"
Marguerite sprang to her feet, at once agitated and alarmed. "How
did you know this?" she exclaimed.
M. Fortunat had left his arm-chair, and was now leaning against
the mantel-shelf, in what he considered a most becoming and awe-
inspiring attitude, with his thumb in the armhole of his
waistcoat. "Ah! nothing could be more simple," he answered, in
much the same tone as a conqueror might assume to explain his
feat. "It is part of my profession to penetrate the intentions of
persons who deign to honor me with their confidence. So my
surmises are correct; at least you have not said the contrary?"
She had said nothing. When her first surprise was over, she
vainly endeavored to find a plausible explanation of M. Fortunat's
acquaintance with her affairs, for she was not at all deceived by
his pretended perspicacity. Meanwhile, delighted by the supposed
effect he had produced, he recklessly continued: "Reserve your
amazement for what I am about to disclose, for I have made several
important discoveries. It must have been your good angel who
inspired you with the idea of coming to me. You would have
shuddered if you had realized the dangers that threatened you.
But now you have nothing to fear; I am watching. I am here, and I
hold in my hand all the threads of the abominable intrigue for
ruining you. For it is you, your person, and your fortune that
are imperilled.
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