"Well, Monsieur Lecoq," asked he, "have you found any new traces?"

M. Lecoq was at that moment curiously examining a large portrait
of the Count Hector, which hung opposite the bed. Hearing M.
Plantat's question, he turned.

"I have found nothing decisive," answered he, "and I have found
nothing to refute my conjectures. But--"

He did not finish; perhaps he too, recoiled before his share of the
responsibility.

"What?" insisted M. Domini, sternly.

"I was going to say," resumed M. Lecoq, "that I am not yet satisfied.
I have my lantern and a candle in it; I only need a match--"

"Please preserve your decorum," interrupted the judge severely.

"Very well, then," continued M. Lecoq, in a tone too humble to be
serious, "I still hesitate. If the doctor, now, would kindly
proceed to examine the countess's body, he would do me a great
service."

"I was just going to ask the same favor, Doctor," said M. Domini.

The doctor answering, "Willingly," directed his steps toward the
door.

M. Lecoq caught him by the arm.