“He may give us a valuable hint, nevertheless.”
“He? A man who has no sense? You don’t really think so. The law cannot attach any importance to the evidence of a fool.”
M. Galpin betrayed his impatience by an increase of stiffness, as he replied,—
“I know my duty, sir.”
“And I,” replied the physician,—“I also know what I have to do. You have summoned me to assist you in this investigation. I obey; and I declare officially, that the mental condition of this unfortunate man makes his evidence utterly worthless. I appeal to the commonwealth attorney.”
He had hoped for a word of encouragement from M. Daubigeon; but nothing came. Then he went on,—
“Take care, sir, or you may get yourself into trouble. What would you do if this poor fellow should make a formal charge against any one? Could you attach any weight to his word?”
The peasants were listening with open mouths. One of them said,—
“Oh! Cocoleu is not so innocent as he looks.”
“He can say very well what he wants to say, the scamp!” added another.