* * * * *
_From Monsieur Lecoq to Inspector Bucket_.
May 27.
SIR,—There has arrived a frightful misunderstanding. The man you have
sent us is not Fosco. Of Fosco he has only the baldness, the air
benevolent, and the girth. The brand on his right arm is no more than
the mark of vaccination. Brought before the Commissary of Police, the
prisoner, who has not one word of French, was heard through an
interpreter. He gives himself the name of Piquouique, _rentier_,
English; and he appeals to his Ambassador. Of papers he had letters
bearing the name Samuel Pickwick, and, on his buttons, the letters P.C.,
which we suspect are the badge of a secret society. But this is not to
the point; for it is certain that, whatever the crimes of this brigand,
he is _not_ Fosco, but an Englishman. That he should be found in the
domicile of Fosco when that droll had evaded is suspicious (_louche_),
and his explanation does not permit itself to be understood. I have fear
that we enjoy bad luck, and that M. Palmerston will make himself to be
heard on this matter.
Accept, Monsieur, the assurance of my high consideration.