This address caused a considerable change in the physiognomy of
my auditor. He had heard my story with that half kind of belief
that is given to a tale of spirits and supernatural events; but
when he was called upon to act officially in consequence, the
whole tide of his incredulity returned. He, however, answered
mildly, "I would willingly afford you every aid in your pursuit;
but the creature of whom you speak appears to have powers which
would put all my exertions to defiance. Who can follow an animal
which can traverse the sea of ice, and inhabit caves and dens,
where no man would venture to intrude? Besides, some months have
elapsed since the commission of his crimes, and no one can
conjecture to what place he has wandered, or what region he may
now inhabit."
"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;
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 that, while every proper
measure is pursued, you should endeavour to make up your mind to
disappointment."