"Let us see about it," said Alfred; "there are enough of us, we don’t need weapons. There can’t be a band of brigands in your alcove!"
And Alfred and Edouard went into the room, followed by the husband and wife, the marquis and the servants. When they reached the bed, the young men jerked the curtains aside and disclosed to view Jeannette snoring peacefully, with outstretched legs.
"It’s Jeannette!" exclaimed Alfred and Edouard, laughing heartily.
"It’s Jeannette!" echoed the others.
"What on earth is this girl doing in your bed, monsieur?" said Cornélie, gazing at Robineau in amazement.
"What, indeed!" said Monsieur de la Pincerie; "this maid-servant asleep in your bed—what does it mean, son-in-law? Corbleu! this has a very evil look——"
"Father-in-law, I swear that I have no idea what it means; I am innocence itself. Wake Jeannette; she must explain to us why she is here."
They shook the stout damsel, who yawned, stretched her arms, rubbed her eyes, and gazed about with a surprised expression, crying:
"Mon Dieu! have I been having a nap?"
"How do you happen to be in this bed?" demanded Cornélie, with a glance at Jeannette that was by no means amiable.