I could not focus my thoughts.
"Louis," I said, "is this a great joke, or are you talking to me in sober, serious earnest ?" "I am talking in earnest, monsieur," Louis said slowly.

"I have not exaggerated or spoken a word to you which is not the truth." "Let me understand this thing a little more clearly," I said.

"What has Ferdinand Delora done that he need fear a murderous assault?
What has he done to make enemies?
Is he a criminal, or are those who seek him criminals ?" "He carries with him," Louis said slowly, "a secret which will produce a great fortune.

There are others who think that they have a right to share in it.

It is those others who are his enemies.