My explanation will be such that there will be no room for suspicion.

But suppose it should be known! O torturing doubt! What a desperate game! Wealth, honor, power, and the hand of Mary Van de Werve, against my life and the honor of my family! Triumph and happiness on the one hand; disgrace and death on the scaffold on the other! Suppose I go to the bailiff, and accuse Julio of the murder?
That would put me above suspicion.

But no; the search will be superficial, mere matter of form for the sake of appearances.

If Julio as arranged things properly, they will merely cast a glance into the cellar.

My presence will be a restraint upon the officers, and will prevent them from pushing their search so far as to imply a suspicion.