CHAPTER II.
The two last depositions awakened in M.Daburon's mind some slight gleams of hope.

In the midst of darkness, the humblest rush-light acquires brilliancy.
"I will go at once to Bougival, sir, if you approve of this step," suggested Gevrol.
"Perhaps you would do well to wait a little," answered M.Daburon.

"This man was seen on Sunday morning; we will inquire into Widow Lerouge's movements on that day." Three neighbours were called.

They all declared that the widow had kept her bed all Sunday.

To one woman who, hearing she was unwell, had visited her, she said, "Ah! I had last night a terrible accident." Nobody at the time attached any significance to these words.
"The man with the rings in his ears becomes more and important," said the magistrate, when the woman had retired.