To whom would the death of this unfortunate woman be profitable?
That is the fatal question, Signor Marchese, which it is impossible
to avoid asking."
"I am aware of the cruelty of the inference suggested by the
circumstance, Signor Commissario," said Ludovico sadly.
"Have you any suggestion to offer yourself as to the possible means
by which this woman may have met with her death?" asked the
Commissary of Police.
"As far as I could see at the city gate, and according to the
statement of the men who found the body, there was no indication of
violence whatever to be found on it. My suggestion therefore, and my
trust is, that the cause of her death was a natural one:"
"That will be a question for the medical authorities to decide,"
said the Commissary.
"I was about to ask you whether they had proceeded to any
examination yet?" said Ludovico.
"Not yet; we shall have the report immediately; and it shall be at
once communicated to you."
"At the Palazzo Castelmare?" said Ludovico, though he had but very
little hope that he should be allowed to remain at large.
The Commissary shook his head very gravely.
"I need hardly tell you, Signor Marchese, how painful it is to me to
be compelled to announce to you that we cannot find it consistent
with our duty to allow you under the circumstances to quit this
building.
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