[Giovanna Clairval]

What did my solicitor (not a "notary", as I explained) do with my ms?

She took the sealed envelope, put it in her vault, and then delivered an official-looking paper (the receipt she usually gives when she takes important documents--so kind!) certifying that she had received a sealed envelope that particular day, and she put an impressive rubber stamp on it. I loved the whole process .

In the very-unlikely event that someone tried to publish my novel in my stead, I would have a "huissier" (another individual that has taken the oath of relating anything she's asked to relate in a faithful manner) open the envelope. This certification holds a character of truth.
Btw, this "hussier" is a bailiff.