'Very well,' said Hortense; 'will you do it?'
He continued to gaze. She met his eyes like a woman who has nothing more to conceal.
'State your case.'
'Do you know a vessel named the Armorique, a steamer?'
'Yes; it runs from Southampton.'
'It will arrive to-morrow morning early. Will it be able to cross the bar?'
'No; not till noon.'
'I thought so. I expect a person by it—a man.'
Madame Bernier appeared unable to continue, as if her voice had given way.
'Well, well?' said her companion.