Detective mystery novel "The Second Face of Arthur Robbin"

1. In criminal courts

In France and abroad, one has not forgotten the commotion caused by the hollow pillar incident. The treasure trove of the kings of France... The pillars have been transformed from Yasen-Ropin into castles! ...... Despite the order to remain silent, it is difficult to prevent some of the truth from leaking out. For weeks, Frefoseeburg had become a place of pilgrimage, and it was difficult for the troops to keep curious people at a distance, so the most absurd rumors were still scattered. People have not yet come to the point where some of the most famous paintings of the National Museum of Gollum are fake, and the original paintings have been collected here, behind the large walls of the rock pillars. The photograph also shows a text framed in red chalk on the wall of the highest hall: Yassen-Ropin bequeathed to France the entire wealth of the hollow pillars, the only condition being that all these treasures should be placed in the Louvre Museum, in the hall marked "Yassen-Ropin's Hall".

But the public was immediately divided into two factions: one believing that the Republic's reputation had grown while receiving generous gifts from famous adventurers; the other indignant at the idea that what had been so cleverly seized had been accepted in a grandiose manner.

But, soon, one question overwhelmed all the others: Why did Ropin give up his fortune? Did he give up his thrilling career? Has he found a safer, more unshakable place of seclusion elsewhere, where he has collected even more precious treasures? People talk about the treasure troves of the Knights Templar, about the basement of Monseguire... Imagination is heating up. A reporter came up with the idea of interviewing Isidore Botrelet. Botrele has disappeared. In this regard, it is a completely strange coincidence. Because at the time Garni Mar was on vacation. An opposition lawmaker questioned the Government in court; the Speaker of parliament replied very vaguely. No, the government did not negotiate with Yassen-Ropin. The secret of the pillar was revealed after a lengthy investigation... As for Ropin, he once again managed to escape. No one knows how he is now.

There is no hint of the tragedy that took place near the small countryside of Normandy. No one knows the truth about the tragic death of Raymond de Saint-Verand, and I have not yet decided whether, with the permission of my illustrious friend, will bring to light the tragedy that has just disturbed his life. Besides, I don't know where this hapless ghost is buried. One night, after changing his disguise, he walked away in agony. He said to me, "I'm leaving." I hope no one pays attention to me anymore. "He spoke to me a few words, and passion sometimes makes something easier to understand, such as his escape late at night, the secret burial of someone he loves very much... At that time, I felt the depth of the meaning expressed in the following idiom: "Touch the depths of human grief." ”

"It's all over." He added, "I don't die. Because I can't die. But I don't think I'll ever be cured. Goodbye. ”

He hugged me tightly and left, and the door to the street was closed again. Since then, there has been no more news. People continued to talk about the pillars, but current events provided all sorts of news for the first pages of the newspapers. The frenzied actions of a terrible gang, who left a note with "paws" written on it at the site of the crime, caused people to start talking about them again. Then there was the uneasiness generated by political issues. The dynastic rivalry raised fears of an all-out war. Next, there are several reports about hollow rock pillars. Experts, museum directors, and professors from the Schatt School took turns on the scene, busy building lists of bequests, estimating their value, and discussing their authenticity.

Two gendarmes stood guard at the entrance to the basement. Two other gendarmes guarded the treasure that had not yet been sent to Paris. The inadequacy of preventive measures has made this incident suddenly become a big news of renewed attention. So three men came to Frefflseeburg one night. "They look like upright citizens," as one of the gendarmes later reported. They showed the formalities, claimed to have been commissioned by the Minister of Arts who had given them a pass, and explained that they had to wait until night fell to avoid the curious strollers, because from sunrise to sunset, there were always many idle people staying on the cliffs. The unsuspecting gendarmes put them in, and as soon as they were attacked, their mouths were gagged and tied up. The other two gendarmes who remained in the pillar suffered the same fate. Then the move began. Raphael's Virgin of the Lamb of God was taken; André de Sartre's Portrait of Lukrogia Forde was stolen; Tiaan's Salome was missing; Botticelli's The Virgin and the Angels was robbed. Tantore's famous "The Fall of Icarus", Caravage's "Grand Canal", Carabersio's "Hawker before the Temple" and many other heirloom works have been transported and stolen, not to mention tapestries, ancient jewelry, figurines of Tanagla... In a word, it was a catastrophic looting!

The robbers carried it several times without hesitation. Several trucks came to a stop at the entrance to the castle, and the gendarmes heard the sound of their motors that had disappeared into the night. The action was so calm and bold that one really owes it to the gentleman on the beam himself, if one does not see the famous textual statement: Yassen-Ropin bequeathed to France... Another note is also framed in red chalk, and the pen is strong: paws apologize to the Republic, and express their most sincere thanks to Yasen-Ropin.

This caused outrage across the country: demonstrations to the police station ... We don't feel safe anymore... "A Plunder of National Assets," the headline of the most calm newspaper. Even more irritating, a reporter for Le Gauls made it possible to have the idea that Ropin would have a rival in the future. Isn't the agility they showed this time a testament to more rigorous training? In this regard, our legendary heroes often prove it to us.

"Paws!" This is a threat. It shows a swift record, a clever but terrifying violence. Moreover, it seems to refer to a group, a term used to avoid referring to the ranks of an organized and disciplined, rigorously trained and obedient leader with a vision and a strong means of action. The evidence is this: the trucks are waiting on the cliff. Of course, Ropin has his co-conspirators and countless admirers! But never before has a troop formation been able to carry out such an organized attack. The "paws" line, according to preliminary estimates, consisted of only seven people: three people responsible for carrying the captive items and four drivers. Because not far from the castle, the tracks left on the fragile ground clearly show that four cars once stopped. In addition, there is every reason to speculate that the leader of the "claw" himself was also present and directed the operation. Why didn't military force be used to combat this incredibly daring attack? This is where the chills come in!

The police station began to send officers to search around, setting up barricades, surveillance stations and borders, but to no avail. There is still a glimmer of hope, but it is difficult to say. It was impossible for Ropin not to accept the challenge of the "claw". He will not delay his stance. The public, day after day, awaited open letters full of passion, youthful energy and arrogance, for such letters had announced Ropin's attack more than once. And when a reporter for the Le Annción de France wrote an article titled "What Is He Waiting For?" After the article, the whole country became silent. The counterattack is coming, and it will be lightning fast and decisive!

I know, cough, this open letter is not going to come up. Ropin was actually silent. Where did he hide? Maybe he had traveled abroad; maybe he was like a wounded animal hiding in some remote castle. Disappointment is enormous, and it is likely to turn into anger. The songwriters are putting their skills to the fullest. Paris hummed a Pomboles song to express her complaints about poor Ropin. Then other more charismatic names: Briglio, Ratta, replaced him. People wonder if airplanes will be a weapon of the future. No one has forgotten the "claws" and this episode, but a tragedy that followed drew attention to this formidable gang.

Mr. Dupiy, an antique dealer on the street of Saint-Père, reported to the police station that two strangers had come to sell him various works of art and had shown him photographs of them. There was a particularly striking Tao Yong inside, and he recognized it at once. They are in the "Ropin Collection", which has been described in detail by the press. Inspector General Ganimar immediately set a trap. The two villains had already set a date with Mr. Dupiy, and in order to make a deal, they went to the appointment as scheduled, and they were welcomed by the police officers hiding behind the screen. Instead of surrendering, the robbers opened fire, resulting in a minor injury to Ganimaar's left arm. The officers took great pains to subdue them and then took them to the detention center.

But the next day, the antique dealer was killed in his shop. On his chest, a note the size of a business card pinned to his head read:

Paws don't like rappers

In this way, a few weeks after the theft of the pillar, the "claws" did not hesitate to carry out a new attack, and it was so cruel that public opinion was strongly stirred. People make all kinds of conjectures: "Claws" are in collusion with anarchists? Want people to see the terror from the killing of antique dealers? Maybe it's a new homicide, a secret organization similar to the mafia that has been rampant in Sicily in the past?

The pre-trial work was in the hands of Judge Formeli, and everyone knew his methodical way of thinking. **The officer confronted the two accused with the gendarmes who had been suddenly attacked on the rock pillar. They did not deny that the two robbers were members of the theft. But the judge, despite his harsh interrogation, got nothing. Thanks to the Central Archives, it records a tall man named Adolf Shominal, who appeared the most brutal. He has been sentenced several times to prison for theft. The other, Joseph Berjung, had served a year in prison for the crime of concealment. The two unspoken supporting characters are obviously two betrayers, because people can't imagine that the "claw" leader would be so stupid as to entrust the negotiation of the sale of jewelry and Tao Yong to the two of them. Their intelligence is very limited. Dizzy by the treasure they had stolen from the pillar, they tried it, but they secretly took what they thought was easy to do. Then they certainly want to flee in order to avoid the revenge of those they have betrayed, for the latter is absolutely unforgiving, as the murder of the antique dealer confirms.

The pre-trial did not last long, because the facts are indisputable. On the one hand, two robbers took part in the theft of the pillars; on the other hand, they shot at the chief of the police and wounded Inspector Garni Mar. They will be imprisoned for years or sent to places of hard labor.

When the criminal court opens, it is surrounded by people flocking to the court. The troops that maintained order were very strict in keeping curious people far away, and it was really difficult and difficult to enter the court to observe. Those who were able to enter were searched because the authorities feared that the "paws" would carry out certain acts of violence. President Martell was a resolute and astute official. Everyone knows that the trial will be severe. The Attorney General is Vincent Salazar, the youngest prosecutor general in France and the most severe. He asked the most. His tough opponents were Barrister Bello and Bar Grande, whose talents were already recognized. There is a sense that the debate is going to be very heated. Two insignificant supporting characters sit in the dock, and they have no hope.

On the first day of the trial, it was almost beneficial to the accused. The defender brought in a prominent psychiatrist, Dr. Winansky, and his report attracted great attention. The Doctor proved measuredly, but with great authority, that Shominar's intelligence was inferior to that of the average person and could not be fully responsible for his actions. As for Berjung, he was extremely susceptible to the influence of others and was coerced by others. Defense score.

"What do you think?"

I was shocked. A man sat politely at my desk. He had a small round hat on his knee. He was made up, with fluffy hair and a gray beard, much like a civilian official. Smiling friendly, he leaned over to me and said in a mysterious tone:

"I came in through the gate, and maybe that's exactly what you're worried about. I haven't forgotten how to use the little hook that unlocks. ”

"You?"

"Yes, I." Luo Ping replied.

So, through the disguise, I gradually recognized the familiar face, the glowing gaze, the cunning smile, but a little more obscure and submissive, which made my heart a little tight. He reached over the table full of newspapers and grabbed my hand.

"Don't bother, my dear friend. I was just passing by. ”

"But how are you?"

"What's wrong with me? ...... Indeed, I don't know myself. I'm still alive, and that's what it says, I'm like a cactus in the wilderness. ”

He closed his eyes. I could see the fine crow's feet at the corners of his eyes. In addition, painful and bitter wrinkles also began to appear between the nose and cheeks.

"Okay." He muttered, "Especially don't talk about the past." ”

He held up a pile of paper in front of me with his gloved hand.

"This incident is becoming more and more interesting to me. And it's not just because I'm mentally damaged... No. It's because of the guy hiding behind the 'paws'. ”

"Do you know him?"

"Not at all. But he terrified me... It piqued my interest again. In the past..."

He smiled miserably and continued:

"In the past... In previous lives... I've studied several events that I've never been able to explain. I believe today that they are all masterpieces of the same gang, and that it is this gang called 'Paws'. For example, the Castle of Meyerle, you must remember... A bold, calm and swift archetype... And the cruelty and the unnecessary cruelty that I don't understand... The manager seems to have been let loose... The same goes for receiving accounts... There are a few other things I can say, not counting the poor antique dealer. These men's attacks seemed to have been ordered. It was as if they were obeying a command. Why? ”

He pondered, twisted his hips, and leaned over at me, while I suddenly saw the strange glint in his eyes, which was only when he was trying to find a solution to a problem.

"Why? I'll tell you. This man needs a close-knit team to work with him to achieve a grand plan that I don't yet know, and the best link is joint and several responsibility in the crime. If there are cowards, cowards, cowards, then good, they will clean themselves up, like the two stupid guys who are now being judged. I think the 'paws' themselves have thrown off some suspicious elements. Then you only have to look at what people say about a team formed according to the Prussian model, that is, a unit that obeys the fingers and eyes, and you will understand! ”

He thoughtfully touched the edge of the table with his hand. I didn't want to disturb him, just watched carefully. In fact, there is a problem that has reached my lips. Who prompted him to choose this outfit? He was also speculating about my curiosity.

"You wonder why I'm in such ridiculous attire? Oh, it's simple. This awe-inspiring attire is perfect for a gentleman who accepts an invitation to enter and exit the halls of a criminal court. Who would suspect a retired veteran who is clearly on the side of order and the law? ...... I dare say that this interrogation will excite me. I would like to ask you to take a look at these two defendants. When others ask questions, when they are ready to answer 'yes' or 'no', they always look left and right with frightened eyes. Believe me, it was not the prosecutor who scared them, but the other person. This other man may be in this hall..."

"Impossible!"

"I'm sure. I finally complained about the two scoundrels coming. How can they regret wavering before the temptation of profit! ”

"If you could finally point out this person you call another person, what else would you have to do?"

Luo Ping clenched his fists, then straightened up in his chair and flattened his shoulders.

"But there was no way I could recognize him. He could be anyone. He did, just like me. ”

He smiled lightly, which reminded me of The Ropin of yesteryear.

"It's funny to think about. He and I, wandering among the crowds of the courthouse, looked for each other as if we were playing hide-and-seek. Is Ropin the big man with asthma? Is the boss of the 'paw' the clumsy and obtuse person who keeps rubbing his forehead? ...... A few times, I felt like someone was watching me from behind my back, and I was going to fight psychologically not to turn around. On his side, I'm sure he will feel the same way. In the circumstances, it was exciting! Finally, after thinking about it... I don't want to live with myself. The government doesn't know how to protect the treasure I gave it. It deserves it! Let it figure out its own way to deal with the 'claw'! ”

"Attention, my dear friend." He said, "You look at the leader of the gang, the enemy you want to defeat. As you should think, he is very afraid of you. You do not have the character to easily forgive others for offending your reputation. What do you think? ...... In your place, I doubt it. ”

"Cough! How much am I going to lose? ”

"I don't like to hear you say these things. You're young, what the hell! Life has preserved many surprises for you. Don't tell me you want to live on interest in the future. I wouldn't believe it. Adventure will find you. ”

"Ha, then let it come sooner, because I want to leave when the verdict is over." Pierre-Lotie gave me the idea to visit Japan. ”

He stood up and looked around leisurely.

"Nothing has changed." He said, "Everything is so calm. I want to change places with you! I remembered again..."

He stopped and made a gesture as if he were going to drive away a fly.

"No... I don't want anything... Louis Valmera is dead, and so is he... I am now Lamar de Limego... This or another name has only such a big meaning... I'll see you again before I go. ”

I accompanied him all the way to the door. He turned and bowed to me, he wanted to be witty, and then he went away in the night.

The next day, as soon as the door opened, Luo Ping sat down in the hall of the courtroom. This is the day of prosecution, defence and sentencing. The mood was agitated and noisy, and the president threatened to let the court sit still if it did not return immediately. The promise had been passed on to the Ministry of Security. It was immediately understood that Vincent Salazar had aimed at the leader of the "claws" through the two useless men who were sitting there bent over. He wants to point out their depravity, their sins, and the sins they eventually fall into.

“...... Well, gentlemen of the jury. The seducer who promised them wealth but demanded them to give up their **** and soul suddenly said, "They have become instruments of crime." It's just that the tool will always have the fingerprints of the person who used it. Balzac's pen is revered, and Paganini's violin also expresses the style of its owner. On the contrary, La Viak's dagger is more frightening than an ordinary knife. The evil thoughts of criminals leave a certain evil in themselves, making them evil people. Moreover, these two people are double criminals. Once to fulfill the will of the person who used them; the other was to use violence without authorization. They are the arms of the 'claws'. They are 'paws'! ”

What followed was an impressive moment of tranquility. But I also heard someone here or there whispering from time to time, in private. The prosecutor pointed to the defendant and kept expounding his arguments, his statement as heavy as a shovel of dirt that had landed on a coffin. The "Claw" killed the unfortunate antique dealer, and since Shominar and Berjung belonged to the "Claw", they were equally responsible for the crime...

"Paws"! ...... The word came up again and again, so unlucky, that everyone began to understand that these two people were going to die. They atone for their leaders. So when the prosecutor pronounced the death sentence, no one was surprised.

The lawyers took turns trying to evoke the jury's mercy, but in vain; with the help of Dr. Winansky's diagnosis, they tried to prove that their clients acted without understanding the gravity of what they had done. Obviously, the public is no longer listening to them. When Shominar's defenders asked the people who had helped the "claws" to be compared in some respects with Arthur-Ropin, a commotion broke out and shouts of protest rang out. Fists were also waved in the air. Luo Ping's neighbors were all dying of anger.

"It's a shame!" He tiptoed up and shouted. He also shouted, "Long live Luo Ping!" ”

Two guards hurried to him and took him out, while the president slowly quieted the courtroom. The defense was over, the jury withdrew for consultation, and the people who attended the hearing were now scattered in the corridor.

Luo Ping was walking there, and his sad thoughts made him unable to calm down for a long time. The demonstrations that have just taken place are beneficial to him, spontaneous and full of trust. It was expressed in a touching way that the kindness of the people of Paris to him made him feel guilty. Does he have the right to shut up because of pain? Does he have the right to let the "claws" run rampant because of his own damage? At any other time, he will happily meet the challenge! Because he was so happy to make the bandits spit out the stolen goods that they had swallowed! But for himself, he once again had to face the reality: he didn't want to be Yassen-Ropin anymore. He didn't believe his skin anymore. Plus: he was scared too. He felt that he no longer possessed the wealth of talent, physical strength and intelligence that often enabled him to turn things around in emergencies. If the "claw" came to attack him, he thought it was unlikely, and he might have a hard time dodging the attack. He was like a recovering patient hanging between life and death, and he was expecting only one thing: to keep him quiet. It was a mistake that he came to this trial, and it evoked so many memories. He shouldn't have thought, he shouldn't have let the old wound that was bleeding all the time infect. He should imprison himself forever in an ascetic. He should have exploded his brain too!

The crowd returned to the hall, eagerly awaiting the verdict. "I don't care about that!" Ropin was thinking. He was alone for a long time leaning on a pillar. He heard applause in the distance, and then saw a sudden flow of people pouring out of the gate. He stopped a woman whose face had turned red and her hair was disheveled.

"How's it going?"

She put her hand on the back of her neck and made a cutter on the guillotine.

"Two people." She said, "They deserve it!" ”

Second, the revenge of the claws

Raoul de Limeggi had dinner at a restaurant near the courthouse. As he slowly tasted the seasoned fish, because he had always been a gourmet, he couldn't help but think of the magical leader of "Paws". According to his valuable experience, which he had gained in the contest with Ganimaar and Sherlock Holmes, he tried to stand in the other's position, but lazily tried it out, only to persist for a while and then became irritable. This man must have been tormented by passion, but what was his purpose? Disrupt? The odds are extremely small. The Lavashol people are usually isolated people. Illustrative is the words written on the walls of the pillars: "'Paw' apologizes to the Republic and expresses his sincere thanks to Yasen-Ropin." "First of all, the tone is sarcastic and self-exalted. It was the same as Ropin's tone. Moreover, the theft, which was carried out just under the nose of the authorities, was provocative. All this is happening, like the leader of the "claws" announcing to people: "The real Luopin is me." And I, I would not be so foolish as to give such a valuable gift to the Republic. "Why, then, is there violence and sin? ...... Perhaps it is this that shows that a man who wants to be truly Arthur-Ropin has no right to have a dual personality: a man who desperately seeks money and a man who is selfless; a man who breaks the law and a man who obeys the law...

"He should have remembered it in his head," Thought Topin, "how do I use my time?" New methods must be adopted to replace ... Yes, that's it... His mysterious plan is to take my place... However, this time, there is no emotional constraint at all, do not want beautiful behavior, do not even care about reputation... The old jianghu drove away the swordsman! How come I didn't find out earlier? It's obvious, dammit! My little Luo Ping, you can only stand on the side! You're just a skinny guy now, a chicken in the soup. Break free of these! Like a modern-day hero, move forward with a bomb in your hand. Let them hate me, but they are afraid of me, as the poets say. "Dude, checkout."

Raoul de Rimeggi lit a cigar. He felt he could see more clearly. Since the comforting heat emanated from Tramina's veins, it occurred to him that it must be interesting for the woman in the cloakroom to hand him his hat and cane for a moment as he would be a daunting adversary. He looked at the starry sky and decided to walk back to his accommodation. It was a very small, ordinary inn, on Rue Alfred de Vinnie, on the edge of parc Monceau, where he had been living for several months. An hour's walk was good for his health.

He crossed the Seine and continued his monologue.

"Before, my **** was a command to act. I would love to have this meeting now, and soon something will happen that will gradually bring me before him. You, Raoul, you don't know this moment yet, or know very little! I am a magician, and things are subject to my will. Don't forget that I discovered the rock pillar! Then a young woman appeared... I showed her my talent. My talent went with her... Dear Raoul, go to sleep, obedient! It's almost ten o'clock. Tonight, we are squandering! ......”

When he was slammed over by a breathless man, he was preparing to turn onto Miliro Street. The collision was so heavy that both men rolled to the ground. Ropin was the first to stand up, grabbed the uncultured man, and pressed him to his feet.

"I didn't mean it, and I don't know who's arresting me..."

Illuminated by the streetlights at the intersection, he saw a very young face with a great deal of pain on it.

"Are you injured?"

The young man did not answer. He was listening to the approaching sound of running.

"Release me!"

He struggled a little, broke free, and then limped on. At the same time, two patrol officers appeared, who hesitated for a moment to see the escapees running across the Russa lusda el Boulevard towards Parc Monceau. They chased after him.

"The unlucky man," Thought Topin, "he certainly can't escape." ”

The injured had run into the park, fell at the foot of a chestnut tree, then got up and hid in a cluster of bushes. The two patrol officers stopped and discussed. "Maybe this guy has a weapon?" Luo Ping rubbed his shoulder that had been contused when he fell, and quickly thought about it... Must be a thief... Just so young, so inexperienced... It's a shame to have someone lock him up. They will torture him... No...... Can't do that, Lisette...

Ropin returned to his old reaction. He slipped into the park lightly, and by this time the patrol had begun to search carefully. The garden was dark, barely able to distinguish between the path and the turf, and the small trees were all immersed in thick darkness. Ropin, who often walked in this park, was well aware of the winding paths. He spun around in swift motions and came near the place where he had seen the escapees hiding. Very nice job, Ropin. The man was right in front of him, standing against a chestnut tree, gasping for breath. He was exhausted, like a martyr on the verge of righteousness.

"Your cap, San Sebastian!" Don't talk! ”

Luo Ping threw away his cane, grabbed the small round hat in his hand, and put on the duck tongue hat.

"Don't move. Just wait for me here. ”

Patrol officers are nearby. They suddenly noticed a dot walking in front of them, and it was limping. They rushed over, confident that they were going to catch the bad guy, but the man escaped several times in quick succession when he was only a few meters away, because he could always take advantage of some uneven terrain. Little by little, however, he turned toward the side of the park, which was a normal hotel. Ropin, who was looking for pleasure, made a few sharp turns to make sure he was at a distance from the people behind him, then pulled out his key and opened the fenced door of the private garden in front of his house. He sneaked into the inn, went up to the second floor, took off his duck-tongue hat, threw it into a closet, and then took off his suit and changed into his pajamas. It all went very quickly because he was afraid that something would happen. Indeed, the doorbell rang. He brushed his hair with his fingers, and opened a slit in the window to show the look of a gentleman who had been awakened in his sleep.

"What?"

Two patrol officers standing in front of the fence saluted at the same time.

"Someone just ran into your house." The man who seemed to have a military rank explained, "We found him in the garden." ”

"I'll come down." Robin said, "Wait until I put on my shoes." ”

He whistled softly, and at this moment, he felt particularly relieved. He went to open the door for the two men who were trailing him, asked them to examine the garden, and asked them to look at the neighboring garden. In the end he even gave them all the way to the door.

"Yes, yes, don't mind. It's a small thing. In order to protect the interests of good people, you are also hard enough. Unfortunately the robber ran away. ”

"We'll catch him everywhere we go." The little man said.

"Surely you saw him here?"

"Absolutely. He wore a duck-tongue hat and was limping. You can't make a mistake. ”

"I'm sorry, gentlemen. Can I give you something to cool off? You've traveled a lot... You're tired too..."

They hesitated.

"No." The head said, "We still have to go back over there... Others will definitely look for us. ”

"Huh? What the hell is going on? ”

"Something more serious... We are on patrol. Usually, the neighborhood is more peaceful... We found it on Rue Gusail, just around the corner of Rue Monceau, where two cars were parked next to each other. Everything happened so fast at the time. The driver of the second car was calling for help. We ran. As a result, the first car jerked up, leaving the man in the duck-tongue hat on the sidewalk, and he tried to climb the pedal of the car, but finally had to give up. The car slammed desperately. The driver of another car that didn't start yelled at us, "They just kidnapped my hostess..."

"Then," said Ropin, "isn't it more important to chase after the hijacked car?" ...... You have a car again, and you even have a driver. ”

"We'll never be able to catch up with it. It's a high-power mercedes-Benz. It had already run away. But we can grab the guy who pulls out his leg and runs... yes! We're out of luck. I couldn't figure out how he could get away with us! ”

"Naturally, you didn't expect to confirm the identity of that person, the person who was kidnapped?"

"Please forgive me." The second ranger said, "We are sure that we recognize Mr. Vincent Salazar's old convertible car." ”

Luo Ping was taken aback.

"What? ...... Prosecutor General of the Republic? ”

"Yes. He lived on Gussell Street, the place where the accident occurred. We often saw his car parked right in front of his mansion. ”

"Well, gentlemen, hurry up and run... They definitely need you over there... I'll go back tomorrow and ask for news. I am very familiar with Prosecutor Sarazah. In a word, people don't feel safe anymore. ”

He shook his head after seeing the two patrolmen disappear in the garden. "Oh, what the hell am I doing!" ...... A hijacking, nothing more... Well, damn it! If Madame Saraza is very beautiful, why is it impossible? Then she could have been hijacked and used a Mercedes car! I don't think her husband should be a joker! ...... But the truth is, Sarazza..."

Raoul almost knocked himself on the head. worst! This was the Prosecutor General of the Criminal Court, and he was targeted: he insisted on sentencing Chauminal and Berjung to death! This matter came to the door today, and it is so cruel. He hurriedly took off his pajamas and brought a pistol with him. Now it's time for the two of us to play, Sebastian! ...... He was back in the park, and the injured man was no longer where he had been. Luo Ping searched the neighborhood, hoping to at least retrieve his small round hat. The result was in vain! He retrieved only his own cane, and thankfully, kept the villain's cap. Perhaps, with the help of this duck-tongue hat, he can find a way? He folded back worriedly. He never believed in coincidence, so he increasingly believed that there was some kind of close connection between the trial that had just been completed and the robbery of the Attorney General's wife. If it was really his wife... But his intuition told him that the patrol officers were not mistaken. In this way, fate put in his hands an important, perhaps crucial, physical evidence...

He went straight to the closet, took out his duck-tongue hat, and turned it over. On the leather he found two engraved letters: "s" and "g", on the small diamond-shaped leather on the clip, printed in gold: Leon - Hat Merchant - Rufroy Avenue - Paris.

That's great! It's so easy! How tempting is the opportunity to start again. Ropin has always been working on the duck tongue cap. It is gray and the cloth is very good. “s”、“g”。 He randomly tried famous words and surnames. He went into his bedroom and stood in front of the fireplace with a picture of Raymond de Saint-Veyron. He stared at it for a long time.

"Should I? ...... No? ...... In the end no, Raymond, I'm not going to this hat dealer... I'm going to control myself. One event drives another... I will never be able to pause. Life has stuck to me again, and I have given up this adventurous life for you! ...'s', 'g', like Simon... Or Sebastian. Who knows, maybe I happened to be joking. Is this less so! Sorry, Raymond. If you know what loneliness is,...... Day after day, they were similar, all mixed together in a gray haze. I have to pretend to be interested! ...... Well, you see, I threw it into this drawer. I don't touch it anymore. First of all, 's', 'g', it means nothing. Good night, Raymond..."

The next day, halfway through the afternoon, Raoul de Limeggi came to the Rufroy Avenue. He changed his clothes, removed his beard, and wore a pair of light-colored trousers and a belted tunic that looked like an athlete. He wasn't wearing a hat. The Leon Hat Shop is located not far from the Grevan Museum. He walked in, holding a duck-tongue hat with the letters "s" and "g" in his hand, and pretended to talk to a salesman: the first day, while he was sitting in a café in Montmartre reading a newspaper, a daredevil who was also drinking coffee made a mistake and left it to him.

"Of course I want to get out of my one, right?" You will say to me: duck tongue hat for duck tongue hat... Especially this one is of good quality and fits my size. However, I still prefer my one... Since the hat was sold from you, I think you might be able to get it back for me..."

"Of course." The salesman said, "'s', 'g'... Just this morning this gentleman brought us a small round hat, measured the size of the head and told him the first letter of his name..."

He went into a small room inside the store and quickly pulled out a small round hat that Raoul recognized at a glance. That's exactly what he is, of course! This person does not miss the small benefits, especially not lack of courage and guts!

"This hat is not mine, please note. But since he is a customer, he should come back today... I hope you can give me his cap, I'll give it back to him myself, and then ask him back..."

"Unfortunately, I had to say goodbye..."

Raoul de Limeggi weighed it up, walked over to a mirror, and put the cap on his head. He looked head-on, sideways, almost every direction was illuminated...

"Very suitable." The salesman said.

"I think so too. Let's not complicate matters. Well, I'm willing to leave it behind. Your customers didn't lose in this exchange either. I deserve to be unlucky. I'm sorry to bother you uselessly. Thanks again... You don't need to mention that I came. ”

Raoul de Limeggi walked out of the hat shop and looked at the table below. five o'clock. It may be a long wait. He put the cap in his pocket, out of caution. Last night I just saw the figure of a man with a big beard, a stranger who would never have recognized him. He wandered the sidewalk for long periods, stopping to browse in front of the glass vitrines of a "Paris souvenir" shop, a witty and deceitful business. He paused in front of the copperplate engravings on display, then turned back. The posters of the Grevan Museum have always captivated him. They introduced speakers of the Farier Parliament, Moné-Sully, Oedipus, Briglio... But he was always keeping an eye on the door of the hat shop. Tired of walking, he walked into the "Prince's Café" at the corner of the street and sat down on the side of the avenue next to the glass window. This is an ideal point of view.

At six o'clock, the newspapermons poured out of the rue Montmartre and scattered on the avenue. They waved a newspaper with a horizontal bar under the headline and shouted, "The News... special...... Buy the Newspaper..."

One of them walked into the café. Raoul made a gesture. Then he opened the newspaper, which still smelled of ink.

The bandits had abducted Madame Salazar in a car, the wife of the Attorney General of the Republic, who read quickly and looked from time to time at the hat shop

The tragedy had just sown a sense of frustration in the courthouse. Mrs. Crestiana Salaza, the wife of the young and talented Prosecutor general of the Republic, was abducted under incredible circumstances. The unfortunate man returned to his apartment on Gussell Street after dinner at his mother's house. It was about ten o'clock in the evening. Mrs. Sarazza's driver, Paul Croisser, found a high-powered car parked almost opposite the apartment, so why was he upset? Since the powerful people have a lot of cars in this district. Just then, the attack took place, it lasted only a few seconds, and it was very neatly done.

Paul Croisser, who had just opened the door for Madame Sarazza, was pushed into the car by the elbow of a man, most likely hiding in the thick wall of the gate through which the car could be passed, and two other bandits appeared, and they put up the poor man's arm and forced her into the Mercedes-Benz car parked there without giving her time to shout. Absolutely by chance, two patrol officers who were patrolling appeared at the scene of the attack and kidnapping at this time. Hearing Paul Croiser's alarm shouts, they tried to intervene, which accelerated the event. The robbers immediately started the car, leaving the robbers who attacked the driver on the sidewalk. The robber — whose impression was very vague — almost fell into the hands of the patrol as he tried to board the pedals of the Already Activated Mercedes-Benz, only to lose his balance and roll down the sidewalk. He must have hurt a leg because he was limping away. He soon disappeared into the then-uninhabited Parc Monceau. Patrol officers were unable to find him there. Mr. Saraza, who was at the house of one of his official friends that night, was immediately informed, and he shouted, "The 'paws' did it!" Thus, the idea of revenge was immediately accepted. (See the latest message bar.) ）

Raoul de Rimeggi's curiosity to learn more was so great that he turned the newspaper to the specified number of pages. Same big word title:

The "claws" are retaliating

The body of Lady Sarazah was found

At eight o'clock this morning, the workers who went to work found the body of a woman of about forty years old in a ditch on the side of the woods of Boulogne on the rue Ottojemen. The deceased was hit in the head by a bullet. An investigation, led by the highly accomplished Sheriff Legal, was immediately launched and it was soon determined that the deceased was Madame Christiana-Sarazza. Is this a terrorist plot to kill the prosecutor's wife? People were skeptical because they could have executed their victims at will on Gussell Street. Do they want to blackmail officials more? Because people know he's very rich. Maybe they want to force him to resign, punishing him for occupying a position that is too harsh for thieves? But it is highly likely that people will guess that the criminals are ready to inflict the harshest cruelty on the women they capture. No doubt she had bravely tried to escape, only to be killed.

Like the body of an antique dealer, people removed a note nailed with a large head to Madame Sarazza's coat, which was the size of a business card: "Paws like to clear the account by himself." ”

This well-known incident, the gravity of which was well known, had a great repercussion, and given his status as Prosecutor General sarza, his illustrious career had added luster to the court, and he had learned of the horror with admirable composure. May he receive our most revered greetings and condolences.

Raoul thoughtfully folded up the newspaper. That's how the "claw" makes people understand its revenge. It does not allow the tribunal to punish these two rebels on their behalf. But there is no doubt that it also wants to prove that the Prosecutor-General, by virtue of his duties, has become its enemy and that it must attack him, for he speaks with popular consciousness. The "claw" is placed on moral ethics and law. So, who is this dangerous person who leads the "claw"?

Raoul now regrets saving "s, g" at that time. But if the police caught him, would something change? "s, g" will not confess anything. Did Shominal say anything? Did Berjung say anything? None. Fear sealed their mouths. Although they are protected by lawyers, sentries and walls. But they were well aware of the cruelty of their masters. The gang is like a seven-headed snake. Removing one of its limbs does not weaken its toxicity in the slightest, and its head must be cut off. The appropriate way to do this is to get in touch with the stranger in The Parc Monceau right away.

"Be careful," Raoul thought, "I'll just wrap myself up like this!" I feel good under the packaging of Limeji! No hassles. Maybe not much? What the! I've slowly become a commoner, like everyone else. I read the newspaper calmly. Wouldn't it be nice that the waiter treated me like a gentleman with a date and the other party didn't show up? Why am I excited, if I haven't checked out yet! Enough, Ropin. Get out of the way, you devil! ”

He stared at the passage tightly. Although he demanded himself to be steady and cautious very harshly, and warned himself to set aside the jokes that he had long admired, he was still irritated by calm anger. He got excited when he finally saw "s, g" walking toward the hat shop. He paid the bill and hurried out. When he walked up to the stranger, he was taken aback. He realized that the man he was dealing with was too young. Only twenty-three or four years old. Never more. But he was so strong and powerful that it was difficult for the patrol officers to catch him easily. He had short hair and a shaved beard. He was a bit limp. His gray suit was really going to be seriously scalded. He walked into the hat shop.

Ropin hesitated. Does he need to keep an eye on it, and if he still has to meet with other bad guys? Maybe he'll go straight back to his own home. Once upon a time, when Ropin had a few loyal assistants, he would have placed twenty-four hours of surveillance around the "s and g." Now, he was alone and needed to change his approach. So he decided to go out on his own, which had made him a great success.

The "s, g" came out, wearing a small round hat on his head, which made him look as funny as if he were wearing a holiday costume. He looked around hesitantly.

"Hell yes!" Luo Ping was thinking, "The salesman didn't listen to the greeting. He told him that someone had brought a cap and then took it again... Now, he was under his watch. He was scared. He searched around with his eyes for the figure he had met in the park... Is it the gentleman over there, the one who steps like a little shopkeeper? Oh no, my good man, look for it again! It's not the one, it's like a vulgar street runner... Look a little closer... Right in front of you... I'm wearing your duck-tongue hat on my head. That's right! You recognize it, this time! What a marvel, my little ancestor! Hey, it's too late to run away! ”

Luo Ping took two steps and stepped forward to grab the young man's arm.

"Hello, Sebastian!"

"You... Do you know my name? ”

"How? Are you really called Sebastian? It's funny. ”

Luo Ping burst out laughing.

"I'm still skeptical, you think. I saw it in a crystal ball. Don't look like this, Sebastian... Sebastian what? ”

"Sebastian Grutz."

"It was good. I, Raoul... That's it. I'm a friend, Sebastian. Didn't I promise you last night? Well, give you a duck-tongue hat... Give me back the little round hat. Without it, I didn't seem to be wearing any clothes. ”

"Please forgive me." Sebastian said, "I couldn't wait for you... I can't leave your hat there either. ”

"I understand. You want to keep it as a memento. ”

They changed their hats, and Sebastian couldn't help but laugh again. Looking up close, he had a baby face, his eyes shining with excitement and close friendliness. Ropin thought of Gilbert-Meggie. Did he accept the bad influences like Gilbe? For do not forget that he was involved in the kidnapping of the Prosecutor General's wife. He belonged to the "Claw" gang, despite the honesty in his pretty eyes. He watched, amazed with a friendly affection, and the stranger behaved so peculiarly, as if he had come to help him.

"What the hell are you?" he asked.

"You see... Let me think about it... I often forget. Today? ...... Yes, it's Raoul... Mr. Raoul... All right, little slacker, don't worry anymore. I am, if you will, a... Colleagues. Are you confident about that? Always excited? ...... Well, I'll give you a pickle of sauerkraut, and I conceded defeat, in order to better recognize... Go to the Cardinal's Restaurant, is that okay? ”

They stood on a quiet street corner.

"Why are you trying to save me?" Sebastian asked.

"It's a quirk, and for me... There is no need, thank you for that. People in the same boat should help each other, right? ”

"You didn't get into too much trouble to get rid of them, did you?"

"What do you think?" I'm not old enough to get rheumatism. ”

"You belong to... belong......? ”

Luo Ping smiled.

"Nope. I'll go it alone. Not for the sake of heaven not for the Lord! There is no account to be cleared. Not like you. I think you really have to wash your brain. ”

Sebastian blushed as he thought intently about these words.

"In the end," Ropin went on, "what was the result of yesterday's action?" ...... A success or a failure? ”

"I don't know."

"Okay. You don't want to say. It's your business. ”

"No, it's not. Absolutely not. I don't know anything, it's true. We have commands. We're only responsible for execution, that's it. What he needs is the wife of the prosecutor general. ”

"But they don't explain why to you!" They don't tell you anything. They throw you at prey. Catch it, my good dog! ”

Sebastian crumpled the scarf into a ball and made it look like he was going to get up. Ropin kept him.

"Don't get angry, little one... I touched the sensitive place with my hand, hmm! Admit that you're not very happy with yourself. You don't like blood. Neither do I! I would like people to be able to successfully complete any action and keep their hands clean. ”

"I'd love to have him hear what you have to say." Sebastian said.

"Who?"

"He."

"Note that I am not against violence. Some situations require quick action and proactive action. But striking is not the same as killing. ”

Sebastian listened so intently that he forgot to eat.

"Yes." He finally echoed, "Yes, it is precisely this that needs to be known to him. I've tried, but he won't listen to me. ”

"You're the hairy guy in the team." Ropin said in a joking tone.

"Oh, don't laugh. In front of him, you will be as obedient as everyone else. ”

"Then we'll have to take a look."

"It's already seen."

Sebastian thought for a long time. He did not suspect that Monsieur Raoul was studying him like an open book.

"All right, young man." Ropin was thinking, "Come on! You already have a gratifying idea. Take a recruit to the boss so that he can forget his clumsiness. Let's do it... Let's go...... I'll take it. That's exactly what I'm asking for. ”

Sebastian continued to ask:

"You must have talked to me about something you were involved in, right?"

"Definitely."

"How many interesting things have you done?"

"Oh my God, I have my little winning list. I am particularly good at jewelry and calligraphy. ”

"Never been caught? Haven't been sentenced? ”

"Never has it been."

"Would you like to meet the leader?"

"Of course I do!"

"But he, I don't know if he wants to..."

"He would certainly be willing, if you tell him I'm an artist, will do some magic, bragging that he can hollow out his goals and never cause him trouble... Because he won't believe you. Because he himself wants to see it with his own eyes. ”

"You don't care if you face a terrible and dangerous person, right? Because it was never possible to predict his reaction. ”

"What danger will I have?"

"I don't know. But I would love to have you meet him and work for him. You may succeed in imposing your method on... There are people like me among us... Fear of being punished for something. Soon, we'll all gamble with our heads, like Shominal, like Berjung. ”

Sebastian pushed aside the plate in front of him and stared at Monsieur Raoul.

"How's it going? Give it a try? ”

"If you feel the attack, why not?"

"I don't vouch for anything from you. Can you give me an address where I can find you 7 or a phone number? ”

"No, I'm sorry. But I dare to assert that your boss must have appreciated my caution. ”

"Well... Come back tomorrow. Say good here... four o'clock...... If you don't see me tomorrow, the day after tomorrow, or the days to come, it's not going to work. ”

"No." Ropin said, "I'll only give your boss twenty-four hours, not more than a minute." I'm not at the mercy of others. ”

He did not know that Luo Ping spoke with such momentum precisely to make the other party's will yield and unify to remove all obstacles. Sebastian felt the effects of this power.

"Very well," he said, "I'll tell him." Thank you for this sumptuous dinner. ”

He held out his hand. Ropin shook his hand. Just as he was about to leave, Luo Ping stopped him again.

"Sebastian... You really can't change it. Why are you still wearing my hat?" ”

"Oh! I'm sorry. The young man said cautiously, "I was touched by our conversation. I don't even know where my head was born. ”

"Your head was born under my little round hat... Twenty-four hours, don't forget... Man, here's a brandy. ”

Third, Raoul is at work

The next day, Raoul de Rimage chose another suit: a dark suit with high buttons and a pearl pin pinned to the belt. Then he calmly walked toward the Cardinal's restaurant.

"The 'claw' leader," he thought, "would never be stupid enough to come and greet me in person." If he was going to see me, he would let Sebastian take me there. God knows where this inviolable cave is. When he got there, he would ask about my resume as he pleased: I can't be too slippery. Integrity but adaptability! ...... And then what! I couldn't make any decisions. I was free to call off a taxi and go for a walk in the forest... Now I go to the appointment because I am willing to go, and it makes me happy. I'm still free to choose whether to continue or give up! I'm playing with fire, got it! But I don't want to burn my fingers! ”

However, he should admit his lack of sincerity. There was no need to prevaricate, he had already made up his mind. It was a decision he made alone, after he got dressed, walked through his private garden, and then the Parc Monceau.

"Well," he thought with a certain discomfort, "I'm going to go all the way." Because I am a righteous citizen, now is the best time to destroy this evil gang. Once I understood its crimes, I handed it over to the good guy Gani Mar. That's my real motivation. I'm not going to get annoyed that someone else ends up dueling with 'paws'. ”

He had now come to Auber Street, and as he got closer and closer to the main street, he slowed down. No! His real motives were something else, and he himself knew it very well. The power that pushed him forward was his curiosity. Want to know! At all costs, wondering about the man hiding behind this evil group with the ridiculous name "Claws.". I want to seriously evaluate the man who desperately wants to harm Yasen-Ropin! And then what? Fortunately, there is still time to think.

Raoul de Limeggi walked into the Cardinal's restaurant. It's four o'clock ten. Sebastian waited for him at the end of the hall, but not alone. Beside him stood a scruffy man, though he had dressed carefully. Sebastian hurriedly stood up. The other man just nodded.

"No need to introduce." Sebastian said.

"I'm just an ordinary observer." The man added, "Sebastian has said a lot of nice things about you to us, but people know his temper. Please sit down. ”

The sound is very blunt.

"Don't forget," Raoul thought, "be upright but be spontaneous!" ”

He sat down and asked for a cup of English milk tea.

"I listen to you." He said.

Sebastian spoke with obvious discomfort.

"I said it all," he explained, "what you did when I was going to be caught... And our conversation... Yesterday...... Your secret..."

Another was still examining Raoul. He was tall and thin, with a large, conspicuous nose, a curly beard that covered half of his mouth, two long hands with lung disease, and a sluggish gaze, appearing restless and difficult to deal with.

"A greedy, fierce fellow." Raoul was thinking, "But definitely not the leader. Surely one of his lieutenants. ”

"Yes." He seemed natural and said, "We've talked, Sebastian and I. The 'claws' are not bad. His approach may be a little too simple, but the results are there. I'm not criticizing, please note. I have no right to do so. I'm just wondering if it's possible to achieve the same effect at less cost. ”

The other man smiled contemptuously, not having thought to cover it up at all.

"Would you do a better job?" he asked.

"Possibly!"

"Well," said the greedy and fierce fellow, "don't waste your time. Showdown. First of all, what have you done so far that is as compelling as this? ”

"All right. Jewelry stores on Royal Street, last year... This is me...... Morren's City Credit Bank... likewise...... I only patronize the smallest things, but I keep doing them... I always have something to do... Remember, at this time, I am ready to do some work at the mansion of Henry-Martin Street, and I can assure you..."

"It was good." Another person interrupted, "I'm here to confirm your identity, but I don't think it's that glorious." I want to see for myself your work..."

"It's simple. Come with me. The banker on Henry Martin Street had been away from home for eight days. We can do it when you want... Even if it's just tonight. ”

The greedy and fierce guy, though calm, was also quite surprised.

"Everything is ready." Raoul continued, "I have the necessary tools. It's a kid trick. Just keep an eye on the old employer of the house. I suggest putting him to sleep, there is no need to be violent to him. ”

"It's so kind." The fierce guy sneered and said, "Let's see... Let's see... If he moves, I'll take care of him... Where are you going to let us meet? ”

"Say it's in front of the Trocadero Theater. Eleven o'clock, can I? ”

"We can."

"I'll repeat it to you, and I'll have everything ready. You don't have to ask for trouble. Just wear gloves. I greet you, gentlemen. ”

Raoul resigned, still satisfied with the results he had produced, but annoyed with the man who privately insulted him as "unlucky." This is a man who will be killed one day! He smiled silently, and at the same time thought of the foolishness of this guy when he naturally proposed to attack the rich man's house.

"You want to see Mr. Raoul's work?" hum! Wait and see! A piece of cake, my prince! It's just that, now, no matter what, this burglary can't be allowed to fail! ”

Luo Ping returned to his home, feeling particularly relieved. He looked in the mirror in various different positions and looked at the hook he used to unlock the lock for a long time, because he hadn't used it for a long time. Afterwards, he ate a small snack and then lit a Havana cigar that was sold exclusively in Britain.

"At my age, I still have to pass the exam." He said to himself, "And in front of the 'claws'!" It's excessive! The 'Death Star' will monitor all my activities and judge my every movement. If I can't do better than usual, I think I'll be eliminated. Wait and see! My premier gear. Black pants, dark tunics, soft leather duck-tongue hats, leather shoes with rubber soles, tools and the vial of chloroform in my canvas bag, and the flashlight in my coat bag, the rubber stick have not forgotten..."

He approached the fireplace and gently turned the picture of Raymond de Saint-Verand over to face the wall.

"Don't look, Raymond. I assure you that my mind is not here, but I can't refuse an invitation. You don't have to worry about me, I promise you that everything will go well. ”

He went into the garage, lifted the hood of his Renault and checked the ignition and carburetor. This is not the time for a scandal.

Exactly eleven o'clock he parked his car at Trocadero Theater Square. The two dark shadows immediately slipped to his car, and then quietly and silently got into the car. There was not a word between them. Raoul drove to Henry-Martin Street and quickly turned onto Pompeau Road, where he parked in the darkness of the middle of the two street lights.

"We'll walk the rest of the way." He whispered.

They turned back into the street and walked nearly a hundred meters again.

"This is it." Raoul said.

He pointed to the two-story rich man's house in front of him, a small fenced garden.

"Sebastian stayed outside as a guard."

He issued the order so affirmatively that the fierce fellow was so shocked that he did not even think to argue with him.

"Sebastian... If you notice anything unusual, you blow "I'm Next to The Blonde," put your hands in your pockets, and walk away calmly. Don't look panicked, huh? ”

"Got it."

Raoul retrieved a metal rod from his chain of keys and inserted it into the lock of the fence door. The door was immediately opened.

"You go first!"

"Yes. Don't pretend! The hapless egg whispered.

Raoul closed the fence gate. The two men walked through the small garden and ascended the steps. The murderous man quickly examined the two locks on the door.

"That won't make you laugh." He sneered.

Raoul unhurriedly selected a new tool and worked quickly for a while. Then he gently pushed the door open with his hand.

"All right." He said softly, "Excuse me, this time I'm going to go ahead." ”

He lit the shielded flashlight and looked into the depths of the hall, feeling much more at ease. Then close the door, just like closing a fence door.

"You're crazy, aren't you?" The unlucky ghost whispered, "If you want to escape, it's not bad." ”

"Shhh! ...... If you're scared, go replace Sebastian. ”

The other was so angry that he shrugged his shoulders and followed Raoul, who, like a ghost, quietly walked up the ornate staircase, from where the red carpet deep in the hall could be seen. They stood at the foot of the stairs and listened quietly. Somewhere to their right, they heard the slow ticking of the wall clock. A car drove down the street, and its voice quickly disappeared into the darkness. Raoul shined his flashlight up the stairs and shined his feet to show his companions the way. He began to climb up. The carpet was thick. There was no sound to reveal the slow movement of the two men. They walked through the landing on the first floor without any trouble. Suddenly, the fierce man grabbed Raoul's arm. They pricked up their ears and listened carefully. A new noise came again. Someone is talking. Their front feet were dangling, waiting. There was another silence. Suddenly, Luo Ping felt the hand that grabbed his arm nervously clenched, and it was still trembling. The fierce man was frightened and on the verge of collapse. First there was the sound of fabric, then the sound of loosening the buckle, and a knife with a bad insurance card came out.

"Put it away for me!" Luo Ping lowered his voice and commanded.

He walked up a few steps, then turned around.

"Don't gasp like a wild boar."

The other converged a little. They are now very close to the landing on the second floor. The voice rang out again, and at the same time muttered something that no one could understand. It is low, vague, and urgent. Ropin smiled.

"It's an old man." He whispered, "A repulsive man, for sure." ”

They walked all the way to the hallway leading to the various rooms. Luo Ping tiptoed to the last door, then slowly turned the doorknob. A low light from a night lamp shone on the bed. With the accuracy and composure of an anesthesiologist, Ropin prepared a cotton ball dripping with a few drops of chloroform, and then he very calmly crossed the room to the sleeper and placed the cotton ball under his nose. The results are extremely fast. After a while, the man's head was tilted to the side of the pillow.

"Good night!" Ropin said, "Make the most of your time, my old Philman." ”

The fierce man watched the scene in a daze. He asked, very naively:

"How? Do you even know his name is Philman? ”

"Nope. But he deserves the name! Take a look at this pretty face! This is a very conscientious person... Okay, now get to work. Valuables are all underneath. ”

They came downstairs. There is no need to be careful now. Luo Ping was sure that the shutters in the living room were closed and the curtains were tightly covered. So he turned on the school chandelier.

"Is this necessary?"

The fierce man was terrified and glanced around with greedy eyes.

"Is this all original painting?" He asked stutteringly.

"Of course... Look, this painting depicting the mill is Lusdael... There, it's Miriro's Watermelon Dealer... Here, I don't believe I can be mistaken, it is Munching's "Three Doctors"... On the contrary, this von Dijk... Well...... I thought it was suspicious. ”

He approached the paintings slowly, stopped, took a step back, and tilted his head.

"I'm afraid I'll have to hurry up." The unlucky egg came up with a sentence coldly.

Ropin threw a contemptuous glance at him, then approached him, and he took off his duck-tongue hat.

"Take off your hat before so many beautiful things!"

"Slow down!" Another said angrily, "I don't like people touching me." ”

He was ready to take off Lusdael's painting.

"You made a mistake, Baokou." Luo Ping said, "These large works cannot be sold. That's what should be taken. ”

He pointed to the paintings at the end of the living room.

"It's a skill," said the fierce man, "and it should be forbidden." But it doesn't show anything. It's horrible! speck! Cube stuff! You're laughing at me. ”

"That's for the future!" Luo Ping admitted fiercely, "This is a million things... That one... Take it off... And that one. ”

The fierce man became more and more intolerant, and did not even want to object to the contemptuous use of the title "you". He removed the painting and showed a look of disgust on his face.

"It's useful for those fleaters." He complained.

Suddenly, they heard Sebastian's whistle and heard "I'm next to Blonde."

"We're going to be finished." The fierce man cried out.

Almost at the same time, the brakes of a car sounded. Luo Ping turned off the chandelier and opened the thick curtains. Through a crack in the shutter, he noticed a taxi slowly coming to a stop.

"It's a banker." He sighed, "It's not lucky. He should have come back on the weekend! ”

At this point, the fierce man had already put his hand into his pocket.

"Here we go again!" Raoul joked, "Always want to solve problems with a bayonet!" Or help me. ”

He began to hang oil paintings on the wall. The fierce man, though he did not understand why he did so, still emulated him. It could be seen that he was almost frightened.

"We have plenty of time." Ropin encouraged him, "He still has to pay for the ticket and find the keys... You see it makes sense for me to close all the doors. Anyway... note! That one, you hung it upside down. Felicity Dan! ...... Hurry up! Now, you hide behind the curtains, and hide them, and don't let your feet show..."

"You're settling accounts with me."

"Yes. Now, get out of the way! ”

Ropin took another last look with his flashlight. The gate opened. He immediately hid behind the drapery. The banker calmly closed the door and put a heavy object on the ground, which was undoubtedly his suitcase. He turned on the lights in the vestibule. Then there was another burst of sound. He was probably taking off his coat and taking off his hat.

Then, the chandelier suddenly lit up. The banker entered the hall. Stand in his observation position. Through the seams of the curtains, the fierce man saw him more clearly... This is a man of about forty years old, relatively short, very well dressed. He took the cigar case out of his suit and admired his painting like a collector happily seeing his treasure again, admiring his painting with uneasy satisfaction. He drew a match, roasted a cigar, and spewed out his first puff of smoke with the greedy movement of an expert.

He took a few steps to the side and approached the drapery behind him, where he was hiding from Monsieur Raoul. In order to better see the panoramic view of the spacious hall, the harmonious tones, and the perfect external contours and appearance. He moved slightly again, stood still, his back to the curtain.

Something suddenly happened so fast that the fierce person could hardly feel his instantaneous heartbeat. An arm appeared, and the rubber stick was picked up. Then there was a dull sound. The banker fell to his knees, was knocked unconscious, and then lay face down on the ground.

Mr. Raoul came out of his hiding place.

"Baby." He muttered, "You can show up, Polonius!" ”

The fierce man was completely conquered and leaned down to look at the banker.

"Dead?" he asked.

"Nothing. Just fell asleep. Okay, where are we going? ...... Oh yes! Cubist painter. It's up to you now. ”

While the fierce men were busy, Monsieur Raoul chose a cigar from the banker's cigarette case. He lit it, then went and sat down in an armchair and watched his companions at work.

"In the corner, on that side, there's a small frame of Colo painting... 'River Under the Willow Tree'... Take it up too. You're really a townsman... And then there's Boudin... Well, the harvest is not bad... All right! Get on the road, bad troops! ”

They took the paintings and carried them all the way to the fence gate. Sebastian came right over.

"Ah! It's you! ”

"Of course."

"I'm so scared! How did you clean up that good guy? ”

"He knocked him unconscious." The fierce man said.

"Phew!"

In this "oh", the rebuke is mixed with surprise.

"He'll wake up, don't worry." Ropin said, "Please wait for me. I drove the car over. ”

After a while, he stopped the car along the sidewalk. There was never a single person on the street, and they loaded the prey into the car without any trouble.

"It's going to take me a month to sell them all." Luo Ping emphasized, "Then one-third of each person, what do you think?" ”

"I want you to have reliable customers." The fierce man then said, "Never again do the stupid things of Shominar and Berjung." ”

"You finally have a little understanding." Ropin immediately joked, "If you think about it, I chose this banker because I knew in advance that he wouldn't complain. He had no doubt that the police would care about his affairs. Before taking action, I did an investigation. I always know how to start. I put you guys in Trocadero? ”

"Yes."

"Okay, here we are."

He parked the car under the tree, and the two men got out of the car. Sebastian held out his hand to him.

"Thank you... Congratulations. ”

The fierce man hesitated for a moment.

"What's there to render?" He snorted angrily and said, "Insignificant. ”

"It's just a show." Mr. Raoul corrected, "Big moves, that will be in the future." ”

The fierce man never goes. With a hand on the car door, he was pondering.

"Okay." He finally said, "The date is scheduled for next Monday, and the place is still at the Cardinal's Restaurant, at four o'clock in the afternoon, as it is today... We'll take you to the boss. Now that everything is going well... But I'll be amazed at the way he likes and welcomes you. ”

"I do my best."

Ropin waited a few minutes before restarting the car, then slowly circled around the square. I can't see a single person. He drove up Henry-Martin Avenue again and boldly parked his car in front of the banker's luxurious residence. He crossed the road with ease, opened the fence door, and ran up the steps. The door was still hidden, and it opened with just a push. Then he walked into the hall. At this moment, a voice came out of the living room.

"Is it you, boss?"

"It's me."

The chandelier came on.

"It doesn't hurt badly, does it?"

"But I still puffed up a bag."

The fake banker sat in an armchair and rubbed his eye bags with his hands.

"Poor old friend." Luo Ping shouted, "I didn't hit hard." I dare say it's a good play. ”

Hearing the noise on the stairs, they turned around at the same time. The old employer appeared.

"It was awesome." Ropin cried, "You're amazing. ”

"I'm almost going to die in vain." You're really heavy on your hands and feet, boss. This damn chloroform, it makes people pass out quickly. ”

"We've all become sluggish, kids! Oh, now get back to work. ”

Luo Ping rubbed his hands, and then he snapped his fingers, and the sound was as crisp as a castanet.

"I assure you that we have succeeded! The man who accompanied me was scared yellow. I haven't been so happy in a long time..."

He stopped, his sluggish face showing a sudden pain.

"Okay." He changed his tone and said, "Let's clean up." ”

"The owner! The fake banker cried out with emotion.

"Come here," said his companion, "do you understand?" Pack it up. ”

Quietly, the two men unloaded the contents of the car very delicately, and then hung up the painting again. Luo Ping spread his legs, put his hands in his pockets, and stood in the middle of the living room, thinking.

"Okay." Philman said worriedly, "We're done... Can we go upstairs? ”

Ropin did not answer. Philman put his finger to his mouth and made a gesture. The other man lowered his head, and they retreated with their toes.

After a moment, Luo Ping cried:

"Philman!"

Then he turned around and looked for his faithful servant with his eyes. He stroked his forehead with his hand, like someone who had just woken up, looking in front of the tall mirror that adorned the end of the hall, and then said to himself in a tone of self-reproach:

"I have no choice, Raymond. Please understand me! ”

Fourth, the test of terror

Two days later, news that made Raoul de Rimegui very unhappy was circulating. The newspapermen were overjoyed.

"The police station has fought back! ...... Whoever exposes the 'claw' will get a fortune! ”

He bought a copy of The News. The title is short, but it is definitely a sensation: a sum of one hundred thousand francs will be awarded to anyone who can provide clues to the murderer of Madame Salazar. One hundred thousand francs! The newspapermongers didn't lie, it was a fortune.

This initiative came at such an inopportune time. Wouldn't the leader of the "Claws" be even more suspicious, and wonder if this stranger would be a powerful insidious and treacherous man since he was using tricks to enter the gang? Raoul must have made assurances. But a hundred thousand! ......

The next day, at the agreed time, Raoul was pondering in frustration as he came to the Cardinal's Restaurant, where the fierce man and Sebastian were already waiting for him.

"You're five minutes late." The fierce man said with ill will, "The head demands absolute punctuality." ”

"Okay, let's go right away."

"Wait a minute."

The man took out of his pocket the large glasses worn by the driver of the car, the lenses of which were completely opaque.

"Hell yes!" Raoul protested, "It's like a blindfolded strip. Are you going to handcuff me? ”

"No." Sebastian said, "But you'd better not know where we're going." ”

"I think there should be passwords, secret passages, moving pole walls and things like that." I appreciate the mystery. ”

"Don't kid yourself." The fierce man interrupted, "Okay or not, right?" ”

"Of course it works. But at least wait until I'm in your car before I put this beautiful prop on my nose. ”

Sandwiched between two men, he walked out of the café and was then pushed into a Mercedes car, which must have been the one the bandits used to kidnap the attorney general's wife. Sebastian sat behind the wheel. The fierce man sat next to Raoul, and at all times ensured that the glasses were fully functional.

"Rest assured, I won't cheat." Raoul said, "I can still have a snack." ”

He sat comfortably into the soft cushion and closed his eyes. But his attention was always highly focused on listening to the sound of the wheels, the degree of shaking of the body odor, and the slight swing of the upper body, because it indicated that it was turning. He also heard the sound of tram bells, wooden shoes kicking and car horns. Through the noise of the street, the rolling of the glass of the doors and windows and the shouts of the little vendors, he immediately identified the direction. Definitely walking through a business district. It's time to the main road, and now... The paving pavement interface of the road is not good, which can be known from the reflection of the shock absorber. Then came a series of turns. ...... The motor suddenly roared. The car should be climbing a steep slope... Montmartre? Menil Montão? Saint-Genevieve? ...... Raoul couldn't know. No longer recognizable. Maybe they're deliberately going around in big circles... To mock the fierce man, Raoul was really asleep.

He had to shake him awake.

"It's terrible! I had a very pleasant dream. You are all rough people. ”

But he had regained all his instincts, and his memory was ready to record every detail.

sidewalk...... corridor...... An occluded smell... Then there are the stairs...

"Attention!" Sebastian reminded, "We're going down... submit. ”

Stairs lead to a large cellar, as footsteps make a brief echo.

Two steps. Another corridor, followed by an emptiness that gives the skin a strange feeling.

"Please sit."

A chair was dragged over and reached his legs and stomach. He sat down heavily, a long string of thoughts churning through his mind. He's here... The man the police station is looking for... It was the man who desecrated the pillar... Pity the murderer... My enemy... I took a big risk... Finally I found it. I can assure him... Because he's the thing I hate in the world... Put on a show, you scoundrel!

He took off his glasses with one hand and immediately forced himself to hide his surprise. He was in the middle of an arched cellar, illuminated by six kerosene lamps laid out on a long iron table. There were nine people inside, and he counted them quickly. Three people on the left, three people on the right, three people on the front. All the people were in disguise. They all wear big beards. With the help of makeup techniques, their facial contours have changed. Wigs make them harder to recognize. Luo Ping's skill in changing his face without much effort was too skilled. To hide his uneasiness, he greeted him in a friendly manner. The gathering of this magical figure seems to be more dangerous and threatening than the gathering of those in disguise.

But he immediately focused his attention on the man facing him, in the center of the horseshoe-shaped table. Head, this is indisputable. He sat in an armchair, while the others were in the chair, and he seemed to have deliberately disguised himself. A tuxedo was very wide, and his wide chestnut beard covered the lapels, making his figure look very bloated. Dark lenses with nose-clamping glasses obscured his eyes. The scribble of cinnabar and the soft black pencil changed his cheeks, and the black gloves wrapped his hands around him. He was like a clown and a fashion model.

"Welcome." He said in a thick voice that this was definitely not his voice, "I have to be cautious with you, and I am uneasy about it. But caution does not equal contempt. In our kind of life, caution is the first creed, isn't it? ...... I ask you to think about it, you are by no means a prisoner here, but a guest. Let me go a little further: a guest we are anxious to get to know. We know what kind of ideology you showed when you saved Sebastian. Therefore, I ask you to forgive the clumsiness of this young man, who is not lacking in talent, but needs to be cultivated. Let's wait and see. We also know that you did a great job that night. Marko gave us a very satisfactory report. Very satisfied! ”

In this way, this unlucky ghost is called Marko. Luo Ping bowed.

"You've passed the prize."

"No, no. So, I'm going to greet your collector's sense of smell, because I'm sure you're collecting. I thought, like you, there is now a generation of young painters who all have a brilliant future. The trouble is that we have to wait a long time before we can draw significant profits from their work.

Ropin admired the steady and friendly tone of the person he was talking to. He was anxious to get into the game.

"I know that in New York," he said, "some enthusiasts are ready to pay a great price for the works of Van-Gogh-Motigliani ... There's even Yurillo's. ”

"It's fun." The leader said, "Personally, I prefer the works of the Impressionists..."

Luo Ping looked at the matching people out of the corner of his eye, and one by one they stretched their necks, showing inexplicable looks, as if they were trying to understand the content of the conversation.

"There's also a new guy I admire a lot." He went on to say, "A man named Picasso..."

"Ha! Indeed it is. He has character and is creative. Still, I think he's still figuring it out. ”

"Soon," Thought Luo Ping with a reluctant delight, "someone will bring us tea and refreshments." What a laugh! ”

"I like people who have eyesight and judgment." The leader said, "Since I have the honour of receiving your visit, I would like to ask you what you think of the hundred thousand francs mentioned in the newspaper. ”

Luo Ping crossed his legs and sat in a chair shaking, his eyes staring at the ceiling, like a person who was at a friend's house with ease and ready to reciprocate his host's kindness.

"To me, my dear sir, this bonus shows three things: first of all, the police station is weak and incompetent..."

"Okay." The leader agreed.

"Secondly, it was Mr. Vincent Salazar who made this suggestion..."

The leader nodded.

"The more you say it, the more accurate it is."

"In the end, this bonus constitutes a real temptation to rebel."

"It's great." The leader shouted, "Your analysis is really exactly the same as mine. ”

"Let me add one more thing," Ropin continued, "that the case of the hapless Shominal and Belljong shows that the temptation of profit is still very attractive to some, and here you are..."

He glanced at the stupid group with his eyes. But he could already feel the anger in the eyes that shot at him. The leader leaned forward and said in a low voice:

"You don't know how well you say it. Someone, indeed, was thinking of betraying me. But willingly... Or someone who was willing to work for me would certainly be tight-lipped about my actions at any cost. Isn't that normal? ”

"Of course." Luo Ping said that he suddenly became very uncomfortable.

"If he breaks the law, he will know what the consequences will be." That's death. That's at the cost of our security. Isn't that right? ”

"Hmmm... In any case, this is the easiest. ”

"The storm has weighed down on me," Thought Topin, "he was suspicious of something. I'm going to know these things in a minute. I've been looking for it for a long time. ”

"You know," continued the leader, "just this morning Vincent-Sarazza received a call from Algiers. Looking for him was a woman. She told him that she was prepared to provide him with a most valuable document, if he could guarantee that he would keep his word. ”

There was a commotion of surprise and curiosity in the procession. The leader continued:

"This woman, you see, she herself quickly understood the origin of this reward proposal, and she did not disclose her name. The Attorney General cannot understand all this. But I'm not, I know this very well..."

He looked over and over at his accomplices to his left and right.

"It's a guy named Madeleine Ferrer."

The group of dumbfounded chickens began to whisper. The leader tapped his gloved fist a few times at the table. Immediately there was silence again. He faced Monsieur Raoul and spoke very politely.

"This Madeleine Ferrer is a very sincere lad's companion and we have a good relationship with him... Robert Edland... Unfortunately, he drank alcohol, and when he drank, he opened his mouth... I had to... Broke up with him. Do you understand? ”

"I understand."

So Madeleine Ferrer returned to her home in Algiers. But we kept an eye on her. I wanted to call her back to Paris. I'm going to let her do something trivial, and I'm doing it to make sure she keeps it a secret. It's too late now. She promised Prosecutor Sarazah to submit to him a list, written by Robert Edland himself, with the names of seven of us. Based on this little bit of information she revealed, I'm sure she doesn't lie, and there's such a list. Edland was even more dangerous and terrible than I thought. Because he knows so much..."

"Then you yourself," said Luo Ping, who was already very calm, "you have a lot of intelligence. I congratulate you. ”

"Thank you... We did organize well. We had eyes and ears everywhere, even those unexpected places. As far as I have learned, Madeleine Ferrer will board the Tango early tomorrow morning. She arrives in Marseille on Thursday afternoon, then spends the night at the Alexander Hotel, and on Friday morning she will be in Paris..."

"Stop her." A voice shouted.

The leader smiled, and he raised a hand to show that he had thought of all aspects of the problem.

"Last night," he continued, "Madeleine Ferrer received a call from the number she had provided to the prosecutor. Her caller's voice was so similar to Vincent Salazar's that she couldn't tell..."

To appreciate the effect of the words, he stopped. The audience burst out laughing.

“...... The voice, I said, was very similar to that of Vincent Salazar, and told her that he had seriously thought that on the way from Marseille to Paris, especially after paris, she would be in great danger, because the 'paws' could touch her whereabouts, so he thought that the most prudent way to do it was to send her a friend. She was assured of him that he would hand her a check and retrieve the list she had promised to provide. ”

The gang is now extraordinarily happy.

"Nice job." Luo Ping said.

"Slow down." The chief said, "The appointment has been set, at eight o'clock on Thursday night, at the 'Pharaoh', right in the old port. ”

He stared at Mr. Raoul.

"You go there."

"Me?"

"You!"

"But..."

"Look, aren't you going to join us?"

"Yes... It's just..."

"This is a great opportunity to show us what you are capable of... All your talents..."

"Anyone can go to Marseille and pay this check and bring it back..."

"I'm sorry! If it is limited to buying only one document, anyone can really complete it. But your role is not limited to that. ”

"I can't keep up with your train of thought."

"Oh! Follow. ”

The "fashion models" stared at Monsieur Raoul in the silence of the people.

"You're going to execute Madeleine Ferrer." The leader ordered.

Marco, who was standing right behind Raoul, with Sebastian beside him. He pushed him with his elbow.

"Answer!"

"Please forgive me." Luo Ping spoke, "I was shocked... I thought I had passed the exam..."

"Exactly." The leader admitted, "You have shown your dexterity and bravery... But also show us that you know how to obey... We don't need free shooters who do whatever we want, but people who want to be disciplined and can't refuse anything ... No! ...... Besides, do you need me to point out to you that there is no way back for you? You know too much now. ”

Now that he had fallen into the trap, Luo Ping quickly mobilized all his wisdom and thought about it seriously. When he got to Marseille, he had to come up with a countermeasure, to find the best way out of the one he secretly possessed. Now he could only bow down and use strategy.

"I have no intention of shirking." He said, "On the contrary, I am flattered. It's a trusted mission, and I understand its value. Then I'll go to Marseille. Considering the mode of action... I hope you will give me complete freedom of movement. ”

"Just not. I want to know, as I just told you, whether you can do it like a wooden man, completely as a blind instrument of my will. Therefore, you will, I will not hide from you, by our people secretly accompanied, monitored, observed, they will report to me ... This is an arrangement that you must follow: at Rue de Montmartre-Futrière attached, there is a garage with the keys here. (He put an old key in front of him.) In this garage, you'll see a 24mp Rolls-Royce car. You take it out and leave for Marseille early tomorrow morning. I think men like you should know how to drive. ”

"Yes... But why not take the train? Ropin asked.

The leader made an impatient gesture.

"You're going to need this car, on that side... I ask you not to interrupt me again. Since I am not willing to force you to make a hard trip, and since there is no need to arrive too early, you spend the night in Lyon ... At the Trade Hotel. Then, you set off for Marseille. Have booked your room at the 'Expatriate Hotel'... A beautiful room, don't be afraid. The 'claw' is very attentive to its members. On Thursday night at eight o'clock, you will appear at the 'Pharaoh's Inn' and someone will take you to table nine. ”

Raoul forcibly controlled himself. He forced a smiley face to hide his humiliation.

"I'm sure I'm going to put a red carnation on the blind." Or grab a local newspaper under your armpits. Or..."

"You have something better." The leader interrupted, "A check for a hundred thousand francs!" This is the best recognition mark. ”

Like a magician, he clipped a check with his finger and handed it to the assistant on the right. The check then began the "journey", from one hand to the other, causing a round of praise and cheers. It ended up in Ropin's hands.

"It's a shame you didn't know Vincent Salazar's signature." The leader said, "I assure you that the imitation here has been very successful. Of course, to be more like that, I signed the date of the check back. Because Madeleine Ferrer was very attentive. She must have thought of our suspicious attorney general, before putting the money out, to make sure that the list handed to him by others was not a list made up. The small surveys he has to conduct usually take four to five days... After that, Madeleine Ferrer can cash his cheque... If by then she hadn't become a ghost. ”

The whole gang was very happy. Luo Ping held one hand tightly in the other. The opponent he met was so thoughtful that he couldn't find a gap that would enable him to take countermeasures.

"I'm not cruel." The leader said gently, "There is no need to make this poor girl uncomfortable..."

He took a small glass bottle full of white powder from his tuxedo and placed it next to the key.

"You put her to sleep first. This powder will dissolve in any liquid right away, so I have enough reasons for you to choose the best wine... It neither changes the color nor the taste. Soon, Madeleine Ferrer began to show fatigue and drowsiness... You then suggested that, with your car, take her back to her hotel, the Alexandria Hotel, which is located on Prado Street. Are you familiar with Marseille? ”

"Of course it's cooked."

"Then you know that Via Prado leads straight to the pedestrian street built along the cliffs. And this pedestrian street is extended along the coast. It is separated from the sea by a thick parapet... Is it necessary for me to continue to tell you how to do it? After nine o'clock, there is no one in this place... The water is also very deep... I repeat, you won't be in any danger because you are not alone. I said to you: We track all your actions. ...... We stand ready to step in whenever necessary. ”

The tone is too sweet. At this time, Luo Ping felt the threat hidden behind it.

"It's easy." He said confidently.

"Right? ...... We will see each other again in five days. Sebastian will pick you up at the usual appointment time and place and bring you to us. You give us the list that you exchanged for the cheque, made by Madeleine Ferrer, and you become our man. You will always be the 'paw'. No problem, right? ”

"Nothing."

"Adjournment. Ah, wait a minute. I almost forgot to pay for your travel expenses and travel expenses... Don't be upset, it's the rule, here we are..."

He placed a wad of money next to the key and vial, and made a gesture. Sebastian took the things and handed them to Monsieur Raoul, while giving him sunglasses as well. Then he walked back with him. Marko stayed with his master.

"I'll put you next to me." Sebastian said, "We can talk calmly. In front of Marco, I didn't dare. He was a dangerous man. note! You move your foot and hit the throttle... What do you think? What are your impressions? ”

"Oh my God, it's still a mess... I suspect that not all the members were present. ”

"Nothing. Some are performing tasks. Moreover, the boss never brought us all together. yes! This is a very organized person. When he decides what to do, we just have to close our eyes and do it. He was against the reactive force. You think about it, when he prepares the offensive plan, he uses a scaled-down field, and the house is as small as a toy. He had a stick, like a band conductor: You guys, you guys deployed here... And you, on that side... He pointed with his baton on the sand table. Everything becomes simple and clear. That's why I'm willing to do it with him..."

A trumpet sounded. The car suddenly deflected and then moved on.

"Old women," Sebastian muttered, "they are more obnoxious than those poultry." They're drilling right under your wheels. ”

"I don't think anyone knows his real face." Robin interjected.

"There is no one. It should be said that a man was never allowed to turn around him and observe him too close. We all keep a certain distance. ”

"In short, a real boss."

"A real ... In short, almost... What he lacks, you can already see... He is not human. yes! It's complicated. On the one hand, we know he will never abandon us. Shominar and Belljung, I'm sure he wanted to do something for them. He may have prepared their escape... When he was done, he personally punished them, remember... The lives of others are irrelevant to him, nothing... This Madeleine Ferrer is an example. You see how he calmly sentenced her. She got in his way. He was going to kill her. You'll tell me she's defected, so... But it doesn't matter, I would have liked you to suggest something else... I don't know, I... I'm just a little person..."

"A nameless man, a little one." Ropin whispered, "You're kidding me. Okay, go ahead. ”

"I, you know, I don't have any power. But you! ......”

Such spontaneous regret touched Luo Ping.

"It's just that I have no choice." "Later, when I'm actually accepted, there may be a way to come up with other options," he said. At the moment, I had to go on, and from time to time I thought in my heart that this Madeleine Ferrer was not good, and she really should cherish her destiny. ”

The car was driving down the slope it had climbed when it came. Luo Ping was thinking about those dark thoughts again.

"Can I ask you a trickier question, Sebastian?"

"Of course you can."

"Have you ever been to something... How to say it? ......”

"Oh, no."

"Then you have to pass the test, and so do you."

"The boss hasn't asked me for it yet, I've never killed anyone. But I felt that one day he would force me to do it. And if I don't have the courage... I think something is going to go wrong. To you, I can say with complete confidence that I am not brave... On some small things, I can handle it... For example, I can get locks, I know how to draw glass... Do you understand? ...... But that's about it. It's just that I'm caught up in a complicated situation..."

"So will you take this tour of Marseille?"

"I think it will... That's what I can do. But there will be other people, other people I don't know. There could be Marco, and he'll go too. ”

"I'm glad to know you're going there."

"Thank you." Sebastian said excitedly.

"Do you know this Madeleine?"

"I don't know. All I know is that this is a very beautiful woman, very personable... Very flamboyant... There is not a little bit of little girl's pretense. It was as if she was from a prominent family. ”

"Where are we, if this is not confidential?"

"Royal Street."

"Well, put me here. I've been blind enough to choke. ”

Luo Ping took off his glasses, rubbed his eyes with his hands, and looked with joy at the sun, pedestrians and the enchanting beauty of the Parisian dusk.

"Ah! "Mr. Raoul," said Sebastian, "how happy I should be when everything is done." Good luck! ”

They shook hands. Luo Ping got out of the car and stood by the sidewalk waiting for the car to go away. He reached into his pocket and touched the keys, bills, and small glass bottles. He wasn't dreaming. After three days, he would be a murderer. Or is it...

"Or let the 'paws' peel my skin." He concluded, "Yasen, my old comrade, you are really in trouble now!" ”

5. The Night of Deception

Madeleine Ferrer, after completing the customs formalities, got into a taxi and went straight to the Alexandria Hotel. From time to time, she stared out the back window at the street. Vincent-Sarazza's advice to her made her uneasy. She could barely control herself. Where did the simple curiosity that prompted her to keep looking around come from? At this point, those who watch her will think that she is already under his surveillance.

Before entering the hotel, she cast a quick glance around for the last time, and then she went straight to the general desk and gently lifted the veil. Her beauty was evident, and in the hall more than one occupant turned and secretly glanced at her charming, proud figure. She held her head high, but appropriately. The gatekeeper hurried forward.

"Madame Ferrer... Very good..."

He called the porter to come.

"Please take Madame to Room One Hundred and Thirty-Six."

It is a very ornate room, it is lit by two large windows, there is a thin fountain whispering in the garden, and many goldfish swimming in the small pool. Madeleine Ferrer took off her hat and spun around, admiring the furniture she loved so much. In the center of the room there is a large carved bed, two comfortable armchairs, a swirling corner cabinet, a movable dressing mirror facing the dresser, two wardrobes... The carpet is a mixed blue color and represents an ancient briged warship with sails. She took off her gloves, locked the door, and plugged the bolt. She was finally home and could rest comfortably. She stayed in front of the moving dressing mirror for a moment and pulled the mirror down so that it could shine under her feet. The long journey made her face a little tight. She pressed her eyes on the corner of a damp bath towel, then opened the suitcase and took out a set of toiletries and a book. She put the book on the bedside table. Just as she was about to wash herself, she heard three soft noises, so light, so careful, that she wondered if she had heard wrong. In a hesitant situation, she shouted:

"Please come in!"

But she immediately remembered that the door was locked. So she picked up the book, clipped it under her armpits, walked through the room, pulled off the door bolt, put her hand on the lock, and stopped. Behind her, a young, joyful voice rang out:

"It's not supposed to say 'please come in,' but 'come out.'"

She turned around and stuck the back of her hand over her mouth, afraid that the shouts that reached her mouth would rush out. A tall, lean, well-dressed man was emerging from a closet and bowing very politely, but his hands were still rubbing his waist.

"I'm very sorry, Madame... Please forgive me. Think about it, I'm cowering in this small place, making my back ache, this is for you. Alas, my legs... Do you agree? ”

He made a few relaxing movements while still speaking in funny politeness.

"I am not yet accustomed to revealing myself in front of Madame in this way. Believe me, I'm very upset... Damn it! I could be a person with joint toughness! Hemp dead man! ...... I want to move, I want to change my posture... But you don't know, you certainly don't know, what it's like to curl up in this cramped closet for an hour. Don't do that. Advice from friends... Well, I'm a little better now, even though the ankle bone hasn't fully recovered yet..."

She looked at him unknowingly, fear pinning her in place.

"Stay there and don't move." She whispered.

"Very willing." Luo Ping said, and at the same time pulled himself an armchair.

She continued to stare at him as she slid along the wall to where the bell rang.

"Twice is called the room maid." Luo Ping spoke again, straightening both legs at the same time, and breathing a long sigh of relief. "If you think a third stroke is necessary, for me, I don't care. But in your place, I have to keep my composure. Because what I want to reveal to you is something that is secret. ”

She hesitated, but stopped anyway.

"If I have bad intentions," Ropin continued, "I will act without telling you you you are beautiful." But I said it to you. I declare, madam, that to do something bad to you is to desecrate art. Come closer and stop being afraid. No? ...... Are you always skeptical? ...... Is it the wardrobe that makes you feel unrighteous? What the? Would you like to take your handbag? ...... Please help yourself... I even allow you to hold that little pistol inside... It's very natural... Do it! ”

She quickly reached out and grabbed her handbag and pressed it tightly to her chest.

"Okay... Now it's a pistol. Yes, yes, I insist on this... Don't forget to turn on the insurance... In this way, the opportunity will be seized... Isn't it for better conversation. You, with a weapon in your hand, and me, my feet are cramping. ”

"What the hell are you?"

Luo Ping fell back in his chair and smiled happily.

"It's funny. I always encounter this same problem. Who am I? ...... Not necessarily. To you, I am the one with whom I have a date, at the Pharaonic Inn, at eight o'clock in the evening. ”

"Please prove it."

"It's simple! ...... If you could get me to pull out my wallet without getting emotional... I can. ”

He slipped his hand into his suit, took out a purse in Russian leather, and then took a check from his bag and held it up far away.

"A hundred thousand francs... Vincent Salazar's signature... You should trust me now, right? ”

He put the check back in his wallet and put it in the inner pocket of his suit.

"So, what are you doing in my room?"

"I'll explain it to you. But first put away this toy, because the show is over... Wait a minute. ”

He stood up, tiptoed to the door, then turned the key gently and slammed it open again. He leaned out and looked down the hallway, then gently closed the door.

"We're surrounded by enemies." He said, "Lean our chairs forward and speak a little lower." Okay, let's sum it up: you call the Prosecutor General and mention to him a list... Then the Prosecutor General calls you again and tells you that you will send a reliable man to you, because he is afraid that he will let you go directly to Paris..."

"So you're the guy?"

"Again and again and again. You'd better let me finish first... In fact, the phone call was not made to you by the prosecutor general. It's the leader of the 'claws'... No, don't interrupt me... Your first call was amazing... How? Who is it? This is what I want to reveal... The leader of the 'claw' immediately drew up a cunning plan. Pretending to be the opinion of the prosecutor general, he set the date at the Pharaoh's Inn. His secret is that he should hand you a check and retrieve the list. But that's not all. At dinner, he also has to pour anesthetic into your cup... You will then be taken back to your hotel, as you are already unconscious by this time. So he takes you unconscious to the pedestrian street built on a cliff and throws you off the parapet. ”

Madeleine Ferrer was pale. She didn't even dare to move.

"This secret envoy," she murmured, "is..."

"It's me. But you see, I'm betraying. ”

"Why?"

"Ah! Why...... Maybe some men are more sensitive to beauty than others... It is also more free to deal with... Maybe their hearts are more unfettered... Don't go too far... I want to save you, that's it... And I'm sure I'll be able to rescue you, if you're willing to help me... You now understand why I had to wait for you here and hide like I did. I have no other way to get close to you. ”

"Then how do you know my room number?"

"Just tip the uniformed waiter."

"Thank you." She said, "Thank you from the bottom of my heart... But we're all screwed. ”

"Say it!"

"Do you think you're better than him!" My poor friend. If only you knew him! I want revenge and want to go crazy... I can only go back to Algiers now, and I will disappear from now on..."

"It's too late. You can recite this list, right? ...... Then you are an eternal danger. ”

She hid her face in her hands and repeated in a trembling voice:

"My God... My God..."

"Can you swim?" Ropin continued to ask.

"Yes, and swim very well."

"Well, the best thing to do is to disappear on your own. That's exactly what I pre-designed. When we agreed, I slipped out. No one saw me come in, and no one saw me out. Moreover, I am sure that the real interest of these gentlemen in me should have started with our meeting at the Pharaonic Inn. I sit at your table with a relaxed look. On your side, you have to restrain yourself and don't look too nervous... I give you the check, it's a fake check, and then you give me the list... Then, halfway through dinner, you let your handbag slide to the floor. You bend down to pick it up, and you count it to twenty times. When you get up again, I've poured sleeping pills into your cup. Of course, it was secretly, but let people who were familiar with the inside story be able to see my movements. ”

He took the vial out.

"I replaced it with something innocuous."

She picked up the vial and looked at it with suspicion, and suddenly she was so excited that she poured everything in the bottle into the washbasin. She then filled the vial with a few handfuls of rice noodles.

"I promise you." Ropin said, "You should be extra careful with the gentleman who comes out of the closet." Please return this little glass bottle to me... Thank you...... The effects of sleeping pills are said to come particularly quickly... You are knocked down by a sudden fatigue: you rest your head on your stomach in your hand. You must be confident when you perform. ”

"I'll try."

"The rest is simple. I kept holding you to the car they used for me, and I put you by my side... Then hit the road to the baths. ”

Madeleine Ferrer rubbed her eyes with her hands.

"I'm dreaming," she murmured, "I believed you, and then I didn't believe you... But now I'm starting to believe you again. As soon as I think about it, I am afraid to let others manipulate me. How do you know that what you say is all true? ”

"I assure you of that. I could have gotten this list of seducers without any help. ”

"Oh! It can be hidden very tightly. ”

"Do you think so? I'm sure it's hidden in the cover of this book, the book you have to keep in your hands... Speaking of which, I'd love to see it. I've shown you my tricks, and you should show me yours too. ”

She stared at him face to face, then pulled a stack of four-fold paper out of a gap in the thick leather cover.

"Maybe I'm wrong." She said.

She carefully unfolded the paper and spread it on her knees.

"No! ...... Don't touch it! ”

Luo Ping leaned down. It was a piece of paper torn from a notepad. There is a rank word written on it, and several addresses. The handwriting is stiff and almost illegible. Underneath the piece of paper, a drop of blood was horribly lit: it was the death signature.

"They shot him twice." The young woman explained, "But he persisted for a few more minutes, which was enough for him to write down the names of people he knew." ”

"And you kept the list." Luo Ping gently reminded, "You should have been right away..."

"I didn't dare. I was terrified. I ran away... What prompted me to make a decision was the bonus. I need money so much! ”

"Of course," Ropin continued, "this is a conclusive document. If you allow, I'll copy it down. Just let Mr. Saraza master these names. As for this blood-stained piece of paper, I will give it to the 'paws'. Its authenticity is unquestionable. ”

He wrote his name on a nice notepad. When he had finished writing, he folded up the paper and put it in his small pocket.

"Didn't you expect to notify the prosecutor general that someone else had set a trap for me?" she asked.

"You forgot that his phone has been monitored. Surely his letters would be like this too. ”

The sudden suspicion made Madeleine Ferrer's pretty face freeze.

"In this case, how can you give him this list?"

"Whatever it takes, I promise you, I'll give it to him."

"Then you'll take the money for me."

Robin grabbed her hands.

"Listen, Madeleine. I am not a person who blindly does bad things. I'm a... He hesitated..." Anyway, fuck, you still don't see the risk I'm taking... Turn your beautiful head around... I repeat to you: I must have been able to get this list... What do you think? ...... The Prosecutor General signs me a real check, I take out the money, and hand you the hundred thousand francs. ”

"You shocked me!"

"I've thought about it all, and it's all settled." Luo Ping said in an eager tone.

He brought his face close to Madeleine's, and she felt the spark of his wish.

"You don't know how capable I am. Once people trust me, I can move mountains. ”

He pressed his lips to the young woman's fingertips, then changed his tone and said:

"On the way to the cliffs, only two steps from where we broke up... There is a small homestay: 'Fish', run by an elderly couple. You come out of the water and go there. I have made all the necessary preparations. No one will be surprised to see you wet, and no one will ask you any questions. ”

"What about my box?"

"It's not prudent to take it too early. Don't forget that you should disappear. I will try my best when necessary... Where would you like us to meet again? ”

"Paris."

"Isn't it dangerous?"

She shook her head.

"First of all, the 'paws' thought I was dead. In addition, for a woman, how easy it is to change her appearance. I'm more worried about you. ”

"How innocent! ...... So, do you really recommend being in Paris? ”

"Yes, and I have some personal matters to go there."

"Well, I'll be waiting for you at Renpermeyer next Saturday, at three o'clock in the afternoon, do you know?" ...... On Rivoli Street... You will see a respected professor with a white beard, a somewhat wrinkled tuxedo, and a First Class Education Medal. He is your servant. ”

For the first time, she smiled: her dark eyes seemed to be burning fire, and Luo Ping felt dazzled. He stood up.

"Do you think it's all clear?"

"Yes." She said, "You think very thoughtfully. I listen to your arrangements. ”

He bowed, walked toward the door, and then opened the slit. He glanced into the empty corridor and turned.

"Be brave."

"I will."

So he disappeared.

The uniformed waiters of the Pharaonic Inn observe the guests. The dining room's umbrella was propped open above his head as it began to rain from dusk. He saw a Rolls-Royce coming and hurried up to open the car door.

"A big guy!" He thought.

The visitor wore a long, well-cut tailless dress with a flower pinned to the buttonhole. "An English gentleman!" The waiter thought happily. He was not disappointed. Because he got a big tip.

Raoul de Limeggi was brought to table nine. He was a little ahead of time so that he could observe his surroundings, which of course looked careless. By this time there were already many people. It wasn't a very luxurious place, but it was the bourgeois rich who came to eat. Women's restrooms are not lacking in lavish furnishings everywhere. Soon, Raoul found Sebastian Grutz. He was alone, a few tables away from him. It was a solemnly dressed Sebastian, but he wasn't feeling well. Raoul wondered why the "claw" leader had chosen the pharaoh's hotel. His people are undoubtedly frequent in high-class places. But who are Sebastian's accomplices? Because the Leader of the Paws has made it clear: you are not alone, we will track all your actions, and we are always ready to intervene... Raoul already felt an unknown opponent staring at him. Who is it? The vast majority of guests are accompanied. No one seemed to pay any attention to him. Will it be a running hall? Restaurant owner? Why not? Can Madeleine Ferrer play this role well?

Raoul opened the menu, but he didn't want the dishes he had once sent him. "Ah," he thought, "do you have a crush on this woman?" ...... Even though you think I don't recognize your tricks! You can only sneak a look at her, that's a fact. But that move in the closet, eh? Always surprising, good sir! She was beautiful. So what? This is not a reason. You know very well that she is not a lady. A real lady, you can see it, think about it..."

He sighed and looked up. Madeleine Ferrer came in. Raoul still looked at her triumphantly. The costume she chose was appropriate, simple, plain, and especially relatively large, so that swimming would not affect her movements. The hat is even more perfect, a complex worth celebrating. It can float effortlessly into the morning to prove that a woman has fallen into the water.

Raoul greeted without expression, and she nodded her head softly. They should not forget, no matter which one, this is the first time they have met. They looked at each other for a moment. Then, after putting the book and handbag next to the cutlery, she sat down in the pose of an actress in the Comedy De France.

"Here they are." Ropin whispered, "Don't talk, let me say." At times like this, keep in mind that they will keep a close eye on us. I should be the central person in the conversation. You, you just listen to me. You are always on your guard, and you are wondering if I was really sent by the Attorney General. Normally, I can only give you the check after exchanging lists. But I'm going to give it to you first, in order to reassure you... Good! You pick it up and watch it carefully... That's great! That's worth a hundred thousand francs, hell! ...... Now, you seem to have been touched by my sincerity... Your face is calm, you put the check in your purse... Beware of the hotel owner. ”

Raoul is looking at the menu.

"Shell, how's it going, my dear lady?" ...... Very good...... We eat oysters... Another fish, maybe... Roasted wolf bass. This is relatively light and perfect for evening consumption. ”

He added a particularly sarcastic tone to his last few words, which did not escape Madeleine's ears. She smiled.

"Okay." Raoul was thinking, "She has both guts and brains. Everything will go smoothly. ”

He asked for a bottle of Rose Red wine from Provence, which according to the owner of the restaurant was one of the best.

"Well, only we're together, dear friend... Now it's time for you to move... You give me your book. I'll look at the title. Ha, you like Lottie. Me too. The Icelandic Fisherman, what a great masterpiece, right? Those depictions of it! What a poetic work! ...... You carefully took the list out of the cover and handed it to me... I look closely, just as you look at a check... Now I also seem very satisfied. I put it in my wallet. The 'claws' will let out a long breath. ”

"How can you be so happy?" If they suspect something, they will be very cruel. ”

"Ha!" Raoul said carefreely, "Tomorrow is still far away, this wine is really good." But don't drink too much, there are more difficult things to do. yes! If I could replace you, that would be great! The role of killing people is really not for me! ”

"That's what puzzles me. A man like you would be 'pawed'... Then you must have had a lot of bitterness..."

"Shut up." Raoul said he had completely changed his tone.

People brought fish. While they were waiting for them in the running hall, they remained silent. When the runner had gone far, Raoul continued:

"We have the right, now, to behave naturally. The ice has broken. Our friends want to see me embarrassed. I should try to be as likable as possible. Expensive is good. Wine, it's so drunk! You'll be natural too, and that will help me get the job done, when I put anesthetic into your cup. Laugh, for Sebastian... Sebastian was the tall lad, sitting at the third table next to me. He is not dangerous, but he is responsible for supervising us. Laugh for others, for these others I don't know... I put my hand on your hand... Don't jump up. It's also part of the play... At other times, my dear Madeleine, you will surely like me. This delightful rose red is easy to put on the face. Oh, well, this unpleasant little action. It is true that I intend to be a bold person. Facing beauty, this is my weakness. Since the environment allows me to be gentle, let me say to you that your calm courage is touching. ”

"Stop this joke." She whispered, "It's cruel. ”

"It's better than life, hey. You have lost the man you love. I...... Who knows, I'm pretty much in mourning. The two of us had dinner in this festive atmosphere. So let's forget who we are for a moment. It's gentle, it's touching, it's a little sad... I raise a glass. You raise your cup... From the top of this crystal cup, we exchange our eyes for our **. Our spies will be very uncomfortable. I hope you cherish this minute. I want to tell you, dear Madeleine, to cherish this rare moment. Unfortunately, I saw that the dessert was about to be served after the meal. You let your handbag fall off... Right now! ouch! ”

The young woman pushed the handbag just right with her elbow, and the handbag fell to the floor.

Just as she was about to lean over to pick it up, a man sitting next to her reached out, picked up his handbag, and then smiled arrogantly and handed it back to her. She thanked him and then said to Raoul:

"It's not my fault, I can't do it again!"

"Don't you have to be nervous, dear friend, for a little cheese?" ...... No? ...... Ask for a fruit. ”

"A citrus."

"Runner, please take the fruit and ask for two more cups of coffee."

"So what do you do?"

"And a little bit of wine. I took out the vial. I hid it in the palm of my hand. I grasp the bottleneck. At this time, the bottleneck of the vial and the wine collided. I laughed and I said to you, 'Okay! Finish drinking this bottle of wine! You objected, but it all came too late. Wine and powder enter your glass at the same time. That's it. You don't find anything, and everyone else is looking into your eyes. ”

"You're such a freak!"

"Drink it... That's right. Now the drama has begun. I told you that the effect is extremely fast. ”

"You promise me, you didn't replace the rice noodles with anything else, did you?" ...... I believe you so much, like a fool. ”

"This, my dear, is a thrill of survival. Fooled or not? Poisoned or not poisoned? ...... To admit that this is interesting. No, you can rest assured that your composure will be restored. Let's start with a yawn and cover it with your hands... That's it! ...... Very good! ...... We continued the conversation. I'll hand you a cigarette... You refuse on the grounds that you are a little dizzy... It's my turn. I care deeply about you. I ask you if we go out... Another yawn, a little more obvious... It's beautiful! ...... This time, I made the decision. You start blinking. My name is Running Hall. You try to stand up. ”

"Isn't Madame uncomfortable?" The running hall is asking.

"Nothing. Just a little drunk. ”

Raoul threw a Louie on the table and put his arm around Madeleine Ferrer's waist.

"People are watching us." He whispered, "Lean on me like the real thing." ”

They walked slowly toward the door.

"I beg you. Don't seem inappropriately shy. Relax a bit... You're about to pass out. ”

The uniformed waiter opened the door and waved his large umbrella.

"Do you need my help?"

"No... Thank you. ”

The young woman's head rested on his shoulder.

"Open the car door, quick!"

Madeleine Ferrer sat down in the front seat. Raoul laid her legs flat. He handed the waiter a coin, and then, after slaming the car up with a crank, he sat down behind the wheel.

"Until now, it's 100 percent better." He said very cheerfully, "Because of this rain, there will be no one outside." Get lucky! Even if it's a coincidence that you meet someone after you fall into the water, he won't wonder why you****? ...... What's up, Madeleine? Do you hear me? ”

He shook her.

"I'm afraid." She said, "I'm scared to death. belch! I'm out of danger. This is not a problem. However, in this hotel, I feel very good. ”

She rested her head on her companion's shoulder and stopped talking. A car overtook them. Raoul carefully drove the car while wiping the water vapor from the windshield. He came to the road on the cliff. As he slowed down in search of road signs, the sea was engulfed in darkness, but the sound of it lapping at the roadbed could still be heard.

"This is it." He said, at the same time slammed on the brakes. "Fifty meters to the right, there's a rock sticking out, and you can climb it up to the road. The small homestay is almost opposite. Come on! ”

He reversed the car and took madeleine in his arms.

"They may be right in front of you." He continued, "Be bold! I'll let you sit on the parapet. You're bracing yourself on your heels. I pretend to push you, you jump, and swim as far as you can. Darkness saved us. ”

He carried her all the way to the parapet. He couldn't make up his mind to let her go.

"I really regret it." He muttered, "Listen! If you feel dangerous," you shout. I'll jump. Deserve. Let the 'claws' go to hell. ”

"No, it's going to be fine, I promise you."

Suddenly, she put her hand around Raoul's neck and gave him a long kiss. Then she broke free, turned around lightly, and disappeared. He leaned over the parapet, and the splash of water from the divers wet his face. He waited, holding out his ears and listening. The sound of the motor reminded him. He straightened up. A car came and all the lights were turned off. It drove slowly past and disappeared into the darkness.

The enemy is not far away.