"I—that is—well, the vicomte did leave the house, but he returned within an hour."
"Then he must be in the house?" they all repeated.
"I do not know. He has not left it."
"How do you know?" asked Coucou. "The vicomte might have gone out by way of the garden."
"That is not possible," declared the footman. "I locked the gate myself yesterday while the vicomte was in his study."
"We must search every nook and corner," said Gontram.
"We shall do so," said Fanfaro. "Anselmo can remain under Madame Caraman's care, while Coucou can look in the garden and yard, and we in the house."
Coucou disappeared, but soon returned, accompanied by Bobichel.
"I am glad you've come, Bobichel," exclaimed Fanfaro. "We have some fine detective work to do here, and that was always your hobby."