Bruno, Chief of Police: A Novel of the French Countryside

The next day, local businessmen complain to the mayor about the negative press, demanding tax relief and Captain Duroc’s transfer. Newspapers run a photo of Bruno shielding women during the violence, earning him praise. Bruno defends Duroc’s actions. The mayor learns Duroc has arrested Karim for assault during the riot. They discuss how a conviction could cost Karim his tobacco license. The mayor goes to comfort Karim’s mother while Bruno heads to the gendarmerie.

Residents praise Bruno for his actions during the riot. At the gendarmerie, he learns Magistrate Tavernier is questioning Karim based on video evidence. Bruno alerts the mayor, intercepts a furious Momu outside the station, and asks a local notary to act as Karim’s representative. Inside, he confronts Tavernier and negotiates Karim’s release. The crowd cheers, and after an angry outburst about past injustices, Momu apologizes to Bruno.

Bruno has dinner with Pamela and Christine at Pamela’s home. Christine’s research reveals that Hamid’s old soccer team was the Oraniens, an immigrant league team from the 1940s, and provides the contact information for an expert. Grateful for their help, Bruno promises to cook for them in return.