Struck in his turn by the noble appearance of Rudolph, and the dignity of his manner, the magistrate replied, "I do not doubt the probity of Morel; I only regret being compelled to fulfill a painful duty before you, sir, who have shown so lively an interest in this family." "What can you mean, sir?" "After the services you have rendered the Morels, and from your language, I know that you are a worthy man. Having, besides, no reason to conceal the object of the mandate I am about to execute, I will acknowledge that I am about to arrest Louise Morel, the lapidary's daughter." The rouleau of gold that she had offered to the bailiffs came to the mind of Rudolph. "Of what is she accused?" "She is accused of infanticide." "She, she! Oh, her poor father!" "From what you have told me, sir, I conceive that, under the circumstances in which the artisan is placed, this new blow will be terrible for him. Unfortunately I must obey my orders." "But it is only a simple accusation!" cried Rudolph. "The proofs are wanting, without doubt?" "I cannot explain myself further on this subject. The authorities have been informed of this crime, or rather, the presumption, by the declarations of a man in every way respectable--the master of Louise Morel." "Jacques Ferrand, the notary," said Rudolph indignantly. "Yes, sir. But why this vivacity?" "M. Jacques Ferrand, the notary, is a scoundrel, sir!" "I see with pain that you do not know of whom you speak. M. Jacques Ferrand is the most honorable man in the world; of most exemplary piety, and known probity." "I repeat to you, sir, that the notary is a scoundrel. He wished to imprison Morel, because his daughter repulsed his infamous propositions. If Louise is only accused on the testimony of such a man--acknowledge, sir, that it merits but little belief." "It does not belong to me, sir, and it does not become me, to discuss the value of the testimony of M. Ferrand," said the officer coldly. "Justice has taken cognizance of the affair; the tribunals will decide. As to me, I have orders to arrest Louise Morel, and I shall do it."