"In the service of M. Genlis, the Socialist leader."

"And your second conviction?" said M. Formery.

"It was for having cried in the porch of Ste. Clotilde, 'Down with
the cows!'--meaning the police, sir," said the concierge.

"And were you in the service of M. Genlis then?" said M. Formery.

"No, sir; I was in the service of M. Bussy-Rabutin, the Royalist
deputy."

"You don't seem to have very well-defined political convictions,"
said M. Formery.

"Oh, yes, sir, I have," the concierge protested. "I'm always devoted
to my masters; and I have the same opinions that they have--always."

"Very good; you can go," said M. Formery.

The concierge and his wife left the room, looking as if they did not
quite know whether to feel relieved or not.

"Those two fools are telling the exact truth, unless I'm very much
mistaken," said M. Formery.

"They look honest enough people," said the Duke.

"Well, now to examine the rest of the house," said M. Formery.