“Monsieur, my name is tarnished! I am suspected⁠—accused⁠—of foul crime.”

“The accusation does not come from me,” said Derek coldly; “as an interested party I have not expressed any opinion.”

“I am innocent,” said the Comte. “I swear before heaven”⁠—he raised his hand to heaven⁠—“that I am innocent.”

“ M. Carrège is, I believe, the Juge d’Instruction in charge of the case,” hinted Derek politely.

The Comte took no notice.

“Not only am I unjustly suspected of a crime that I did not commit, but I am also in serious need of money.”

He coughed softly and suggestively.

Derek rose to his feet.