"Why, when the others do. Usually about eight, unless they're working late; then it's as late as ten, sometimes."
"Here is the letter, madame, with the ticket; will you be kind enough to hand it to mademoiselle in person?"
"Yes, monsieur, I understand. You see, I'm sure it won't be long before she comes in or goes out, and she always speaks to me when she passes."
"I rely upon you, then, madame."
The colossus cut several capers by way of courtesies; I left her standing on one leg, and went my way. I had found that the girl had not deceived me in what she told me; that was something. I did not suppose that I was dealing with a Jeanne d'Arc, but I did not care to fall into the other extreme. I determined to go to the Gymnase, and to have a little note in my pocket, appointing a meeting, which I would slip into Mademoiselle Rosette's hand if I was unable to talk freely with her.
I was on my way home, when I heard my name called. I turned and recognized Monsieur Rouffignard, the stout, chubby-faced party, who also was one of the dinner party at Deffieux's.
"Parbleu!" I said, as we shook hands; "this is my day for meetings!"
"Bonjour, Monsieur Rochebrune! have you seen our friend Dupréval lately?"
"Not for a long while! I have not done right; but I have been told that since Dupréval was married he has entirely renounced pleasure and gives all his attention to business; so that I have been afraid of disturbing him."
"It is true, he has become a regular bear; he thinks of nothing but making money. For my part, I make it, but I spend it too!"