I
did not know that the young man was beloved by my brother's
daughter--I did not know--"
The baron interrupted her, and exclaimed, indignantly: "Ah! what
does that matter? It was none the less an abominable action."
She hung her head, and in a scarcely audible voice replied: "I was
not free. I submitted to a will that was stronger than my own.
If you had heard M. de Coralth's threats you would not censure me
so severely. He has discovered my secret; he knows Wilkie--I am
in his power. Don't frown--I make no attempt to excuse myself--I
am only explaining the position in which I was placed. My peril
is imminent; I have only confidence in you--you alone can aid me;
listen!"
Thereupon she hastily explained M. de Coralth's position
respecting herself, what she had been able to ascertain concerning
the Marquis de Valorsay's plans, the alarming visit she had
received from M. Fortunat, his advice and insinuations, the
dangers she apprehended, and her firm determination to deliver
Mademoiselle Marguerite from the machinations of her enemies.
Madame d'Argeles's disclosures formed, as it were, a sequel to the
confidential revelations of Pascal Ferailleur, and the involuntary
confession of the Marquis de Valorsay; and the baron could no
longer doubt the existence of the shameful intrigue which had been
planned in view of obtaining possession of the count's millions.
Pages:
100
101
102
103
104
105
106
107
108
109
110
111
112
113
114
115
116
117
118
119
120
121
122
123
124