The heirs of a man assassinated are in reality all benefited by the murder; while the assassin obtains at most the victim's watch and purse.

Three persons were interested in Widow Lerouge's death:--Albert, Madame Gerdy, and the Count de Commarin.

It is plain to me that Albert is not the criminal.

It is not Madame Gerdy, who is dying from the shock caused by the unexpected announcement of the crime.

There remains, then, the Count.