Page 2192 - les-miserables

oiled, were in the habit of opening more frequently than was
supposed. This softness was suspicious; it hinted at furtive
goings and comings, silent entrances and exits of nocturnal
men, and the wolf-like tread of crime.
The sewer was evidently an accomplice of some myste-
rious band. This taciturn grating was a receiver of stolen
goods.
Thenardier opened the gate a little way, allowing just suf-
ficient space for Jean Valjean to pass out, closed the grating
again, gave the key a double turn in the lock and plunged
back into the darkness, without making any more noise
than a breath. He seemed to walk with the velvet paws of
a tiger.
A moment later, that hideous providence had retreated
into the invisibility.
Jean Valjean found himself in the open air.

2192 Les Miserables