THE COUSIN FROM BERLIN The studio of Julio Desnoyers was on the top floor, both the stairway and the elevator stopping before his door.

The two tiny apartments at the back were lighted by an interior court, their only means of communication being the service stairway which went on up to the garrets.
While his comrade was away, Argensola had made the acquaintance of those in the neighboring lodgings.

The largest of the apartments was empty during the day, its occupants not returning till after they had taken their evening meal in a restaurant.

As both husband and wife were employed outside, they could not remain at home except on holidays.
The man, vigorous and of a martial aspect, was superintendent in a big department store.

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