Here they entered a small, dirty room, and Rolla had just filled two glasses with rum when a carriage stopped in front of the door.
"Here they are," said Robeckal, hastily emptying his glass and going to the street door, from whence came the sound of loud knocks.
Shortly afterward he returned in company with Talizac and Velletri. The vicomte's face was flushed with the wine he had been drinking; spots of blood were on his clothes, and his walk was uneven and unsteady. Velletri, on the other hand, showed not a trace of excitement, and his dress was neat and select.
"A glass of water!" commanded the vicomte, in a rough voice, turning to Rolla.
The fat woman looked angrily at him, and while she brought the water she muttered to herself: