But they had reached the inn, and a stout maid-servant in a night-cap was at the door with a lantern, to take Newman's traveling-bag from the porter who trudged behind him.

Valentin was lodged on the ground-floor at the back of the house, and Newman's companion went along a stone-faced passage and softly opened a door.

Then he beckoned to Newman, who advanced and looked into the room, which was lighted by a single shaded candle.
Beside the fire sat M.de Grosjoyaux asleep in his dressing-gown--a little plump, fair man whom Newman had seen several times in Valentin's company.

On the bed lay Valentin, pale and still, with his eyes closed--a figure very shocking to Newman, who had seen it hitherto awake to its finger tips.

M.de Grosjoyaux's colleague pointed to an open door beyond, and whispered that the doctor was within, keeping guard.