"Remain here, fasten the door inside, and open it to nobody unless you hear three taps like this;" and he tapped thrice--two taps close together and pretty hard, the other after an interval, and lighter.
"That is well," said Mme.Bonacieux.

"Now, in my turn, let me give you my instructions." "I am all attention." "Present yourself at the wicket of the Louvre, on the side of the Rue de l'Echelle, and ask for Germain." "Well, and then ?" "He will ask you what you want, and you will answer by these two words, 'Tours' and 'Bruxelles.' He will at once put himself at your orders." "And what shall I command him ?" "To go and fetch Monsieur Laporte, the queen's VALET DE CHAMBRE." "And when he shall have informed him, and Monsieur Laporte is come ?" "You will send him to me." "That is well; but where and how shall I see you again ?" "Do you wish to see me again ?" "Certainly." "Well, let that care be mine, and be at ease." "I depend upon your word." "You may." D'Artagnan bowed to Mme.Bonacieux, darting at her the most loving glance that he could possibly concentrate upon her charming little person; and while he descended the stairs, he heard the door closed and double-locked.

In two bounds he was at the Louvre; as he entered the wicket of L'Echelle, ten o'clock struck.

All the events we have described had taken place within a half hour.
Everything fell out as Mme.Bonacieux prophesied.

On hearing the password, Germain bowed.