The Duke of Champdoce has placed a difficult task in your hands.

You are engaged in a secret on his behalf." "You know that also ?" "I know everything that may be made subservient to our ends.

I also know that instead of coming direct to me you went to the very man that we have every reason to dread, that fellow Perpignan, who is nearly as sharp as we are." "Go on," returned Catenac impatiently.

"What do you expect from me on this point ?" "Not much; you must only come to me first, and report any discovery you may have made, and never give any information to the Duke without first consulting us." "I agree." The contending parties seemed to have arrived at an amicable termination, and Dr.Hortebise smiled complacently.
"Now," said he, "shall we not confess, after all, that there was no use in making such a fuss ?" "I allow that I was in the wrong," answered Catenac meekly; and, extending his hands to his two associates with an oily smile, he said: "Let us forget and forgive." Was he to be trusted?
Mascarin and the doctor exchanged glances of suspicion.

A moment afterward a knock came to the door, and Paul entered, making a timid bow to his two patrons.
"My dear boy," said Mascarin, "let me present you to one of my oldest and best friends." Then, turning to Catenac, he added: "I wish to ask you to help and assist my young friend here.