"Mademoiselle, the most prominent members of my profession have little knowledge of men's thoughts. Of the working of Monsieur Bruslart's mind I know nothing; I only know that he has left Paris without sending money."
"And the consequence to me?" asked Jeanne.
"That is what pains me," Legrand answered. "This house is secure only on certain conditions, a peculiar arrangement in which I have personally little influence. Some of my guests are ungracious enough to disbelieve this. When the fees remain unpaid I have no choice in the matter. My guest is removed elsewhere."
Jeanne showed not a trace of nervousness or alarm. The whirl of thoughts and doubts in her brain caused the lines in her face to harden a little, but there was no quiver in her eyes, no tremble in her voice.
"Is the money paid in advance?" she asked.
"Always, mademoiselle; that is one of the conditions."
"Then it is for the coming week that the money is due?"
"That is so."
"I do not know, Dr. Legrand, whether you are fully aware of Monsieur Bruslart's position and my own?"
"I think so, mademoiselle. You were, I believe, to be man and wife."