"I think every one who knew the signore at all grew to be very fond of him," said Artois, quietly. "He was greatly beloved here by every one."
His manner to the Pretore was very civil, even respectful. Evidently it had its effect upon that personage. Every one here seemed to be assured that this death was merely an accident, could only have been an accident. He did not know what more to do.
"Va bene!" he said at last, with some reluctance. "We shall see what the doctors say when the autopsy is concluded. Let us hope that nothing will be discovered. I do not wish to distress the poor signora. At the same time I must do my duty. That is evident."
"It seems to me you have done it with admirable thoroughness," said Artois.
"Grazie, Signor Barone, grazie!"
"Grazie, grazie, Signor Barone!" added the Cancelliere.
"Grazie, Signor Barone!" said the deep voice of the Maresciallo.
The authorities now slowly prepared to take their departure.
"You are coming with us, Signor Barone?" said the Pretore.
Artois was about to say yes, when he saw pass across the aperture of the doorway of the cottage the figure of a girl with bent head. It disappeared immediately.