"We are alone, master," he said timidly.
"Then speak; have you discovered Pierre Labarre's residence?"
"Yes, master."
"But you have not gone to see him yet?"
"No, I kept within your orders."
"You were right. I must daze the old scoundrel through my sudden appearance; I hope to get the secret from him."
"Is everything better now, master?" asked Simon, after a pause.
"Better? What are you thinking of?" exclaimed the marquis, angrily. "Every one has conspired against me, and ruin is near at hand."
"But the protection of his majesty—"