' However, instead of M. d'Escorval,
he sees M. Segmuller. Then what happens? He is surprised, and his eyes
betray the astonishment he feels when he realizes the generosity of his
enemy--an enemy from whom he had expected no indulgence. Then a smile
comes to his lips--a smile of hope; for he thinks, since M. d'Escorval
has not betrayed his secret, that he may be able to keep it, and emerge,
perhaps, from this shadow of shame and crime with his name and honor
still untarnished."
Old Tabaret paused, and then, with a sudden change of tone and an
ironical gesture, he added: "And that--is my explanation."
Father Absinthe had risen, frantic with delight. "Cristi!" he exclaimed,
"that's it! that's it!"
Lecoq's approbation was none the less evident although unspoken. He
could appreciate this rapid and wonderful work of induction far better
than his companion.
For a moment or two old Tabaret reclined upon his pillows enjoying
the sweets of admiration; then he continued: "Do you wish for further
proofs, my boy? Recollect the perseverance M. d'Escorval displayed in
sending to M. Segmuller for information. I admit that a man may have
a passion for his profession; but not to such an extent as that. You
believed that his leg was broken. Then were you not surprised to find
a magistrate, with a broken limb, suffering mortal anguish, taking such
wonderful interest in a miserable murderer? I haven't any broken bones,
I've only got the gout; but I know very well that when I'm suffering,
half the world might be judging the other half, and yet the idea of
sending Mariette for information would never occur to me.
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