When Rivero introduced himself the Commissary bowed to us both and bade us be seated.
In a few quick sentences the Spanish detective explained the object of his mission, and producing his authority from the Spanish Ministry, requested the arrest of the infamous bandit Despujol.
“But is Despujol actually in Nîmes?” cried the Commissary astounded.
“He certainly is. I identified him on his arrival here at midday.”
“We have been searching for him for over two years. He is wanted, among other things, for the murder of Madame Lescot, a wealthy widow of Aix-en-Provence.”
“Ah! Then it is not a matter for extradition, eh?” remarked Rivero. “We want him for a dozen crimes of violence in Spain. He attempted the death of my English companion here, Monsieur Garfield—who will give evidence against him.”
The Commissary pressed an electric button, whereupon his secretary appeared.
In a few rapid sentences the tall, elegant French official gave orders, and the secretary retired at once to execute them.
“Despujol is a desperate character. He is always armed, and possesses abnormal strength. He could strangle his strongest opponent,” Rivero remarked.