He will present you with a magnificent _alibi_, an _alibi_ that can not be gainsayed.

He will show you that he passed the evening and the night of Tuesday with personages of the highest rank.

In short, his little machine will be so cleverly constructed, so nicely arranged, all its little wheels will play so well, that there will be nothing left for you but to open the door and usher him out with the most humble apologies.
The only means of securing conviction is to surprise the miscreant by a rapidity against which it is impossible he can be on his guard.

Fall upon him like a thunder-clap, arrest him as he wakes, drag him hither while yet pale with astonishment, and interrogate him at once.

Ah! I wish I were an investigating magistrate." Old Tabaret stopped short, frightened at the idea that he had been wanting in respect; but M.Daburon showed no sign of being offended.
"Proceed," said he, in a tone of encouragement, "proceed." "Suppose, then," continued the detective, "I am the investigating magistrate.