How was that? Because it was the body, not of a man,
but of a woman, which was dragged across the lawn--of a woman
full-dressed, with heavy petticoats; that, in short, of the countess,
and not of the count."
M. Lecoq paused, in expectation of a question, or a remark.
But the old justice of the peace did not seem to be listening, and
appeared to be plunged in the deepest meditation. Night was falling;
a light fog hung like smoke over the Seine.
"We must go in," said M. Plantat, abruptly, "and see how the doctor
has got on with his autopsy."
They slowly approached the house. The judge of instruction awaited
them on the steps. He appeared to have a satisfied air.
"I am going to leave you in charge," said he to M. Plantat, "for if
I am to see the procureur, I must go at once. When you sent for
him this morning, he was absent."
M. Plantat bowed.
"I shall be much obliged if you will watch this affair to the end.
The doctor will have finished in a few minutes, he says, and will
report to-morrow morning. I count on your co-operation to put
seals wherever they are necessary, and to select the guard over the
chateau.
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