But, as nothing came, the president continued, turning to witness,—
P.—Your declaration is a very serious one, sir.
C.C.—I know its weight.
P.—It is entirely different from your first deposition made before the investigating magistrate.
C.C.—It is.
P.—When you were examined a few hours after the crime, you declared that you had not recognized the murderer. More than that, when M. de Boiscoran’s name was mentioned, you seemed to be indignant of such a suspicion, and almost became surety yourself for his innocence.
C.C.—That was contrary to truth. I felt a very natural sense of commiseration, and tried to save a man who belonged to a highly esteemed family from disgraceful punishment.
P.—But now?
C.C.—Now I see that I was wrong, and that the law ought to have its course. And this is my reason for coming here,—although afflicted by a disease which never spares, and on the point of appearing before God—in order to tell you M. de Boiscoran is guilty. I recognized him.
P.—(To the accused.) Do you hear?