With this clue and the position of the window to guide me, I fixed on a door on the right of this passage, and scarcely four paces from the head of the stairs.

Before I made any sign, however, I knelt down and ascertained that there was a light in the room, and also that the key was not in the lock.
So far satisfied, I scratched on the door with my finger-nails, at first softly, then with greater force, and presently I heard someone in the room rise.

I felt sure that the person whoever it was had taken the alarm and was listening, and putting my lips to the keyhole I whispered mademoiselle's name.
A footstep crossed the room sharply, and I heard muttering just within the door.

I thought I detected two voices.

But I was impatient, and, getting no answer, whispered in the same manner as before, 'Mademoiselle de la Vire, are you there ?' Still no answer.