The Simon
girl, who was accused of having killed her father, absolutely
refused to answer any questions for twenty-two days; on the
twenty-third, the murderer was caught. As to the Sylvain affair--"
M. Domini rapped lightly on his desk to check the detective. As a
man, the judge held too obstinately to his opinions; as a magistrate
he was equally obstinate, but was at the same time ready to make any
sacrifice of his self-esteem if the voice of duty prompted it. M.
Lecoq's arguments had not shaken his convictions, but they imposed
on him the duty of informing himself at once, and to either conquer
the detective or avow himself conquered.
"You seem to be pleading," said he to M. Lecoq. "There is no need
of that here. We are not counsel and judge; the same honorable
intentions animate us both. Each, in his sphere, is searching after
the truth. You think you see it shining where I only discern clouds;
and you may be mistaken as well as I."
Then by an act of heroism, he condescended to add:
"What do you think I ought to do?"
The judge was at least rewarded for the effort he made by approving
glances from M. Plantat and the doctor.
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