Pagina 423 di 483

"I do not doubt that he hovers near the spot which I inhabit, and

if he has indeed taken refuge in the Alps, he may be hunted like

the chamois and destroyed as a beast of prey. But I perceive your

thoughts; you do not credit my narrative and do not intend to

pursue my enemy with the punishment which is his desert."

As I spoke, rage sparkled in my eyes; the magistrate was

intimidated. "You are mistaken," said he. "I will exert myself,

and if it is in my power to seize the monster, be assured that he

shall suffer punishment proportionate to his crimes. But I fear,

from what you have yourself described to be his properties, that

this will prove impracticable; and thus, while every proper

measure is pursued, you should make up your mind to

disappointment."