This address caused a considerable change in the physiognomy of
my own 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 thus, while every proper
measure is pursued, you should make up your mind to
disappointment."