Yours is one of those cases which are inexplicable to all parties, to accused and accusers, to the law and to the public.

As for the Emperor, he has other fish to fry than to consider the case of these gentlemen, supposing even that they had not conspired against him.

But who the devil _is_ Malin's enemy?
and what has really been done with him ?" Bordin and Monsieur de Grandville looked at each other; they seemed in doubt as to Laurence's veracity.

This evident suspicion was the most cutting of all the many pangs the girl had suffered in the affair; and she turned upon the lawyers a look which effectually put an end to their distrust.
The next day the indictment was handed over to the defence, and the lawyers were then enabled to communicate with the prisoners.
Bordin informed the family that the six accused men were "well supported,"-- using a professional term.
"Monsieur de Grandville will defend Michu," said Bordin.
"Michu!" exclaimed the Marquis de Chargeboeuf, amazed at the change.
"He is the pivot of the affair--the danger lies there," replied the old lawyer.
"If he is more in danger than the others, I think that is just," cried Laurence.
"We see certain chances," said Monsieur de Grandville, "and we shall study them carefully.

If we are able to save these gentlemen it will be because Monsieur d'Hauteserre ordered Michu to repair one of the stone posts in the covered way, and also because a wolf has been seen in the forest; in a criminal court everything depends on discussions, and discussions often turn on trivial matters which then become of immense importance." Laurence sank into that inward dejection which humiliates the soul of all thoughtful and energetic persons when the uselessness of thought and action is made manifest to them.