The front-door bell rang.
“Wait, wait. Let me think,” said Lupin hoarsely; and he strove to adjust his jostling ideas, to meet with a fresh plan this fresh disaster.
He stood listening with all his ears. There were footsteps on the stairs, and the door opened. Dieusy stood on the threshold.
“Who is it?” said Guerchard.
“I accept—I accept everything,” cried Lupin in a frantic tone.
“It’s a tradesman; am I to detain him?” said Dieusy. “You told me to let you know who came and take instructions.”
“A tradesman? Then I refuse!” cried Lupin, in an ecstasy of relief.
“No, you needn’t keep him,” said Guerchard, to Dieusy.
Dieusy went out and shut the door.
“You refuse?” said Guerchard.