'How long I shall be away,' he said, 'I cannot say; perhaps a month--perhaps two--perhaps three perhaps I may never return.
Here is a letter.

If I am not back on the day on which Monsieur Darzac is to appear before the Assize Court, have this letter opened and read to the court, after all the witnesses have been heard.

Arrange it with Monsieur Darzac's counsel.

Monsieur Darzac is innocent.

In this letter is written the name of the murderer; and--that is all I have to say.
I am leaving to get my proofs--for the irrefutable evidence of the murderer's guilt.' Our reporter departed.