ller made no rejoinder; and it was evident to Lecoq that the
magistrate had offered this objection rather in the hope of its being
overruled, than with the wish to see it prevail.

"I think, my poor fellow," he at length observed, "that you are
strangely deceived. We have both been equally anxious to penetrate
the mystery that enshrouds this strange man. We have both admired
his wonderful acuteness--for his sagacity is wonderful; so marvelous,
indeed, that it exceeds the limits of imagination. Do you believe that
a man of his penetration would betray himself like an ordinary prisoner?
He will understand at once, if he is set at liberty, that his freedom is
only given him so that we may surprise his secret."

"I don't deceive myself, sir. May will guess the truth of course. I'm
quite aware of that."

"Very well. Then, what would be the use of attempting what you propose?"

"I have come to this conclusion," replied Lecoq, "May will find himself
strangely embarrassed, even when he's set free. He won't have a sou
in his pocket; we know he has no trade, so what will he do to earn a
living? He may struggle along for a while; but he won't be willing to
suffer long. Man must have food and shelter, and when he finds himself
without a roof over his head, without even a crust of bread to break, he
will remember that he is rich. Won't he then try to recover possession
of his property? Yes, certainly he will. He will try to obtain money,
endeavor to communicate with his friends, and I shall wait till that
moment arrives. Months may elapse, before, seeing no signs of my
surveillance, he may venture on some decisive step; and then I will
spring forward with a warrant for his arrest in my hand."

"And what if he should leave Paris? What if he should go abroad?"

"Oh, I will follow him. One of my aunts has left me a little land in the
provinces worth about twelve thousand francs. I will sell it, and spend
the last sou, if necessary, so long as I only have my revenge. This man
has outwitted me as if I were a child, and I must have my turn."

"And what if he should slip through your fingers?"

Lecoq laughed like a man that was sure of himself. "Let him try," he
exclaimed; "I will answer for him with my life."

"Your idea is not a bad one," said M. Segmuller, eventually. "But
you must understand that law and justice will take no part in such
intrigues. All I can promise you is my tacit approval. Go, therefore, to
the Prefecture; s