CHAPTER I.
THE MAN IN THE CLOAK.
A man enveloped in a handsome grey cloak groped through a dark alley which led into the fashionable district of the Rue de Bethisy.

From time to time he paused, with a hand to his ear, as if listening.
Satisfied that the alley was deserted save for his own presence, he would proceed, hugging the walls.

The cobbles were icy, and scarce a moment passed in which he did not have to struggle to maintain his balance.

The door of a low tavern opened suddenly, sending a golden shaft of light across the glistening pavement and casting a brilliant patch on the opposite wall.

With the light came sounds of laughter and quarreling and ringing glasses.