"
An arm-chair was standing nearby; he sank into it, intending to watch
for his father's return; by doing so, he might know his destiny a few
moments sooner.
Three long hours passed before the baron returned.
By his father's dejected manner he plainly saw that all hope was lost.
He was sure of it; as sure as the criminal who reads the fatal verdict
in the solemn face of the judge.
He had need of all his energy to regain his couch. For a moment he felt
that he was dying.
But he was ashamed of this weakness, which he judged unworthy of him. He
determined to know what had passed--to know the details.
He rang, and told the servant that he wished to speak to his father. M.
d'Escorval promptly made his appearance.
"Well?" cried Maurice.
M. d'Escorval felt that denial was useless.
"Lacheneur is deaf to my remonstrances and to my entreaties," he
replied, sadly. "Nothing remains for you but to submit, my son. I
shall not tell you that time will assuage the sorrow that now seems
insupportable--you would not believe me. But I do say to you, that you
are a man, and that you must prove your courage.
Pages:
201
202
203
204
205
206
207
208
209
210
211
212
213
214
215
216
217
218
219
220
221
222
223
224
225