subsequently obtained a similar permit, and investigation with the aid
of an expert showed that the bold scoundrel had handled the jewels, and
so managed to change the imitation stone which he stole at the festival
for the real one in the set which figured in the train robbery."

"By Jove," said Mr. Mitchel, "he is an artist. Then I am indebted to
you after all for recovering the stone, but tell us, how did you
accomplish it?"

"I overheard Montalbon once say that a wise thief would keep a stolen
article upon his person so that it could not be discovered without his
knowledge. Therefore I felt certain that he would himself adopt this
method. When the conversation this evening reached a point where it was
evident that all would be disclosed, the man, who is present, dropped
the ruby into his glass of Burgundy, where it would be out of sight and
easily recovered, or swallowed. Later he attempted to dispose of it in
this way, but I quickly drank his glass of wine, the ruby thus passing
into my mouth. And now Mr. Montalbon, I arrest you in the name of the
law," saying which, the detective put his hand upon Mr. Thauret's arm.
The other guests jumped up, excited and expecting a scene. To the
astonishment of all, Thauret remained quiet for a few moments, and then
speaking slowly and distinctly, said:

"Gentlemen, we have heard several stories here to-night, will you listen
to mine, and suspend judgment for a few moments?"

"We will hear you," said Mr. Mitchel, marvelling at the man's nerve. The
others resumed their seats, all except the detective, who stood just
back of his prisoner.

"I will trouble you to fill my glass," said Thauret to the waiter, and
after being served, he coolly sipped a mouthful.

"I shall not bore you with a lengthy recital," he began, "I shall
simply make a statement. Society, the civilized society of to-day,
frowns upon and punishes what it terms 'the criminal class.' Yet how
many have ever examined into the existing state of things, and analyzed
the causes which make the criminal a possibility? The life of such a man
is not so inviting that one would adopt it from choice, one I mean who
had moral instincts. With the naturally immoral it would be otherwise,
of course. But if one be born immoral, who is to blame? The individual
himself, or the antecedents, including both parentage and circumstances?
We pity the man who is congenitally tainted with disease, and we condemn
that other man who is t