“I?” exclaimed M. Mayeur, his face purple with agitation. “I! After all the trouble I have had, and the humiliation I have endured.” He felt that he was giving himself away. The passionate and ardent nature of the man disappeared, and the calm, cold nature of the magistrate resumed sway. With a sigh, he said— “Tell me everything in detail.” Baudoin resumed one by one all the events that had taken place at Ars. He depicted the character of Madame Vignola, and of Agostini, and finally explained the dreaded intervention of Hans. Motionless, the magistrate listened, taking short notes from time to time. The time sped swiftly along, the sun as it sank tinged with a ruddy glow the waters of the Seine, and the veil of darkness had fallen when the magistrate ceased listening, and began to question. “So this Cesare Agostini is in Paris?” “M. Graff, M. Marcel’s uncle, has seen him, and M. Marcel has spoken to him. It appears he is engaged to the daughter of M. Lichtenbach, the banker.” “Lichtenbach? A man in his position, with his fortune and relations? Is it possible?” “You will see. If you wish to know where Agostini lives, set a watch over Lichtenbach. They are hand and glove with one another.” “And the woman Vignola?” “Agostini will take you to her abode. And when you have the Vignola, you come to Hans, and the rest of the accomplices, if there are any. And I believe there is a whole gang of them!” “And what will M. Marcel Baradier do?” “Do not trouble about him; he does not wish to appear in the matter. A mere question of scruples!” “But suppose some attempt is made against him? Does he not wish me to take precautions to assure his safety?” “No. He is strong enough to protect himself. Besides I am with him.” “And so was Laforêt.” “Yes, that is true; still, it is my master’s wish—do not do any more than he asks you to undertake. I think you will be well pleased with the result. That has cost dear enough! But if we can obtain vengeance for the murder of my General and poor Laforêt we shall be quits!” “Very well,” said the magistrate. “If I need you, M. Baudoin, where can I find you?” “I am living with my master, M. Baradier.” “Good. Now that you have been working so well, it is my turn. This gang will find that they have not been mocking at justice with impunity.” “Ah! This has been going on a considerable time, from what I understand at the War Office.” “I shall put myself into relations with that Office; we will act in co-operation. Keep your courage up, and have good hopes, M. Baudoin; the affair is about to start afresh.” Baudoin, conducted to the door by the magistrate, went out into the passage, shook hands with the attendant, and left the building. Returning straight to the Rue de Provènce, he mounted to Marcel’s rooms.