"What, from neither one of them?"

The detective fixed a penetrating look upon his companion, and in
a measured tone, said:

"From neither one."

M. Plantat only answered by a movement of the lips, as if to say,
"You are going too far."

The other smiled, opened the door, and called:

"Francois!"

The valet hastened to obey the call. His face was suffused with
tears; he actually bewailed the loss of his master.

"Hear what I've got to say, my lad," said M. Lecoq, with true
detective-like familiarity. "And be sure and answer me exactly,
frankly, and briefly."

"I will, sir."

"Was it customary here at the chateau, to bring up the wine before
it was wanted?"

"No, sir; before each meal, I myself went down to the cellar for it."

"Then no full bottles were ever kept in the dining-room?"