It was by this door that the advocate went out, though not without using the utmost caution in opening and closing it.

Once in the street, he stood still a moment, as if hesitating which way to go.

Then, he slowly proceeded in the direction of the St.Lazare railway station, when a cab happening to pass, he hailed it.

"Rue du Faubourg Montmarte, at the corner of the Rue de Provence," said Noel, entering the vehicle, "and drive quick." The advocate alighted at the spot named, and dismissed the cabman.

When he had seen him drive off, Noel turned into the Rue de Provence, and, after walking a few yards, rang the bell of one of the handsomest houses in the street.