"At least, messieurs, conceal your watch chains, I entreat you, and don’t say that you have money about you; opportunity makes the thief."
Alfred knocked at a low, ill-jointed door, above which was a round hole that answered the purpose of a window. It was some time before there was any reply; at last a hoarse, but loud voice was heard, asking with a sort of drawl:
"Well! who’s there?"
"Say nobody," cried Robineau, whom the tone of the voice did not reassure.
"Three travellers who have gone astray in the mountains," said Alfred.
"Three beggars who have had no supper," added Robineau.
"If you don’t keep quiet I’ll push you to the bottom of this hill," said Alfred testily.
As there was no reply from the hovel, Edouard stepped forward and said:
"Admit us, good people; we will pay you handsomely for your trouble and for the guide you give us."
"That is to say, we will pray for you," added Robineau, "for we have forgotten to bring our purses."