"It is very strange," said Fanfar, thoughtfully. "And now, my friends," he added, turning to Coucon and Madame, "you may leave me here with Monsieur Goutran."
"And with me?" added Bobichel.
"You can stay, if you will. I may need you."
"But, Monsieur Fanfar," said poor Madame, "I think we, too, are good for something. You ought not to send us away."
The poor woman was greatly distressed.
"Oh! I have something for you to do. Examine the garden carefully, and if you see the smallest thing that is unusual, come to me instantly."
"There won't be a corner in which I shall not put my nose, be sure of that!" cried Coucon.
"Oh! if the Count were only here!" sighed Madame.
Fanfar was alone with Bobichel and Goutran.
"Have you anything to suggest?" he said, suddenly turning to Goutran. "Do you know of any secret egress from this hôtel?"