“In the Aube? That is not within our jurisdiction, and does not concern us.”
“I beg your pardon; it concerns us very much. For the people who have committed these crimes have also the Vanves affair to their credit, and it is for this affair, of which the other is only the consequence, that they are wanted.”
“Then you know them?”
“I do.”
“And you know where to lay hands on them?”
“No. But I can tell you how to do so.”
“So the affair we were so unfortunately obliged to shelve a couple of months ago is about to recommence? Perhaps this time we shall be able to reach a satisfactory conclusion!”
“I maintain without the slightest hesitation that we shall succeed if you will do your duty.”
“I?” exclaimed M. Mayeur, his face purple with agitation. “I! After all the trouble I have had, and the humiliation I have endured.”
He felt that he was giving himself away. The passionate and ardent nature of the man disappeared, and the calm, cold nature of the magistrate resumed sway.