At sight of his amateur detective, M.Daburon raised himself in his bed, saying, "There is something extraordinary! What have you discovered?
have you got a clue ?" "Better than that," answered the old fellow, smiling with pleasure.
"Speak quickly!" "I know the culprit!" Old Tabaret ought to have been satisfied; he certainly produced an effect.

The magistrate bounded in his bed.

"Already!" said he.

"Is it possible ?" "I have the honour to repeat to you, sir," resumed the old fellow, "that I know the author of the crime of La Jonchere." "And I," said M.Daburon, "I proclaim you the greatest of all detectives, past or future.

I shall certainly never hereafter undertake an investigation without your assistance." "You are too kind, sir.