"
The new-comer took a card from his pocket and handed it to Victor,
who read on it: "Grimaudan, ex-inspector of the detective force.
Private business transacted." Victor shuddered as he said:
"You are connected with the police?"
"No, not now, but I have a liking for the business and I continue
to work at it in a manner more--profitable. From time to time I
strike upon a golden opportunity--such as your case presents."
"My case?"
"Yes, yours. I assure you it is a most promising affair, provided
you are inclined to be reasonable."
"But if I am not reasonable?"
"Oh! my good fellow, you are not in a position to refuse me
anything I may ask."
"What is it....you want?" stammered Victor, fearfully.
"Well, I will inform you in a few words. I am sent by Mademoiselle
de Sincleves, the heiress of the Countess d'Andillot."
"What for?"
"To recover the black pearl."
"Black pearl?"
"That you stole."
"But I haven't got it."
"You have it."
"If I had, then I would be the assassin."
"You are the assassin."
Danegre showed a forced smile.
"Fortunately for me, monsieur, the Assizecourt was not of your
opinion. The jury returned an unanimous verdict of acquittal.
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