"I know him, Lieutenant,—pardon—Monsieur Henri—a—letter-box—a go-between."
"We must know exactly the nature of the relations between Corporal V. and the late Captain Brocq."
These last words particularly interested Vagualame: he drew nearer still to de Loubersac, tapping him on the knee.
"Tell me, has anything new come to light in that affair?"
Henri de Loubersac moved away, and looked the old accordion player up and down.
"Do not meddle with what does not concern you."
"Good! Good! That's all right!" The old fellow pretended to be confused, nevertheless a gleam of joy shone beneath his eyelids.
There was a moment's silence. Henri de Loubersac was gnawing his moustache. Vagualame, who was stealthily watching him, said to himself:
"As for you, my fine fellow, I am waiting for you! You have a fine big morsel for me! I see what you are driving at!"...
True enough! Suddenly, between him and the lieutenant there was an exchange of hurried words in a low tone.