He could not be an assassin, and it was repugnant to Monk to believe him to be a spy; but there was sufficient _finesse_ and at the same time firmness in Athos to lead Monk to fancy he was a conspirator.

When they had quitted the table, "You still believe in your treasure, then, monsieur ?" asked Monk.
"Yes, my lord." "Quite seriously ?" "Seriously." "And you think you can find the place again where it was buried ?" "At the first inspection." "Well, monsieur, from curiosity I shall accompany you.

And it is so much the more necessary that I should accompany you, that you would find great difficulties in passing through the camp without me or one of my lieutenants." "General, I would not suffer you to inconvenience yourself if I did not, in fact, stand in need of your company; but as I recognize that this company is not only honorable, but necessary, I accept it." "Do you desire we should take any people with us ?" asked Monk.
"General, I believe that would be useless, if you yourself do not see the necessity for it.

Two men and a horse will suffice to transport the two casks on board the felucca which brought me hither." "But it will be necessary to pick, dig, and remove the earth, and split stones; you don't intend doing this work yourself, monsieur, do you ?" "General, there is no picking or digging required.

The treasure is buried in the sepulchral vault of the convent, under a stone in which is fixed a large iron ring, and under which there are four steps leading down.