In spite of his easy bearing and manner, suspicions had been aroused in the uneasy minds of the rabble, but when Marteau lifted the candle and bade them bring their own lights and see through an iron grating in the door what the chamber beyond contained and they recognized the casks and bottles, to say nothing of hams, smoked meats and other eatables, their suspicions vanished.

They burst into uproarious acclamation.
"Hasten," cried the leader.
"This is the last door." "Have you the key ?" "It is here." Marteau lifted the key, thrust it in the lock and turned it slowly, as if by a great effort and, the door opening outward, he drew it back.
"Enter," he said.

"Help yourselves." With cries of joy like famished wolves the whole band poured into the wine cellar.

All, that is, but Marteau.

As the last men entered he flung the door to and with astonishing quickness turned the key in the lock and turned away.