r examination of the count; but could he?
His conscience told him that this would be another blunder. He renewed,
then, the painful examination.

"Sir," said he, "the sentiments expressed by the viscount are very fine,
without doubt; but did he not mention Widow Lerouge?"

"Yes," replied the count, who appeared suddenly to brighten, as by the
remembrance of some unnoticed circumstances,--"yes, certainly."

"He must have shown you that this woman's testimony rendered a struggle
with M. Gerdy impossible."

"Precisely; sir; and, aside from the question of duty, it was upon that
that he based his refusal to follow my wishes."

"It will be necessary, count, for you to repeat to me very exactly all
that passed between the viscount and yourself. Appeal, then, I beseech
you, to your memory, and try to repeat his own words as nearly as
possible."

M. de Commarin could do so without much difficulty. For some little
time, a salutary reaction had taken place within him. His blood, excited
by the persistence of the examination, moved in its accustomed course.
His brain cleared itself.

The scene of the previous evening was admirably presented to his memory,
even to the most insignificant details. The sound of Albert's voice was
still in his ears; he saw again his expressive gestures. As his story
advanced, alive with clearness and precision, M. Daburon's conviction
became more confirmed.

The magistrate turned against Albert precisely that which the day before
had won the count's admiration.

"What wonderful acting!" thought he. "Tabaret is decidedly possessed
of second sight. To his inconceivable boldness, this young man joins an
infernal cleverness. The genius of crime itself inspires him. It is a
miracle that we are able to unmask him. How well everything was foreseen
and arranged? How marvellously this scene with his father was brought
about, in order to procure doubt in case of discovery? There is not
a sentence which lacks a purpose, which does not tend to ward off
suspicion. What refinement of execution! What excessive care for
details! Nothing is wanting, not even the great devotion of his
betrothed. Has he really informed Claire? Probably I might find out;
but I should have to see her again, to speak to her. Poor child! to love
such a man! But his plan is now fully exposed. His discussion with the
count was his plank of safety. It committed him to nothing, and gained
time. He would of course raise objections, sin