“My name is Poussin,” replied the fellow. “I have come to claim the reward. Felix Shamarin is in hiding at the house of one Lyapin, a locksmith, who dwells on the bank of the Fontana Canal, near the Ostroff bridge. He intends to escape before the break of another day, so you must lose no time if you wish to take him.”
Sandoff’s eyes sparkled.
“Are you sure this information is correct?” he asked.
“You can rely on it,” said Poussin. “I am in a position to know. But I trust that your honor will keep my share in the matter a secret,” he continued imploringly. “If it were known, my life would not be worth a kopec.”
“Have no fear,” said Sandoff. “If you are betrayed it will be your own doing. As for the reward, you will get it in good time, provided your information proves to be correct.”
He was interrupted by a sudden rap on the door, and when he walked over and opened it slightly he saw the face of his man Ivan, whose duty it was to stand guard in the hall.
“Beg pardon, your honor,” said the servant, “but a lady is outside demanding to see you. I told her that you were busy, but she would take no denial. She insists on speaking with you, and refuses to go away.”
“What does she look like?” asked Sandoff, wrinkling his brow. “Has she ever been here before?”
“Not to my knowledge,” replied Ivan. “Her face is covered with a thick veil, but she appears to be young.”
Sandoff hesitated for an instant. The wrinkles deepened on his forehead, and his hands trembled slightly as they rested on each side of the doorway.