The Vicomte asked that you should go to him at once." The atmosphere of the old house seemed gloomy and full of foreboding as I ran up the stairs.

The servant stood at the open door and watched me.

In that unknown world behind the green baize door more is known than we suspect, and there is often no surprise there when we who live above stairs are dumbfounded.
In my haste I forgot to knock at Monsieur de Clericy's door before opening it--indeed, I think it was ajar.
"My good friend," I heard as I entered the room, "collect yourself.

Be calm.

We are together in a great misfortune--the money has been stolen!" The voice was that of my patron.