COUNT D’ARTIGAS 27

those inventions which increase the means of destruction
which are too numerous already.”

“That is well said,” remarked the Count, “and I agree
with you. True progress does not lie in that direction,
and I look upon all such efforts as malevolent. But has
this man entirely lost the use of his mental powers ?”

“Entirely? No, Count, only as far as the things of
ordinary life are concerned. In regard to these he has
neither understanding nor responsibility. Yet his in-
ventive genius has remained intact, it has survived the
mental collapse, and if his absurd demands had been
admitted, I have no doubt he would have produced a new
engine of war—of which there is not the least need.”

“Certainly not, certainly not,” repeated the Count..
And Captain Spade looked approval.

“You may judge for yourself, sir. Here we are at the
pavilion where M. Roch lives. Though his detention is
necessary for the safety of the public, he none the less
receives all the attentions due to him, and the care neces-
sary to his condition. Besides, he is out of reach of those
who might wish to—”

The Principal finished his sentence by nodding his head
significantly. This brought an imperceptible smile to the
lips of his guest.

“ But,” the Count asked, ‘‘is M. Roch never alone?”

“Never, sir. He has a keeper, in whom we have
complete confidence, in constant attendance. In case
he should by some means or other let fall any suggestion

relating to his discovery, his words would. be immediately