The Minister then intervened to give a little order to the debate.
“Come, Baradier, explain yourself. As your brother-in-law says, vague presentiments are not sufficient to establish an accusation. Presumptions lead to investigations, and if guilt results from information obtained, then one may proceed. Besides, I will observe to you that the authorities have been notified, an examination has been commenced, and if you have proofs to furnish—”
“Impossible!” interrupted Baradier. “To you I have been telling my inmost thoughts; to an examining magistrate I would not repeat what I have just said.”
“Ah!” triumphed Graff; “what did I tell you?”
“For me to quit my reserve, such discoveries ought to be brought to light, that the proofs—moral as they are—upon which I lean, should have material coincidences. But do not think I am retreating. I will make inquiries, and if I find—”
“You will not find anything. If your suspicions are true, we have to deal with those who are stronger than ourselves.”
“We shall see about that!”
The General intervened again.
“Is this Lichtenbach, of whom you speak, the great merchant-prince who is allied with the clerico-royalist party?”
“Yes, the same man.”