# XIII explained — Monsieur Lecoq

> Chapter companion for Monsieur Lecoq by Émile Gaboriau.

## What happens

After a grueling seven-hour examination of the prisoner, M. Segmuller and Lecoq discuss the man's remarkable composure and debate whether he is the stroller May or a high-ranking individual. Lecoq suggests questioning Polyte Chupin for information about the Poivrière's frequenters. The governor of the Depot arrives, expressing suspicion that the prisoner is an escaped convict, and sides with Inspector Gevrol against Lecoq's theories. Segmuller supports Lecoq and entrusts him with evidence, including a diamond earring and a letter signed 'Lacheneur.'

## Themes in this chapter

### Appearance vs. Reality

The prisoner's masterful performance as a buffoon contrasts with the suspicion that he is actually a high-ranking criminal, highlighting the theme of deceptive appearances.

### Deduction and Scientific Observation

Lecoq and Segmuller analyze the prisoner's behavior and demeanor to deduce his true identity, demonstrating the use of observation and reasoning in detective work.

### Ambition and Professional Rivalry

Lecoq's determination to prove his theory against Gevrol's skepticism reflects the competitive dynamics and ambition within the police force.

## Character check-ins

### M. Segmuller

Exhausted after the long examination, but remains supportive of Lecoq's theories and orders Polyte Chupin to be summoned.

### Monsieur Lecoq

Admires the prisoner's skill and courage, proposes questioning Polyte Chupin, and is angered by Gevrol's criticism but encouraged by Segmuller's backing.

### Goguet

The smiling clerk who writes the summons for Polyte Chupin's wife and takes a theatrical interest in the proceedings.

### Gevrol

Mentioned as the inspector who criticizes Lecoq's overzealousness, siding with the governor's view that the prisoner is an escaped convict.

### Polyte Chupin

Widow Chupin's son, proposed by Lecoq as a potential source of information about the Poivrière's frequenters; a summons is issued for him and his wife.

### Widow Chupin

Mentioned as having a son named Polyte who might know the frequenters of the Poivrière.

## Key lines

> What a knave! ... No, that man is not a knave. When I spoke to him kindly he was really touched; he wept, he hesitated. I could have sworn that he was about to tell me everything.

Segmuller initially thinks the prisoner is a rascal but then reflects that the man seemed genuinely moved by kindness, suggesting he might have been close to confessing.

_Highlights the theme of appearance vs. reality and the magistrate's uncertainty about the prisoner's true nature._

> What coolness, what courage! ... his system of defense—of absolute denial—is a masterpiece.

Lecoq admires the prisoner's composure and skill in maintaining a complete denial, comparing his performance to that of a great actor.

_Emphasizes Lecoq's respect for the adversary and the theme of deception._

> You see that Gevrol already speaks ill of me; he is jealous. ... Ah, well! what does that matter to you? If you succeed, you will have your revenge.

Lecoq complains about Gevrol's criticism, but Segmuller reassures him that success will be the best response to jealousy.

_Illustrates the professional rivalry between Lecoq and Gevrol._

## Links

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