What does the "before long" mean?

[Clemmiefun]

Hi,

Please read this, "The police will apprehend the culprit and convict him before long."
I do not understand the meaning of the "before long".Please help... thank you in advance.

[Yankee]

.
'Before long' means 'soon'.
.

[Nessie]

"before long" means "in near future"
_________________
... something we never have again, I know... I guess I really really know..

Sorry seems to be the hardest word...

[Yankee]

.
In the near future also means soon, Nessie.
.

[Lost_Soul]

[Yankee]

Hi Alex

The word 'the' is necessary.
.

[Clemmiefun]

Thank you for your help, and What I learned from you that is more than I thought...