"He may give us a valuable hint, nevertheless."

"He? A man who has no sense? You don't really think so. The law cannot
attach any importance to the evidence of a fool."

M. Galpin betrayed his impatience by an increase of stiffness, as he
replied,--

"I know my duty, sir."

"And I," replied the physician,--"I also know what I have to do. You
have summoned me to assist you in this investigation. I obey; and I
declare officially, that the mental condition of this unfortunate man
makes his evidence utterly worthless. I appeal to the commonwealth
attorney."

He had hoped for a word of encouragement from M. Daubigeon; but nothing
came. Then he went on,--

"Take care, sir, or you may get yourself into trouble. What would you do
if this poor fellow should make a formal charge against any one? Could
you attach any weight to his word?"

The peasants were listening with open mouths. One of them said,--

"Oh! Cocoleu is not so innocent as he looks."

"He can say very well what he wants to say, the scamp!" added another.

"At all events, I am indebted to him for the life of my children," said