George had not expected to hear the person whom Puymirol suspected of the crime make such a statement as this. "You know the culprit and yet you have not denounced him," said he.
"Oh! I make it a principle never to meddle with matters that don't concern me."
"But this does concern you. You knew Dargental so well."
"No doubt; and he has died for having deserted me."
"I don't understand you."
"Oh! that doesn't matter. Had I cared to tell what I know, I should have done so to the magistrate who questioned me; and I deserve some credit for holding my tongue, for he insinuated that suspicion might fall upon me. But I have nothing to fear, and I am going to stand my ground. Have you seen the Countess de Lescombat?" added Blanche, abruptly, "I suppose you know she is here."
"Here, a fortnight after Dargental's death? It's impossible!"
"She is enthroned up there in the stewards' stand, and Dargental's death has not affected her in the least."
"It is certainly scandalous," replied George.
"Oh! she imagines that by showing herself here, she will make people believe that Dargental was indifferent to her."