Mechanically he responded, though he had a smile for Lieutenant Servin when he murmured, with a touch of irony:
"The judgment made no mention, Monsieur Fandor, of the clothes—the borrowed clothes—you are wearing: but it seems to be established that they do not belong to you. Be kind enough, then, to return them to the authorities as soon as possible! Otherwise we shall be obliged to summon you afresh for appropriation of military garments!"
The lieutenant had had his little joke, and departed laughing.
The crowd melted away. Only a few of Fandor's colleagues remained. To them he talked more freely of his troubles and trials. Then Juve arrived on the scene again. He was no longer the impassive listener of the trial: he was friend Juve, beaming and joyous.
He embraced his dear Fandor effusively, murmuring:
"Now, old Fandor, this is not the moment to linger! We must be off instanter. I shall see you to your flat, where you can change into clothes of your own; for this evening we have our work cut out for us!"
"This evening?" Fandor's curiosity was aroused.
Juve, as they went off together, became mysterious.
"Ah! you will understand presently!"