ut that this document was
none other than the distribution chart of the concealed works in and
about the girdle of forts on the east of Paris.... This is inaccurate.
Captain, what has disappeared is the distribution list of our
artillery mechanics! That is much more serious!... However, for some
time past we have had under consideration a rearrangement scheme. We
are going to take advantage of the disappearance of the document in
question, Document Number 6--keep that number in mind--we are going
to draw up a new plan for the mobilisation of the rear-guards. You are
to be entrusted with this, and I count on your devoting your whole
time and attention to it."

Captain Muller understood that the conversation was at an end. He
rose, saying quietly:

"You may count on me, Colonel."

He was then given his official instructions.

Hofferman left the couch, and, dropping his nail polisher, came
towards the captain with outstretched hands.

"My father knew yours in bygone days," he cried genially; "both were
natives of Colmar."

"Why, is that so, indeed, Colonel?" cried the captain, delighted to
find himself among friends.

Hofferman nodded.

"All will go well, be sure of it. I know you take your work
seriously.... We have excellent reports of you--you are married, are
you not?"

Muller nodded in the affirmative.

"Excellent!" declared the colonel. Pointing a threatening finger at
Muller.

"You know our standing orders here! Many acquaintances--very few
intimates: no mistress."

The colonel did not remain alone in his office long. He sent for
Lieutenant de Loubersac. With a soldier's punctuality he appeared
before his chief. He was in uniform.

"Nothing unusual this morning, Loubersac?" questioned Hofferman,
gazing complacently at the soldier, superb in his magnificent uniform,
an elegant and splendid specimen of a cavalry officer.

"Nothing, Colonel. The arrival of the King of Greece has been
perfectly carried out."

"The crowd?"

"Oh, indifferent on the whole; come to have a look at him out of
curiosity."

"Ah, no King of Spain affair?"

"No, no! Out of that I got this scar on my forehead."

"Well," cried the colonel, "it's an ill wind that blows nobody any
good! You will get the cross all the quicker!"

Lieutenant de Loubersac smiled.

Hofferman continued:

"My dear fellow, ... you know ... the vanished document!... It's
extremely important--it will have to be found!"

"Good, Colonel!"

"H