For years his intention had been to leave his entire fortune to his brother-in-law.

He, therefore, made a rough draft of his will in that sense, with a pen at first rather unsteady, then quite firm.

His will completed, he had courage enough to write two letters, addressed the one to that brother-in-law, the other to his sister.

When he had finished his work the hands of the clock pointed to ten minutes of three.
"Still seventeen hours and a half to wait," said he, "but I think I have conquered my nerves.

A short walk, too, will benefit me." So he decided to go on foot to the rendezvous named by Montfanon.