It was quite a different thing.
"Say at once that you wish still more overwhelming evidence,"
interrupted the duke. "Very well! You shall have it. Continue your
deposition, witness."
"The accused," continued Chupin, "was present at all the conferences
held at Lacheneur's house. The proof of this is as clear as daylight.
Being obliged to cross the Oiselle to reach the Reche, and fearing the
ferryman would notice his frequent nocturnal voyages, the baron had an
old boat repaired which he had not used for years."
"Ah! that is a remarkable circumstance, prisoner; do you recollect
having your boat repaired?"
"Yes; but not for the purpose which this man mentions."
"For what purpose, then?"
The baron made no response. Was it not in compliance with the request of
Maurice that the boat had been put in order?
"And finally," continued Chupin, "when Lacheneur set fire to his house
to give the signal for the insurrection, the prisoner was with him."
"That," exclaimed the duke, "is conclusive evidence."
"I was, indeed, at the Reche," interrupted the baron; "but it was, as
I have already told you, with the firm determination of preventing this
outbreak.
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