The Commissaire stared at her for a moment in astonishment. What was the meaning of this sudden assurance in her tone? Could it be possible that this girl had noted something that he had overlooked? That she had evolved a theory out of some intangible bit of evidence that had escaped him? Impossible. And yet curiously enough, he experienced a slight feeling of uneasiness which might have been discomfort had he not been so sure of himself.
"You have perhaps happened upon something that has escaped my eye?" he asked frankly.
"I do not know what your eye saw or what it did not see, Monsieur," she said quietly, "but I have learned nothing to make me change my opinions as to this crime."
"I hope that you will be able to confirm them," said the Commissaire. "If there is anything that I can do——"
"Yes, Monsieur," broke in Moira with precision. "If Monsieur le Juge d'Instruction will grant permission," with a flash of her eyes at Monsieur Simon, "I would be obliged if you will summon for me Monsieur Joubert or any others in the building who followed Monsieur Horton up the stair."
She glanced at Monsieur Simon, who bowed his head in agreement.
"By all means," said the Judge, "if Madame has reason to believe——"
"I ask it, Monsieur le Juge, not as a favor, but as a necessary step in the administration of justice in this case."
"It is little enough. Go, Monsieur. Here are the names. Madame Toupin will direct you."
Monsieur Matthieu hesitated. He did not wish to leave the room. Something had happened to change the manner of this woman. Her eyes glowed—she was authoritative—inspired. He was beginning to believe that after all...