At that moment, the bell rang. With a brusque movement, Lupin seized Mon. Gerbois, and said to him, in an imperious tone:
“Do not move! Remember your daughter, and be prudent—otherwise— As to you, Monsieur Detinan, I have your promise.”
Mon. Gerbois was rooted to the spot. The lawyer did not stir. Without the least sign of haste, Lupin picked up his hat and brushed the dust from off it with his sleeve.
“My dear Monsieur Detinan, if I can ever be of service to you.... My best wishes, Mademoiselle Suzanne, and my kind regards to Monsieur Philippe.”
He drew a heavy gold watch from his pocket.
“Monsieur Gerbois, it is now forty-two minutes past three. At forty-six minutes past three, I give you permission to leave this room. Not one minute sooner than forty-six minutes past three.”
“But they will force an entrance,” suggested Mon. Detinan.
“You forget the law, my dear monsieur! Ganimard would never venture to violate the privacy of a French citizen. But, pardon me, time flies, and you are all slightly nervous.”
He placed his watch on the table, opened the door of the room and addressing the blonde lady he said:
“Are you ready my dear?”