17Monday morning dawned cool and cloudy. Ben took a shorter run than usual and headed off to Bergerac to meet with Petit, wanting to clear the decks at least for a few days so he could concentrate on the Crespelle case. Molly had a quick cup of coffee and a croissant, quite stale, and went to check on Elise Mertens.
“Oh, bonjour Molly,” said Todor, opening the door of the cottage and ushering her inside. He looked a little frazzled, his hair sticking out; his clothes did not look fresh.
“Just wanted to see how Elise is doing this morning, and if I can get anything for either of you when I go into the village in a few minutes.”
“Much better,” said a weak voice from the bedroom.
Molly smiled. “Glad to hear it!” she called, not wanting to intrude by going to the doorway.
“She would like
