He stabbed her twice on the back; but she was not killed instantly.

She half arose seizing the assassin by the hands; while he drew back, lifting her suddenly, and then hurling her down in the position in which you see her.

This short struggle is indicated by the posture of the body; for, squatting down and being struck in the back, it is naturally on her back that she ought to have fallen.

The murderer used a sharp narrow weapon, which was, unless I am deceived, the end of a foil, sharpened, and with the button broken off.

By wiping the weapon upon his victim's skirt, the assassin leaves us this indication.