"Now, if you are not afraid of a little dampness, I will show you something."
Irène looked at Gudel in amazement.
"Very good, but first about Fanfar?"
"I assure you, dear lady, that he is safe. Now, Bobichel, go; see and hear all you can, and if you find out anything new, come to me at once."
"All right, master," and with a double somersault Bobichel vanished.
Gudel lighted a lantern, and then said to Irène that he was ready. They went out into a corridor, and Gudel, taking a key from his pocket, opened a small door which showed stone steps going down.
"Be careful," said Iron Jaws, "for the steps are very slippery."
He held the lantern high and guided her steps. It was like a gnome guiding a fairy into some mine of wealth. But it was not toward any treasure that Gudel conducted Irène. He opened another door after pushing several bolts.
"Up with you!" he cried, "you have company!"
Notwithstanding all her courage, Irène started back.