Rest assured the law protects you. Already justice has begun its
work; two of the criminals are in its power, and we are on the track
of their accomplices."

"Of all the servants of the chateau," remarked M. Plantat, "there
remains not one who knew Sauvresy. The domestics have one by one
been replaced."

"No doubt," answered the doctor, "the sight of the old servants
would be disagreeable to Monsieur de Tremorel."

He was interrupted by the mayor, who re-entered, his eyes glowing,
his face animated, wiping his forehead.

"I have let the people know," said he, "the indecency of their
curiosity. They have all gone away. They were anxious to get at
Philippe Bertaud, the brigadier says; public opinion has a sharp
scent."

Hearing the door open, he turned, and found himself face to face
with a man whose features were scarcely visible, so profoundly did
he bow, his hat pressed against his breast.

"What do you wish?" sternly asked M. Courtois. "By what right have
you come in here?--Who are you?"

The man drew himself up.

"I am Monsieur Lecoq," he replied, with a gracious smile. "Monsieur
Lecoq of the detective force, sent by the prefect of police in reply