 Rastignac refuses to go along with the plot , <unk> at the idea of having someone killed to acquire their wealth , but he takes note of Vautrin 's machinations . This is a lesson in the harsh realities of high society . Before long , the boarders learn that police are seeking Vautrin , revealed to be a master criminal nicknamed Trompe @-@ la @-@ Mort ( " <unk> of Death " ) . Vautrin arranges for a friend to kill Victorine 's brother , in the meantime , and is captured by the police . 
