But M. Lecoq did not hasten
to respond; he had many weighty reasons to advance; that, he saw,
was not what was necessary. He ought to present the facts, there
and at once, and produce one of those proofs which can be touched
with the finger. How should he do it? His active mind searched
eagerly for such a proof.
"Well?" insisted M. Domini.
"Ah," cried the detective. "Why can't I ask Guespin two or three
questions?"
The judge frowned; the suggestion seemed to him rather presumptuous.
It is formally laid down that the questioning of the accused should
be done in secret, and by the judge alone, aided by his clerk. On
the other hand it is decided, that after he has once been
interrogated he may be confronted with witnesses. There are,
besides, exceptions in favor of the members of the police force.
M. Domini reflected whether there were any precedents to apply to
the case.
"I don't know," he answered at last, "to what point the law permits
me to consent to what you ask. However, as I am convinced the
interests of truth outweigh all rules, I shall take it on myself
to let you question Guespin."
He rang; a bailiff appeared.
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