At what time did the rain commence here ?" "At half-past nine," answered the corporal.

"I went out from supper to make my circuit of the dancing halls, when I was overtaken opposite the Rue des Pecheurs by a heavy shower.

In less than ten minutes there was half an inch of water in the road." "Very well," said Gevrol.

"Then if the man came after half-past nine his shoes must have been very muddy.

If they were dry, he arrived sooner.
This must have been noticed, for the floor is a polished one.