“Monsieur Gauvreau.” Commissioner Yves Tondreau motioned to the chair before his great desk.
“Merci, commissioner.” Jean Pierre took the seat and placed his gloves and tricorn hat on his knees before him.
He surveyed the typical civil servant’s office. It was decorated in dark woods with little light, and piles of papers surrounding the large man. There was a bottle and glass at his hand, along with a dirty quill pen and half a bottle of black ink.
“How may I assist you? This is an unexpected visit,” Commissioner Tondreau replied smoothly.
“Yes. I received an unexpected visit myself and would like to remedy the situation,” Jean Pierre began.
The commissioner’s brow furrowed and he asked, “Indeed? What situation is this?”
“Inspector Vennard. I believe he is under your jurisdiction. He visited my home intent on pursuing the identity of a writer of pamphlets,” Jean Pierre supplied.
The Commissioner nodded. “Yes, I recall I gave him leave to pursue any inquiries he felt might lead to the true identity.”
“Not in my home,” Jean Pierre said softly.
“You think he is on the wrong track?” the commissioner asked.
“Most assuredly. I employ a maid, and have an elderly mother and young daughter. Do you think any of these women would seek to write a pamphlet criticizing the monarchy?” Jean Pierre asked.
“Perhaps. Perhaps not.” He poured himself another drink and sipped it while Jean Pierre watched his slow movements.
“Perhaps you will talk to him and explain that this is not the right path. He should seek his writer elsewhere.” Jean Pierre spoke, but implied it was not a request.
The commissioner nodded. “Yes. The writer cannot be in your household. It would not make sense. A woman benefits from the very life she publically criticizes?”
“You understand,?
? Jean Pierre said, nodding.
“I will speak to Vennard.”
“We understand each other. Good day to you, commissioner.”
The commissioner nodded in return. “Monsieur.”
***
“I don’t understand,” Alain said to the commissioner. “Why should I stop all investigation with the Gauvreau family?”
“Because I am your superior and I have told you to cease all investigation,” Yves said heatedly.
Alain shook his head. “Has someone spoken to you? Placed pressure on you?”
“Absurd! I answer to no one!” Yves said, flushed.
Alain knew his commissioner was old and settled. He would not want to upset the apple cart so there was no need to press the man further. He would play the game. He nodded in compliance. “It will be as you wish.”
The commissioner nodded. “Bon.”
Alain closed the door to his superior’s office and almost snarled. Sophie was the key to his plans and he would not let anyone get in his way. He would stay the course he was on, but in secret.
***
The newlyweds dined with Sophie’s father and grandmother, and after dinner over brandy, Jean Pierre relayed his conversation with the commissioner to Sebastian.
“What prompted the meeting?” Sebastian asked, curious.