"And you are bound—whither?"
"To Bombay."
"Very well, sir. You are aware, perhaps, that this formality is unnecessary, even useless. We only require to see the passport."
"I know that," replied Fogg; "but I want you to testify to my presence at Suez."
"Very well, sir, so be it," replied the Consul, who thereupon attested the passport. Mr. Fogg paid the fee, and bowing formally, departed, followed by his servant.
"Well, what do you think, sir?" said the detective.
"I think he looks a perfectly honest man," replied the Consul.
"That may be," said Fix; "but that is not the point. Do you not perceive that this cool gentleman answers in every particular to the description of the thief sent out?"
"I grant you that; but you know all descriptions—"
"I will settle the business," replied Fix. "It strikes me that the servant is more get-at-able than the master. Besides, he is a Frenchman, and cannot help chattering. I will return soon, sir." As he finished speaking, the detective left the Consul's office in search of Passe-partout.