Chapters 37-39 Summary

Paul learns of Albert's accident from a newspaper, of his condition from the Grasse police, and of his Swiss address from their common bank. Large checks are being drawn regularly, possibly forged. Picturing Albert at his dangerous mistress' mercy, Paul wonders what to do until Elisabeth sends him to Switzerland. Paul arrives in Brigaud, learns about the chalet, the niece, and the doctor, and considers that Albert may be well cared for. Margot and Emilia come to town, do not notice the taxi, but hear about a stranger who has driven up to see Albert.

Axel is sitting stark naked in front of Albert like Rodin's Thinker, staring and tickling Albert with a grass stem as though it were a fly. Suddenly, Albert reacts to a noise on the terrace, and Axel sees Paul, who knows his identity. Albert insists that...