When therefore twilight was commencing to replace the glare of day, and Simon was certain of not meeting the officers of the law, he threw his cloak around his shoulders, turned with a light step and joyous heart the corner of the street, and took the direction to the square of Meir.
He had gone but a short distance, when he met Messire John Van Schoonhoven.
A smile lighted up Turchi's countenance.

He was delighted to be accidentally brought into the bailiff's company, as he would thus learn the result of the researches already made.
After a polite salutation, Messire Van Schoonhoven said: "I am happy to meet you.

I was on my way to your house." "To my house ?" said Turchi.

"Have you news of my friend ?" "No, signor; I wish to see you concerning an affair which, although not serious, necessitates a conversation with you.

I would have spoken to you on this subject this evening when at Mr.Van de Werve's, but the place was inappropriate to such discussions." "Return then with me," stammered Turchi, with ill-disguised anxiety.
"Where were you going, signor ?" said the bailiff.
"I was going to take a walk along the Scheldt, in order to seek some diversion to the grief I feel for the disappearance of the unfortunate Geronimo." "What I have to say, signor, need not interfere with your walk.