bed circumstantially the extent of
the injury and its probable cause, he replied to a question of the
_commissaire_, that no entreaty could persuade the wounded man to
give any explanation of the occurrence, nor mention the name of his
adversary. Duchesne paid little apparent attention to the evidence, and
before it was concluded, asked me if I were satisfied with my police
experience, and disposed to move away.

Just at this moment there was a stir among the people round the door,
and we heard the officers of the court cry out, "Room! make way
there!" and the same moment General Duroc entered, accompanied by an
aide-de-camp. He had been sent specially by the Emperor to ascertain
what progress the investigation had made. His Majesty had determined to
push the inquiry to its utmost limits. The general appeared dissatisfied
with the little prospect there appeared of elucidation; and turning to
Duchesne, remarked,--

"This is peculiarly ill-timed just now, as negotiations are pending with
Russia, and the prince's family are about the person of the Czar."

"But as the wound would seem of little consequence, in a few days
perhaps the whole thing may blow over," said Duchesne.

"It is for that very reason," replied Duroc, earnestly, "that we are
pressed for time. The object is to mark the sentiments of his Majesty
_now_. Should the prince be once pronounced out of danger, it will be
too late for sympathy."

"Oh! I perceive," said Duchesne, smiling; "your observation is most
just. If my friend here, however, cannot put you on the track, I fear
you have little to hope for elsewhere."

"I am aware of that; and Monsieur Cauchois knows the great reliance his
Majesty reposes in his skill and activity."

Monsieur Cauchois, the _commissaire_, bowed with a most respectful air
at the compliment, probably of all others the highest that could be paid
him.

"A brilliant soiree we had last evening, Duchesne," said the general. "I
hope this unhappy affair will not close that house at present; you are
aware the prince is the suitor of mademoiselle?"

"I only suspected as much," said the chevalier, with a peculiar smile;
"it was my first evening there."

As General Duroc addressed a few words in a low tone to the
_commissaire_, the man called Bocquin approached the bench, and handed
up a small slip of paper to Duchesne. The chevalier opened it, and
having thrown his eyes over it, passed it into my hand. All I could see
were two w