He sometimes even went so far as to consult him, doubtless
somewhat in the same style that Moliere consulted his servant. But, on
this occasion he did not accept his opinion.
"No," said he in a thoughtful tone, "that man is not a knave. When I
spoke to him kindly he was really touched; he wept, he hesitated. I
could have sworn that he was about to tell me everything."
"Ah, he's a man of wonderful power!" observed Lecoq.
The detective was sincere in his praise. Although the prisoner had
disappointed his plans, and had even insulted him, he could not help
admiring his shrewdness and courage. He--Lecoq--had prepared himself for
a strenuous struggle with this man, and he hoped to conquer in the end.
Nevertheless in his secret soul he felt for his adversary, admiring that
sympathy which a "foeman worthy of one's steel" always inspires.
"What coolness, what courage!" continued the young detective. "Ah!
there's no denying it, his system of defense--of absolute denial--is a
masterpiece. It is perfect. How well he played that difficult part of
buffoon! At times I could scarcely restrain my admiration. What is a
famous comedian beside that fellow? The greatest actors need the adjunct
of stage scenery to support the illusion, whereas this man, entirely
unaided, almost convinced me even against my reason."
"Do you know what your very appropriate criticism proves?" inquired the
magistrate.
"I am listening, sir."
"Ah, well! I have arrived at this conclusion--either this man is really
May, the stroller, earning his living by paying compliments, as he
says--or else he belongs to the highest rank of society, and not to the
middle classes.
Pages:
172
173
174
175
176
177
178
179
180
181
182
183
184
185
186
187
188
189
190
191
192
193
194
195
196