And it was still to his mother--
the incomparable guardian of his honor--that he owed his
resolution on the morning he applied to Baron Trigault. And his
courage met with its first reward.
He was no longer the same man when he left the princely mansion
which he had entered with his heart so full of anguish. He was
still somewhat bewildered with the strange scenes which he had
involuntarily witnessed, the secrets he had overheard, and the
revelations which had been made to him; but a light gleamed on the
horizon--a fitful and uncertain light, it is true, but
nevertheless a hopeful gleam. At least, he would no longer have
to struggle alone. An honest and experienced man, powerful by
reason of his reputation, his connections and his fortune, had
promised him his help. Thanks to this man whom misfortune had
made a truer friend than years could have done, he would have
access to the wretch who had deprived him both of his honor and of
the woman he loved. He knew the weak spot in the marquis's armor
now; he knew where and how to strike, and he felt sure that he
should succeed in winning Valorsay's confidence, and in obtaining
irrefutable proofs of his villainy.
Pascal was eager to inform his mother of the fortunate result of
his visit, but certain arrangements which were needful for the
success of his plans required his attention, and it was nearly
five o'clock when he reached the Route de la Revolte.
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