There followed his touch a crackling sound, as of paper.

D'Herouville paled.

On the contrary, the vicomte smiled.
"Messieurs," said Breton, "your eyes deceived you.

The horizon is clear.

But take care, or you will have monsieur's clothes from the hooks." "Tell your master," said the vicomte, "that we shall pay him a visit later, when he wakes." He opened the door, and followed D'Herouville out.
Once outside the two men gazed into each other's eyes.