Straightway I set out, bidding him attend me, and, muffled in my cloak, I proceeded at a brisk pace to the Rue des Fosses St.Germain, where the lieutenant's auberge was situated.
I left Michelot in the common-room, and, preceded by the plump little woman who owned the house, I ascended to Montresor's chamber.

I found the young soldier at table, and, fortunately, alone.

He rose as I entered, and as the hostess, retreating, closed the door, I doffed my hat, and letting fall my cloak revealed myself.

His lips parted, and I heard the hiss of an indrawn breath as his astonished eyes fell upon my countenance.

My laugh dispelled his doubts that I might be other than flesh and blood--yet not his doubts touching my identity.