But men do not see clearly in affairs
in which they are deeply interested; passion dims the eyes, as heat
in a room dims a pair of spectacles. He had lost, with his
coolness, a part of his clearsightedness. His anxiety was very
great; for he thought M. Lecoq had a singular mode of keeping his
promise.
"It seems to me," he could not help remarking, "that if you wish
to keep Hector from trial, the men you have summoned together will
be more embarrassing than useful."
M. Lecoq thought that his guest's tone and look betrayed a certain
doubt, and was irritated by it.
"Do you distrust me, Monsieur Plantat?"
The old man tried to protest.
"Believe me--"
"You have my word," resumed M. Lecoq, "and if you knew me better
you would know that I always keep it when I have given it. I have
told you that I would do my best to save Mademoiselle Laurence; but
remember that I have promised you my assistance, not absolute
success. Let me, then, take such measures as I think best."
So saying, he rang for Janouille.
"Here's a letter," said he when she appeared, "which must be sent
to Job at once."
"I will carry it."
"By no means.
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