Chapter 16

Against his will, Erstein made the concession. Barnett’s procedure in those five days of grace often disconcerted Inspector Béchoux. He took—and made Béchoux take—the most irregular steps, interviewed and organized a band of helpers, and spent money like water. However, he seemed dissatisfied, and, contrary to habit, was taciturn and inclined to sulk. On Tuesday morning he had a talk with Madame Fougeraie and told her: “Béchoux has got the prosecution to agree to a reconstruction of the events of the fatal night, i…