Baradier, boiling over with excitement, rose in his turn, and began to walk to and fro, speaking in snatches. “For the last two hours, General, we have been disputing in this way, Graff and myself, and the only reply he can give me is that I am not just! As though that were a matter of concern when an imperious instinct cries out to you: ‘There is the culprit. He is not seen; he is well masked, cunningly concealed, and appears in nothing.’ Probably he will not be found out, but it is he all the same who has done the deed, because it was to his interest and hatred combined to do it! No! With his justice, humanity, and philanthropy, you can have no idea how stupid Graff is, at times!” In spite of the gravity of the situation, the three friends burst into a loud laugh, and Graff, bending forward his great body, exclaimed— “Thanks!” The Minister then intervened to give a little order to the debate. “Come, Baradier, explain yourself. As your brother-in-law says, vague presentiments are not sufficient to establish an accusation. Presumptions lead to investigations, and if guilt results from information obtained, then one may proceed. Besides, I will observe to you that the authorities have been notified, an examination has been commenced, and if you have proofs to furnish—” “Impossible!” interrupted Baradier. “To you I have been telling my inmost thoughts; to an examining magistrate I would not repeat what I have just said.” “Ah!” triumphed Graff; “what did I tell you?” “For me to quit my reserve, such discoveries ought to be brought to light, that the proofs—moral as they are—upon which I lean, should have material coincidences. But do not think I am retreating. I will make inquiries, and if I find—” “You will not find anything. If your suspicions are true, we have to deal with those who are stronger than ourselves.” “We shall see about that!” The General intervened again. “Is this Lichtenbach, of whom you speak, the great merchant-prince who is allied with the clerico-royalist party?” “Yes, the same man.” “And you imagine him capable of a crime?” “I believe he is capable of anything.” “Doubtless you know that he is very influential with the Ministry, and obtains whatever he wishes.” “He is very powerful everywhere; his arms stretch in all directions.” “But what interest would he have in trying to circumvent Trémont, in the first place, and, afterwards, in bringing about his disappearance?”