He would simply have replaced one accomplice by another still more dangerous.

That would be idiotic, and the count is a sensible man.

He, therefore, had nothing whatever to do with the matter.
To be quite sure though, I will make some inquiries about him.

Another thing, Widow Lerouge, who so readily exchanged the children while nursing them, would be very likely to undertake a number of other dangerous commissions.

Who can say that she has not obliged other persons who had an equal interest in getting rid of her?
There is a secret, I am getting at it, but I do not hold it yet.