2, and make as little noise as possible, to avoid annoying my neighbors.

And, at the same time, send me up pen and ink, and some paper.

I have letters to write." Montbar's orders were promptly executed, and he himself followed the waiter to see that Roland was not disturbed by his proximity.
The chamber was just what the landlord had said.

Not a movement could be made, not a word uttered in the next room, that was not heard.
Consequently Montbar distinctly heard the waiter announce Colonel Saint-Maurice, then the resounding steps of the latter in the corridor, and the exclamations of the two friends, delighted to meet again.
On the other hand, Roland, who had been for a moment disturbed by the noise in the adjoining room, forgot it as soon as it had ceased, and there was no danger of its being renewed.

Montbar, left alone, seated himself at the table, on which were paper, pen and ink, and remained perfectly motionless.
The two officers had known each other in Italy, where Roland was under the command of Saint-Maurice, the latter being then a captain and Roland a lieutenant.