aught in a vise of which no human strength could force the jaws
asunder. There was nothing to do but yield. He yielded.

"Here, in an hour," repeated M. Nicole.

"In an hour," said Prasville, tamely. Nevertheless, in order to know
exactly where he stood, he added, "The letters, of course, will be
restored to me against Gilbert's pardon?"

"No."

"How do you mean, no? In that case, there is no object in..."

"They will be restored to you, intact, two months after the day when my
friends and I have brought about Gilbert's escape... thanks to the
very slack watch which will be kept upon him, in accordance with your
orders."

"Is that all?"

"No, there are two further conditions: first, the immediate payment of a
cheque for forty thousand francs."

"Forty thousand francs?"

"The sum for which Stanislas Vorenglade sold me the letters. It is only
fair..."

"And next?"

"Secondly, your resignation, within six months, of your present
position."

"My resignation? But why?"

M. Nicole made a very dignified gesture:

"Because it is against public morals that one of the highest positions
in the police-service should be occupied by a man whose hands are not
absolutely clean. Make them send you to parliament or appoint you a
minister, a councillor of State, an ambassador, in short, any post
which your success in the Daubrecq case entitles you to demand. But not
secretary-general of police; anything but that! The very thought of it
disgusts me."

Prasville reflected for a moment. He would have rejoiced in the sudden
destruction of his adversary and he racked his brain for the means to
effect it. But he was helpless.

He went to the door and called:

"M. Lartigue." And, sinking his voice, but not very low, for he wished
M. Nicole to hear, "M. Lartigue, dismiss your men. It's a mistake. And
let no one come into my office while I am gone. This gentleman will wait
for me here."

He came back, took the hat, stick and overcoat which M. Nicole handed
him and went out.

"Well done, sir," said Lupin, between his teeth, when the door was
closed. "You have behaved like a sportsman and a gentleman... So did I,
for that matter... perhaps with too obvious a touch of contempt... and
a little too bluntly. But, tush, this sort of business has to be carried
through with a high hand! The enemy's got to be staggered! Besides, when
one's own conscience is clear, one can't take up too bullying a tone
with that sort of individual