Apparently, he had returned for another similar expedition.
When Roland had finished his supper he looked up and saw Michel.
"Ah! so there you are ?" he exclaimed.
"I am waiting for Monsieur's orders." "Here they are; listen carefully." "I'm all ears." "It's a question of life or death; of more than that, of my honor." "Speak, Monsieur Roland." Roland pulled out his watch.
"It is now five o'clock.

When the inn of the Belle-Alliance opens, be there, as if you were just sauntering by; then stop a minute to chat with whoever opens it." "That will probably be Pierre." "Pierre or another; find out from him who the traveller is who arrived last night on a pacing horse.

You know what pacing is, don't you ?" "The deuce! You mean a horse that goes like a bear, both feet forward at the same time." "Bravo! You can also find out whether the traveller is leaving this morning, or whether he proposes to spend the day at the hotel, can't you ?" "Of course I can find that out." "Well, when you have found out all that, come and tell me; but remember, not a word about my being here.

If any one asks about me, say that they had a letter from me yesterday, and that I was in Paris with the First Consul." "That's understood." Michel departed.

Roland went to bed and to sleep, leaving Jacques to guard the building.
When Roland awoke Michel had returned.