The justice made inquiries. The crowd, led by Léocadia, demanded that some one should be selected as the culprit. Bruno, for that purpose, seemed as good as any one to them.
Monsieur Bérard heard many accusations, and then, after consulting with Banastre, determined to go to Mother Mathurine’s cottage. A crowd of people followed, and upon reaching the house they found Bruno in his room, looking the image of woe.
“He was hiding,” sneered some one.
They conveyed him to the gamekeeper’s house.
“You are accused,” said the justice, “of having killed Savin Barrau.”
At these words a sigh of relief burst from Bruno’s lips.
“Yes, Monsieur, I killed him.”
The moment’s ensuing silence was broken by two voices—Catherine’s and Sidonie’s.
“It is not true! It is not true!”
But it was the little lame girl who continued: “Do not listen, Monsieur, do not listen! He is not capable of it, I assure you. The boy is mad. I will tell you why he accuses himself.”