"And I think an officer at the door of whatever bedroom she does
sleep in," said Guerchard.

"Undoubtedly--most necessary," said M. Formery gravely. "See to it,
inspector. You can take her away."

The inspector called in a couple of policemen, and with their aid he
and Bonavent raised the sleeping woman, a man at each corner of the
mattress, and bore her from the room.

"And now to reconstruct," said M. Formery; and he folded his arms
and plunged into profound reflection.

The Duke and Guerchard watched him in silence.




CHAPTER XI

THE FAMILY ARRIVES


In carrying out Victoire, the inspector had left the door of the
drawing-room open. After he had watched M. Formery reflect for two
minutes, Guerchard faded--to use an expressive Americanism--through
it. The Duke felt in the breast-pocket of his coat, murmured softly,
"My cigarettes," and followed him.