The Day of the Jackal

Claude Lebel emerges from a briefing with the Minister of the Interior. Having read the Rolland report, Lebel feels overwhelmed. He has “unlimited access” (189) to any information, manpower, or funds he might need, yet all he has to work with is a codename. Lebel is known as a methodical, slow, precise investigator. He is respected in his department, particularly for his effectiveness. At the end of the briefing, the aristocratic Saint-Clair de Villauban approaches Lebel with “ill-concealed distaste” (191). He will keep a close eye on Lebel’s investigation, and there will be repercussions for failure. Lebel is effective because he can inspire trust in the people who are often overlooked by pompous aristocrats like de Villauban. Previous attempts to intimidate Lebel ended badly. Speaking to Bouvier, Lebel requests being assigned the youthful Lucien Caron as his assistant and seeks permission to informally contact the heads of homicide departments in the United States, Great Britain, Italy, Belgium, the Netherlands, West Germany, and South Africa. This is granted, though Bouvier warns that Lebel must share a daily presentation. Lebel reflects on his new assignment, which has made him “the most powerful cop in Europe” (195). He cannot fail.