On second thought, he restrained himself,
returned the locket to his breast, and muttered:
"The child is not to blame. Those who have made her such a monster are
at fault. I will keep the miniature as a talisman for the future."
"And now, M. Cambray," pursued the marquis, "we want to learn what has
become of your young friend. In fact, we _must_ know what has become of
him and his charge."
"I don't know where he is."
"You do know. According to the report from our witness, he has fled to a
'country where order prevails, and where there are no police.' Where is
this country, M. Cambray?"
"In the moon, perhaps!" was the laconic response.
"Our witness heard these words from your own lips, and you pointed out
the spot on the map to your friend."
"Your witness dreamed all this!"
"M. Cambray, let us talk sensibly. You are a banker--at least, that is
what you are registered in the police records. It is to the interest of
the state to discover your secret. If you will reveal the hiding-place
of your friend you may demand your own reward. Do you wish to be
intrusted with the management of the state's finances? Or--"
"I regret, monsieur le marquis," interrupted Cambray, "that I must
refuse so handsome an opportunity to enrich myself.
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