For I ought to confess, M.Daburon," added he, slightly embarrassed, "that I do not boast to my friends of my exploits; I even conceal them as carefully as possible.

They would perhaps shake hands with me less warmly did they know that Tirauclair and Tabaret were one and the same." Insensibly the crime became again the subject of conversation.

It was agreed, that, the first thing in the morning, M.Tabaret should install himself at Bougival.

He boasted that in eight days he should examine all the people round about.

On his side M.Daburon promised to keep him advised of the least evidence that transpired, and recall him, if by any chance he should procure the papers of Widow Lerouge.
"To you, M.Tabaret," said the magistrate in conclusion, "I shall be always at home.