The duty of the defence is to present a consistent and probable tale in opposition to an insufficient and improbable accusation.

To counsel who regard their client as innocent, an accusation is false.
The public examination of the four gentlemen sufficiently explained the matter in their favor.

So far all was well.

But the examination of Michu was more serious; there the real struggle began.

It was now clear to every one why Monsieur de Grandville had preferred to take charge of the servant's defence rather than that of his masters.
Michu admitted his threats against Marion; but denied that he had made them violently.