Everything in him gave way at once; all his supports failed him at the same time.
His cold, lifeless gaze revealed the dull stupor of his thoughts.
He presented such a picture of utter despair that the investigating magistrate slightly shuddered at the sight.

M.Tabaret looked frightened, and even the clerk seemed moved.
"Constant," said M.Daburon quickly, "go with M.Tabaret, and see if there's any news at the Prefecture." The clerk left the room, followed by the detective, who went away regretfully.

The count had not noticed their presence; he paid no attention to their departure.
M.Daburon offered him a seat, which he accepted with a sad smile.

"I feel so weak," said he, "you must excuse my sitting." Apologies to an investigating magistrate! What an advance in civilisation, when the nobles consider themselves subject to the law, and bow to its decrees! Every one respects justice now-a-days, and fears it a little, even when only represented by a simple and conscientious investigating magistrate.
"You are, perhaps, too unwell, count," said the magistrate, "to give me the explanations I had hoped for." "I am better, thank you," replied M.de Commarin, "I am as well as could be expected after the shock I have received.

When I heard of the crime of which my son is accused, and of his arrest, I was thunderstruck.
I believed myself a strong man; but I rolled in the dust.