"I am disposed to trust you," she went on, "but in order to do so fully I should wish to see a letter from the friend you speak of."
"It is dangerous to carry such a writing," he replied significantly.
"True, but you can mention names."
"I can, and will,—names your brother will know well. The Baron von Valdenmeer, for instance. Besides, if I were your enemy I need not come thus secretly. Your enemies can use open means."
"I said"—Elise hesitated—"I am disposed to believe you are what you claim to be, but I can do nothing without the consent of my brother."
"Good! will you obtain his consent?"
"I will try."
"Good again. You will succeed. Talk with him and get his consent to leave here. And as soon as possible I will make all the arrangements for the journey so that we may leave in a week or at the latest a fortnight. Then if you have not persuaded your brother that it is for his interest to go with me, I will try and add my arguments to yours."
"I trust you will find us ready," said Elise; "but in the mean time shall you remain here?"
"No, I must go to Paris," was the Prussian's answer. "If you should have occasion to communicate with me, a word sent to Hector Gaillard, 15 Rue des Mathurins, will reach me. But do not send any word unless it is of the greatest importance, and then employ a messenger whom you can trust."