“How long have you known Siméon Diodokis?”
“It’s the first time we saw him. But we knew that he was in M. Essarès’ service.”
“Oh, so you’ve worked for M. Essarès?”
“Yes, often. . . . Same job and same trip.”
“He called you by means of a signal, didn’t he?”
“Yes, he used to light an old factory-chimney.”
“Was it always bags?”
“Yes. We didn’t know what was inside. He was a good payer.”
Patrice asked no more questions. He hurriedly got into his boat, pulled back to shore and found Don Luis seated with a comfortable supper in front of him.
“Quick!” he said. “The cargo is on board a steamer, the Chamois. We can catch her up between Rouen and Le Hâvre.”