The two men went forward as scouts to see if all were quiet.

Satisfied on that point, they made a sign to Roland to advance.
Roland came, dismounted, found the door of the lodge open, and entered.
Michel took the horse to the stable and carried the deer to the kitchen; for Michel belonged to that honorable class of poachers, who kill game for the pleasure of killing, and not for the selfish interest of sale.
There was no need for precaution, either for horse or deer; for Amelie took no more notice of what went on in the stable than of what they served her to eat.
During this time Jacques lighted the fire.

When Michel returned he brought the remains of a leg of mutton and some eggs for an omelet.
Jacques made up a bed in the office.
Roland warmed himself and ate his supper without saying a word.

The two men looked at each other with an astonishment that was not devoid of a certain degree of anxiety.

A rumor of the expedition to Seillon had got about, and it was whispered that Roland had led it.