Instead of causing an increase of severity, Maurice's and Jean
Lacheneur's frightful imprudence had been, as it were, the point of
departure for a universal indulgence.
One might reasonably have supposed that the authorities of Montaignac
had forgotten, and desired to have forgotten, if that were possible,
Lacheneur's conspiracy, and the abominable slaughter for which it had
been made the pretext.
They soon heard at the farm that Maurice and the brave corporal had
succeeded in reaching Piedmont.
No allusion was made to Jean Lacheneur, so it was supposed that he had
not left the country; but they had no reason to fear for his safety,
since he was not upon the proscribed list.
Later, it was rumored that the Marquis de Courtornieu was ill, and that
Mme. Blanche did not leave his bedside.
Soon afterward, Father Poignot, on returning from Montaignac, reported
that the duke had just passed a week in Paris, and that he was now on
his way home with one more decoration--another proof of royal favor--and
that he had succeeded in obtaining an order for the release of all the
conspirators, who were now in prison.
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