Claudine had in her possession several letters which had been written to her a long time ago, some by the count, some by Madame Gerdy, letters both imprudent and explicit.

They will be found, no doubt, and their evidence will be decisive.

I have held these letters in my hands, I have read them; Claudine particularly wished me to keep them, why did I not do so ?" No! there was no hope on that side, and old Tabaret knew so better than any one.

It was these very letters, no doubt, that the assassin of La Jonchere wanted.

He had found them and had burnt them with the other papers, in the little stove.