source of these many misfortunes which have overwhelmed our peaceful
village for two years past. It is indeed a stroke of good luck that
has led a man of such gifts into our neighbourhood at a time when
he is so greatly needed. I believe personally that it is the same
person or persons who have been the perpetrators of all these
outrages and I intend once for all to put a stop to it, let it cost
what it may."

"If any one can discover the truth it will be Muller," said the
district judge. "It was I who told the Count how fortunate we were
that this man, who is known to the police throughout Austria and far
beyond the borders of our kingdom, should have chanced to be in
Budapest and free to come to us when we called. You and I"--he
turned with a smile to the local magistrate--"you and I can get
away with the usual cases of local brutality hereabouts. But the
cunning that is at the bottom of these crimes is one too many for
us."

The men had taken their places around the great dining-table. The
old housekeeper had crept out again, her terror making her forget
her usual hospitality. And indeed it would not have occurred to the
guests to ask or even to wish for any refreshment. The maid brought
a lamp, which sent its weak rays scarcely beyond the edges of the
big table. The four men sat in silence for some time.

"I suppose it would be useless to ask who has been coming and going
from the rectory the last few days?" began the Count.

"Oh, yes, indeed, sir," said the district judge with a sigh. "For
if this murderer is the same who committed the other crimes he must