"A messenger, madame."
"Is he still here?"
"Yes, madame, he absolutely insists on having an answer."
"Let him come in."
The messenger was ushered into the presence of the ladies. Thélénie examined him for some seconds, then asked him:
"Who gave you this letter?"
"Monsieur Chamoureau, madame."
"You know him, then?"
"Yes, madame, he often employs me. He keeps a real estate office; I know him well."
"Was he alone when he handed you this letter?"