slowly, "yes; this supposition very naturally
presents itself to the mind. But think a moment, sir, such a theory
would prove that the idea we entertained a short time since is
altogether false. If the Widow Chupin is an accomplice, the murderer is
not the person we have supposed him to be; he is simply the man he seems
to be."

This argument apparently convinced M. Segmuller. "What is your opinion?"
he asked.

The young detective had formed his opinion a long while ago. But how
could he, a humble police agent, venture to express any decided views
when the magistrate hesitated? He understood well enough that his
position necessitated extreme reserve; hence, it was in the most modest
tone that he replied: "Might not the pretended drunkard have dazzled
Mother Chupin's eyes with the prospect of a brilliant reward? Might he
not have promised her a considerable sum of money?"

He paused; Goguet, the smiling clerk, had just returned.

Behind him stood a private of the Garde de Paris who remained
respectfully on the threshold, his heels in a straight line, his right
hand raised to the peak of his shako, and his elbow on a level with his
eyes, in accordance with the regulations.

"The governor of the Depot," said the soldier, "sends me to inquire if
he is to keep the Widow Chupin in solitary confinement; she complains
bitterly about it."

M. Segmuller reflected for a moment. "Certainly," he murmured, as if
replying to an objection made by his own conscience; "certainly, it
is an undoubted aggravation of suffering; but if I allow this woman
to associate with the other prisoners, she will certainly find some
opportunity to communicate with parties outside. This must not be; the
interests of justice and truth must be considered first." The thought
embodied in these last words decided him. "Despite her complaints the
prisoner must be kept in solitary confinement until further orders," he
said.

The soldier allowed his right hand to fall to his side, he carried
his right foot three inches behind his left heel, and wheeled around.
Goguet, the smiling clerk, then closed the door, and, drawing a large
envelope from his pocket, handed it to the magistrate. "Here is a
communication from the governor of the Depot," said he.

The magistrate broke the seal, and read aloud, as follows:

"I feel compelled to advise M. Segmuller to take every precaution
with the view of assuring his own safety before proceeding with the
examination