Page:Memoirs of Vidocq, Volume 2.djvu/23

 before; but I observed to him, that so abrupt a liberation would certainly compromise me with the prisoners, in case that the good of the service should require me again to be entered as prisoner on the jailor's books. The reflection appeared just; and it was agreed that they should devise a means of sending me away the next day without incurring suspicion.

Neveu, who was amongst the prisoners, was also examined after me in the commissaries' closet. After some minutes he came out in a rage, and I asked him what had happened?

"What do you think?" said he, "the old covey wanted me to turn nose on the cracksmen who have just arrived. If they find no one to blow them but me they are all right."

"Why, I did not think you such a flat," said I, the idea flashing on my mind, that I might turn this to advantage, "I have promised to blow the gang, and ensure them a lodging in the stone jug."

"What! you turned nose? Besides, you are not fly to the gang."

"What matters that? I shall get out of quod, and show them my heels, whilst you are still clinking the darbies."

Neveu appeared struck with the idea, and expressed much regret for having refused the offers of the commissary-general; and as I could not get rid of him, I begged him to return to M. Dubois and recall his refusal. He agreed; and as I had arranged, we were one evening conducted to the great theatre; then to the Celestins, where Neveu pointed out to me all the men. We then retired, escorted by the police agents, who kept close upon us. For the success of my plan, and to avoid suspicion, it was expedient to make the attempt to escape, which would at least confirm the hope which I had given to my companion, and I told him of my intention. On passing Rue Merciere, we entered abruptly into a passage and closed the door; and whilst the officers ran to the other end, we went out quietly by the way we had entered. When they