In an instant the ground was
cleared, and the three ladies had taken their departure to the
chaise, which was set apart for their use. The men were already
climbing into the house on wheels, when Binet turned to Andre-Louis.
"We part here, sir," said he, dramatically, "the richer by your
acquaintance; your debtors and your friends." He put forth his
podgy hand.
Slowly Andre-Louis took it in his own. He had been thinking swiftly
in the last few moments. And remembering the safety he had found
from his pursuers in the bosom of this company, it occurred to him
that nowhere could he be better hidden for the present, until the
quest for him should have died down.
"Sir," he said, "the indebtedness is on my side. It is not every
day one has the felicity to sit down with so illustrious and
engaging a company."
Binet's little eyes peered suspiciously at the young man, in quest
of irony. He found nothing but candour and simple good faith.
"I part from you reluctantly," Andre-Louis continued. "The more
reluctantly since I do not perceive the absolute necessity for
parting.
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