You were born in Richmond,
Wilkie, where we remained nearly a month, during which time I saw
but little of your father. He had formed the acquaintance of
several rich planters, and spent his time hunting and gambling
with them. Unfortunately, fifty thousand dollars could not last
long at this rate; and, in spite of his skill as a gambler, he
returned home one morning ruined. A fortnight later when he had
sold our effects, and borrowed all the money he could, we embarked
again for France. It was not until we reached Paris that I
discovered the reasons that had influenced him in returning to
Europe. He had heard of my father and mother's death, and
intended to compel me to claim my share of the property. He dared
not appear in person on account of my brother. At last the hour
of my vengeance had arrived; for I had taken a solemn oath that
this scoundrel who had ruined me should never enjoy the fortune
which had been his only object in seducing me. I had sworn to die
inch by inch and by the most frightful tortures rather than give
him one penny of the Chalusse millions. And I kept my word.
"When I told him that I was resolved not to assert my rights, he
seemed utterly confounded. He could not understand how the down-
trodden slave dared to revolt against him. And when he found that
my decision was irrevocable, I thought he would have an attack of
apoplexy.
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