When
they are examined by a magistrate, who is conversant with the
whole affair, can they deny their guilt? No; certainly not.
Acting upon their confession, the authorities will force an
entrance into Valorsay's house, where they will find your father's
will and the receipt given by M. de Fondege--in a word, all the
proofs of their guilt. And while this search is going on, all
your enemies, reassured by your arrest, will be at a grand soiree
given by Baron Trigault. I shall be there as well."
Mademoiselle Marguerite had mastered her momentary weakness. She
rose to her feet, and in a firm voice exclaimed: "You have acted
rightly."
"Ah! there was no other way. And yet I wished to see you, to
learn if this course were too repugnant to you."
She interrupted him with a gesture. "When shall I be arrested?"
she asked, quietly.
"This evening or to-morrow." was his answer.
"Very well! I have only one request to make. The Fondeges have a
son who has no hand in the affair, but who will be more severely
punished than his parents, if we do not spare them. Could you
not----"
"I can do nothing, Marguerite. I am powerless now."
Everything was soon arranged. Marguerite raised her forehead to
Pascal for his parting kiss, and went away accompanied by Madame
Ferailleur, who escorted her to the corner of the Rue Boursault.
The General and his wife had returned home in advance of
Marguerite.
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