"Let us first of all consider the subject of the missing millions.
They were certainly in the escritoire when M. de Chalusse replaced
the vial; but now they are not to be found, so that the count must
have taken them away with him."
"That thought occurred to me also."
"Did the treasure form a large package?"
"Yes, it was large; but it could have been easily concealed under
the cloak which M. de Chalusse wore."
"Very good! What was the time when he left the house?"
"About five o'clock."
"When was he brought back?"
"At about half-past six."
"Where did the cabman pick him up?"
"Near the church of Notre Dame de Lorette, so he told me."
"Do you know the driver's number?"
"Casimir asked him for it, I believe."
Had any one inquired the reason of this semi-official examination,
the magistrate would have replied that Mademoiselle Marguerite's
interests alone influenced him in the course he was taking. This
was quite true; and yet, without being altogether conscious of the
fact, he was also impelled by another motive. This affair
interested, almost fascinated, him on account of its mysterious
surroundings, and influenced by the desire for arriving at the
truth which is inherent in every human heart, he was anxious to
solve the riddle. After a few moments' thoughtful silence, he
remarked: "So the point of departure in our investigation, if
there is an investigation, will be this: M.
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