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But his heart did not leave off. On the contrary, as though to

spite him, it throbbed more and more violently. He could stand it

no longer, he slowly put out his hand to the bell and rang. Half

a minute later he rang again, more loudly.

No answer. To go on ringing was useless and out of place. The old

woman was, of course, at home, but she was suspicious and alone.

He had some knowledge of her habits... and once more he put his

ear to the door. Either his senses were peculiarly keen (which it

is difficult to suppose), or the sound was really very distinct.

Anyway, he suddenly heard something like the cautious touch of a

hand on the lock and the rustle of a skirt at the very door.

Someone was standing stealthily close to the lock and just as he

was doing on the outside was secretly listening within, and

seemed to have her ear to the door....