In the streets, they passed a few vegetable-carts. Men carrying long poles were turning out the street-lamps.
There were stars in the sky. A cool breeze was wafted through the air.
Lupin sang aloud:
The Place de la Concorde, the Louvre. . . . In the distance, the dark bulk of Notre Dame. . . .
He turned round and half opened the door:
"Having a good time, mates? So am I, thank you. It's a grand night for a drive and the air's delicious! . . ."
They were now bumping over the ill-paved quays. And soon they arrived at the Palais de Justice and the door of the detective-office.
"Wait here," said Lupin to the two drivers, "and be sure you look after your seven fares."
He crossed the outer yard and went down the passage on the right leading to the rooms of the central office. He found the night inspectors on duty.
"A bag, gentlemen," he said, as he entered, "a fine bag too. Is M. Weber here? I am the new commissary of police for Auteuil."