"
To suspect the truth of these affirmations was difficult, and yet
Maurice doubted still.
"So, sir," he said, hesitatingly, "in case I was able to find a
priest----"
The physician was silent. One might have supposed he was blaming himself
for meddling with matters that did not concern him.
Then, almost brusquely, he said:
"Listen to me attentively, Monsieur d'Escorval. I am about to take my
leave, but before I go, I shall take occasion to recommend a good
deal of exercise for the sick lady--I will do this before your host.
Consequently, day after to-morrow, Wednesday, you will hire mules, and
you, Mademoiselle Lacheneur and your old friend, the soldier, will
leave the hotel as if going on a pleasure excursion. You will push on
to Vigano, three leagues from here, where I live. I will take you to a
priest, one of my friends; and he, upon my recommendation, will perform
the marriage ceremony. Now reflect, shall I expect you on Wednesday?"
"Oh, yes, yes, Monsieur. How can I ever thank you?"
"By not thanking me at all. See, here is the innkeeper; you are Monsieur
Dubois, again.
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