"No doubt. I stopped only a short while, at a small house at the edge of the town. I was in some haste."
"Then you will be starting early to-morrow?"
"Yes, Monsieur."
I resolved to be watchful and start at the same time. But lest he should have other company, or something should interfere, I decided not to lose the present opportunity. So I began forthwith:
"I have met a gentleman who comes, I think, from Montoire, or at least is acquainted there,—a Monsieur de Merri, of about my own age."
The young fellow looked at me with a sudden sharpness of curiosity, which took me back: but I did not change countenance, and he had repossessed himself by the time he replied:
"There is a Monsieur de Merri, who is about as old as you, but he does not live at Montoire. He sometimes comes there."
Here was comfort, at least: I should not find myself among the dead man's relations, seeking vengeance.
"No doubt he has friends there?" I ventured.
"No doubt, Monsieur," answered the young man, merely out of politeness, and looking vague.