“It is said you were captured by some ruffians, who attempted to slay you, but were prevented by the gendarmes. Is that true?”
“It is.”
“And, further, that the ruffians were seeking to obtain possession of a paper that had been delivered into your hands by Edmond Laforce, the Duke of Benoit du Sault. How about that?”
“I know nothing of the paper,” answered Frank truthfully.
“Then you have not turned it over to the courts?”
“No, monsieur. I have never seen it.”
“Nevertheless, in some manner, that paper has reached the courts. It is said it will clear Dreyfus. Of that I have doubts, for I believe Dreyfus guilty. However, I wished to confirm the story that you were connected with the affair. I understand your life has been threatened?”
“And that is true. I have been told that I must leave France, or the Anti-Dreyfus League would destroy me.”
“Well, there is no reason why you need fear the Anti-Dreyfus League.”
“Why not?”