The Lerouge Case · Chapter
XVIII explained
Tabaret tracks down Noel Gerdy's mistress, Juliette Chaffour, and questions her about Noel's alibi for the night of the murder.
What happens
Tabaret tracks down Noel Gerdy's mistress, Juliette Chaffour, and questions her about Noel's alibi for the night of the murder. Juliette reveals that Noel acted strangely at the theater and masked ball, got drunk, and lost his belongings, leading Tabaret to conclude Noel is the murderer. Tabaret rushes to M. Daburon's office to demand a warrant, while the Count de Commarin slips away upon hearing Noel's name.
Themes in this chapter
Secrecy and Deception
Tabaret uses deception to extract information from Juliette, who unknowingly reveals Noel's alibi.
Obsession and Detection
Tabaret's obsessive pursuit of the truth drives him to interrogate Juliette and deduce Noel's guilt.
Justice and Injustice
Albert is wrongly imprisoned while the real murderer is identified; the pursuit of justice is a central focus.
Characters to notice
- M. Tabaret
Follows Juliette home, questions her about Noel's alibi, and becomes convinced of Noel's guilt.
- Juliette Chaffour
Noel's mistress; reveals details about Noel's behavior on the night of the crime, including his drunkenness and lost belongings.
- Noel Gerdy
Adopted son of Tabaret, suspected of the murder; his alibi is undermined by Juliette's testimony.
- M. Daburon
Magistrate informed by Tabaret of Noel's guilt; had already arranged for Albert's release.
- Count Rheteau de Commarin
Present in Daburon's office; leaves quietly upon hearing Noel's name.
- Albert de Commarin
Innocent man imprisoned; Daburon has arranged for his release.
Key passages
“And to think that he would be my heir, if I should die here of rage! For it is written in my will in so many words, ‘I bequeath to my son, Noel Gerdy!’ If he is guilty, there isn’t a punishment sufficiently severe for him.”
Tabaret reflects bitterly that Noel is his heir and would inherit if he died, but if Noel is guilty, he deserves the harshest punishment.
Tabaret's internal conflict between paternal affection and the demand for justice.
“I am tired of having a lover who is ashamed of me and who despises me.”
Juliette expresses her frustration with Noel's shame and contempt toward her.
Reveals the strained relationship and Noel's secretive nature.
“Miserable wretch! Infamous scoundrel! It is he; but I have him!”
Tabaret exclaims in triumph that Noel is the murderer and that he has proof.
Climactic moment of Tabaret's deduction.