Chapter

  1        I|                  with his son, Monsieur Martial, and two servants.’”~ ~Here,
  2      III|                 in front of the church, Martial observed the groups of peasants
  3      III|                  Upon my word,” replied Martial, “I must confess that the
  4      III|              priest.~ ~“Besides,” added Martial, gayly, “we have been vastly
  5      III|                    Neither the duke nor Martial made any response.~ ~Even
  6      III|                 robust than his father, Martial was a no less distinguished-looking
  7       IV|             Monsieur Lacheneur——”~ ~But Martial, a closer observer than
  8       IV|                Chateau de Sairmeuse.”~ ~Martial, the precocious diplomat,
  9       IV|                 was so outrageous, that Martial, disgusted, made a sign
 10       IV|               She was so beautiful that Martial regarded her with wonder.~ ~“
 11       IV|                opportunity to say more. Martial came running after them,
 12       IV|              harsh voice interrupted.~ ~Martial turned, and saw the young
 13       IV|        principles, as well as rivals.~ ~Martial, remembering his father,
 14        V|          prevented by the appearance of Martial, whose promises he overheard.~ ~
 15        V|            himself with passion. It was Martial who lost his self-control,
 16        V|              his enemy move away.~ ~For Martial had turned and discovered
 17        V|                  Ah! it is certain that Martial, had he been within his
 18       VI|                 Maurice.~ ~“The Marquis Martial, is it not? He is also walking
 19      VII|              daughter, Mlle. Blanche.~ ~Martial could do no less than offer
 20      VII|              son again and again.~ ~But Martial responded only mechanically.
 21     VIII|             twenty-two years, and which Martial had never seen.~ ~Maurice
 22     VIII|            Never until this evening had Martial supposed he could hate another
 23       IX|                 Scarcely ten paces off, Martial de Sairmeuse was standing
 24        X|                 means of subsistence.~ ~Martial, certainly, had never said
 25        X|                 later,” he thought. “If Martial should marry, or if he should
 26        X|                If I should quarrel with Martial,” he thought, “he would
 27        X|              mental disquietude; and if Martial had possessed less penetration,
 28        X|              was kind even to weakness; Martial full of deference. But their
 29        X|                clock, he went to awaken Martial.~ ~On returning from dining
 30        X|                house in our absence.”~ ~Martial seemed engrossed in thought.~ ~“
 31        X|          chevalier is a fool!” declared Martial promptly. “He forgot that
 32        X|               has a pretty daughter.”~ ~Martial smiled without replying.~ ~“
 33        X|                with this authorization, Martial, two hours later, started
 34        X|                 your left, cross it.”~ ~Martial was crossing it, when he
 35       XI|              young girl her reputation. Martial would talk of it; and country
 36       XI|                hat, and stepping toward Martial:~ ~“You are a stranger,
 37       XI|             which precedes the storm.~ ~Martial was the first to break it.~ ~“
 38       XI|               provoking manner, and yet Martial never so much as frowned.
 39       XI|          aristocrat! Was it possible?~ ~Martial profited by the effect he
 40       XI|              not thank me,” interrupted Martial, earnestly; “it will be
 41       XI|               longer fail to comprehend Martial’s intentions. This man whom
 42       XI|               to his brain.~ ~He seized Martial by the arm, and with irresistible
 43       XI|                 was so threatening that Martial fully expected another attack.
 44       XI|                I will not permit it.”~ ~Martial had thrown aside his gun;
 45       XI|                 you this right?”~ ~From Martial’s sneering tone, Maurice
 46       XI|            gesture was his revenge upon Martial, who turned pale with passion.~ ~“
 47       XI|               hearing that he turned to Martial.~ ~“As I have had the honor
 48       XI|              proceed on our way.”~ ~But Martial detained him with a gesture.~ ~“
 49       XI|               waiting for any response, Martial, with wonderful cleverness
 50       XI|          dazzled in the least; and when Martial had concluded, he replied,
 51      XII|                 beauty is divine!”~ ~So Martial was thinking while returning
 52      XII|                was the point upon which Martial was most exercised.~ ~He
 53      XII|          neither calculate nor foresee, Martial was walking up the avenue
 54      XII|              Duc——”~ ~“Very well,” said Martial, dryly. “I am returning——”~ ~
 55      XII|                the eagerness with which Martial demanded:~ ~“How! is Mademoiselle
 56      XII|            heard nothing of the kind.~ ~Martial was silent, ashamed, perhaps,
 57      XII|             Sairmeuse, giving orders.~ ~Martial did not understand the whole
 58     XIII|                 the carriage containing Martial and his father turned from
 59     XIII|               that little Lacheneur?”~ ~Martial could not repress a start. “
 60     XIII|              Blanche de Courtornieu.”~ ~Martial made no reply. This recommendation
 61     XIII|            hands of M. de Sairmeuse and Martial, overwhelming them with
 62     XIII|              into a council chamber.”~ ~Martial shuddered at the thought
 63     XIII|                if you choose.” At least Martial understood it in that way;
 64     XIII|                 since she had not heard Martial’s footsteps approaching.~ ~
 65     XIII|               she had deigned to notice Martial—for she had remarked him—
 66     XIII|           suitor’s love into disgust.~ ~Martial advanced a few steps, and
 67     XIII|                  Mademoiselle,” replied Martial, quietly.~ ~“Is she not
 68     XIII|               only of discovering, upon Martial’s face, some indication
 69     XIII|            nobility, of being proud!”~ ~Martial made no response. He felt
 70     XIII|              She had read the letter to Martial as a test. She had not succeeded;
 71     XIII|            trembled, let go her hold on Martial’s arm, and said, very earnestly:~ ~“
 72     XIII|               prevent a meeting between Martial and Marie-Anne.~ ~She did
 73     XIII|               which had been aroused by Martial’s momentary agitation.~ ~“
 74     XIII|               crimson at the thought of Martial’s impertinent gallantry.~ ~
 75      XIV|                        CHAPTER XIV~ ~If Martial had faithfully reported
 76      XIV|             these men are mad,” thought Martial, with difficulty restraining
 77      XIV|            spent in grave reflection.~ ~Martial’s mind and person pleased
 78      XIV|               dispute the possession of Martial with her, she desired him.~ ~
 79      XIV|                 dazzle and to fascinate Martial.~ ~As to maintaining this
 80      XIV|             viscount to his neighbor.~ ~Martial yielded unresistingly to
 81      XIV|               glasses, suddenly aroused Martial from his dream of enchantment.~ ~
 82      XIV|                 be read in every eye.~ ~Martial, too, had turned so white
 83      XIV|                  The company hesitated; Martial saw it, and felt that a
 84      XIV|                  was the general cry.~ ~Martial reseated himself; Mlle.
 85      XIV|                 not my friend,” replied Martial, in a voice which revealed
 86       XV|                 was endeavoring to make Martial share were cruelly unjust.~ ~
 87       XV|                 the name of Marie-Anne, Martial de Sairmeuse and Chanlouineau
 88      XVI|                 Marquis de Sairmeuse.~ ~Martial was, perhaps, annoyed at
 89      XVI|              paused, greatly surprised; Martial, with that air of ingenuousness
 90      XVI| disinterestedness of this young man.”~ ~Martial was already far off. Had
 91     XVII|              his very door. When he saw Martial, he had a presentiment of
 92     XVII|                conference was short.~ ~“Martial, my son, possesses, in his
 93     XVII|                 diplomatic position for Martial.”~ ~“In case of trouble,
 94     XVII|          fascination which was to bring Martial to her feet.~ ~After having
 95     XVII|            divine comedy of first love! Martial could not fail to be fascinated
 96     XVII|        Sairmeuse revealed the fact that Martial was in the habit of going
 97     XVII|             power.~ ~She reflected that Martial’s position was so exalted
 98     XVII|                 her to suppose.~ ~Still Martial’s conduct during the past
 99     XVII|             which had just been sent by Martial.~ ~She took the flowers,
100     XVII|               and himself, and asked if Martial had been informed of the
101     XVII|                had reached her ears, of Martial’s frequent visits to Marie-Anne,
102     XVII|             come; then, after a little, Martial made his appearance.~ ~She
103     XVII|                 count the seconds which Martial passed with Marie-Anne.~ ~
104     XVII|                not remain long; she saw Martial hasten out after him, and
105     XVII|                 were coming. This noise Martial must have heard within the
106     XVII|               been gone some time, when Martial again appeared upon the
107     XVII|             course, ruined by them; but Martial’s visits, instead of ceasing,
108     XVII|               Chanlouineau were absent, Martial saw a man leave the house
109    XVIII|           living there.”~ ~“My God! And Martial de Sairmeuse?”~ ~“He is
110      XIX|            leaving Lacheneur’s house.~ ~Martial was not certain of it, but
111      XIX|                 not cost him a penny.~ ~Martial had supposed himself the
112      XIX|                 cruel doubts and fears, Martial, goaded to the last extremity,
113      XIX|             After this public betrothal Martial was bound to her.~ ~For
114      XIX|              her in earning a living.~ ~Martial forced himself to smile;
115      XIX|                 of the provost-marshal, Martial was a most valuable instrument.~ ~“
116      XIX|                snow, nor mud could keep Martial from the cottage.~ ~He made
117      XIX|              extend his journeys.~ ~But Martial’s conversation was generally
118      XIX|                 the courage of a lover? Martial endured all this without
119      XIX|         daughter,” said Chanlouineau.~ ~Martial took a seat at the table,
120      XIX|               shall be~ pleased.”~ ~Had Martial seen the smile upon Chanlouineau’
121      XIX|                for that little girl?”~ ~Martial did not reply. He felt that
122       XX|                of the letter written by Martial under Chanlouineau’s dictation.~ ~
123     XXII|                   It was six days since Martial had presented himself at
124     XXII|                Sairmeuse to inquire for Martial. Was he ill—had he gone
125     XXII|             Still, she was certain that Martial, on hearing what she had
126    XXIII|        revelations and the thought that Martial, the heir of his name and
127    XXIII|               what could have become of Martial? The servant who had been
128    XXIII|            Courtornieu, he learned that Martial had arrived about a quarter
129    XXIII|                 Who is there?” demanded Martial.~ ~“It is I; open the door.”~ ~
130    XXIII|                 is I; open the door.”~ ~Martial drew the bolt; M. de Sairmeuse
131    XXIII|               was a basin of blood, and Martial, with chest bared, was bathing
132    XXIII|                 the best of princes!”~ ~Martial’s face betrayed successively
133    XXIII|                    A faint flush tinged Martial’s cheek; but it was in his
134    XXIII|                 was a fruitless effort. Martial knew very well that he had
135    XXVII|        suspicion. But what could he do? Martial had concealed his wound
136    XXVII|                have consented to summon Martial on any consideration. Nor
137   XXVIII|          uprising, I persuaded Monsieur Martial to write a model. He suspected
138   XXVIII|                guess who the rider was? Martial de Sairmeuse.~ ~“To describe
139   XXVIII|         possible?”~ ~“Brave as Monsieur Martial is,” pursued Chanlouineau, “
140     XXIX|               in the room, but his son, Martial.~ ~Stretched upon a sofa,
141     XXIX|                  coldly.~ ~“Then,” said Martial, with some hesitation, “
142     XXIX|               Oh, bitter mockery!~ ~But Martial misunderstood the meaning
143     XXIX|                love of her. Now, it was Martial who avowed his willingness
144     XXIX|           almost the very same words.~ ~Martial paused, awaiting some response—
145     XXIX|               do you not answer?” asked Martial, with evident anxiety.~ ~
146     XXIX|               you hate me, then?” asked Martial, sadly.~ ~If she had allowed
147     XXIX|          quickly extinguished, shone in Martial’s eye.~ ~“Always Maurice!”
148     XXIX|               The baron is innocent.”~ ~Martial approached Marie-Anne, and
149     XXIX|                 a sign from his father, Martial left the room.~ ~“You can
150     XXIX|                 by the hand of Monsieur Martial, and I am obliged to tell
151     XXIX|            called his son.~ ~As soon as Martial entered the room:~ ~“Repeat,”
152     XXIX|         imperiously.~ ~“First,” replied Martial, lightly, “I would like
153     XXIX|               copy.~ ~“Here—read it.”~ ~Martial glanced over it, laughed
154     XXIX|                this rebellion, then?”~ ~Martial’s face grew dark, and in
155     XXIX|                    Very well,” rejoined Martial, in his usual indifferent
156     XXIX|           Marie-Anne.~ ~But this insult Martial would not tolerate.~ ~“Mademoiselle
157     XXIX|               jealousy in the look that Martial fixed upon Marie-Anne.~ ~
158     XXIX|                what have you to say?”~ ~Martial had listened to this tirade
159     XXIX|             about leaving the room, but Martial detained him by a gesture.~ ~“
160     XXIX|                so cleverly presented by Martial.~ ~“Yes,” she exclaimed, “
161     XXIX|             Marie-Anne.~ ~With a glance Martial recommended silence; then
162     XXIX|               to hope; and she saw that Martial had openly espoused her
163     XXIX|        absolutely certain.~ ~So thought Martial.~ ~“I will confer with this
164     XXIX|       grenadiers.”~ ~“Bavois,” repeated Martial, as if to fix the name in
165     XXIX|               This promises well,” said Martial. He had risen and gone to
166     XXIX|                the corner tower.”~ ~But Martial, who was not so well acquainted
167     XXIX|                 baron’s room?” inquired Martial.~ ~“It is quite large and
168     XXIX|                to explain your plan?”~ ~Martial had gradually resumed the
169     XXIX|             simplicity itself,” replied Martial. “Sixty and forty are one
170      XXX|              Marquis de Courtornieu and Martial de Sairmeuse who were talking
171      XXX|             been so entirely crushed by Martial’s revelation that he no
172      XXX|                 will be undisturbed.”~ ~Martial’s silence betrayed something
173      XXX|                sharp word, quarrel with Martial—with the only suitor who
174      XXX|                  You are young, my dear Martial.”~ ~The baron was still
175      XXX|                are only twenty, my dear Martial,” pursued the Marquis de
176      XXX|               to know who aided him.”~ ~Martial laughed.~ ~“If justice seeks
177      XXX|                would have believed that Martial would be so faithful to
178      XXX|                 carried the day, or had Martial sent someone to aid him?~ ~“
179      XXX|            understood this, had brought Martial two ropes; the one to be
180     XXXI|                  Unfortunately, neither Martial nor Marie-Anne were in a
181    XXXII|              confidence— Abbe Midon.~ ~“Martial will be afraid of the letter,”
182    XXXII|              appearance, accompanied by Martial; all frightfully angry.~ ~
183    XXXII|                 marquis and the duke.~ ~Martial noticed this look, however,
184    XXXII|               spite of his bold remark, Martial felt that he must not incur
185    XXXII|           parties who had favored it.~ ~Martial thought he knew the details
186    XXXII|          necessity of having two ropes. Martial had provided them; the prisoners
187    XXXII|                extraordinary!” murmured Martial, thoughtfully.~ ~“Very strange!”
188    XXXII|               cannot understand.”~ ~But Martial found another cause for
189    XXXII|                 rope incorrectly?~ ~But Martial had also measured it with
190    XXXII|            letter, have you not?”~ ~But Martial’s was one of those minds
191    XXXII|                 must have fallen,” said Martial, quickly, “and was dangerously
192    XXXII|                I shall be delighted!”~ ~Martial’s face turned crimson, and
193    XXXII|                of what you are saying,” Martial said, coldly. “We pledged
194   XXXIII|                 once caused the love of Martial de Sairmeuse to oscillate
195   XXXIII|          awaiting them on the rocks—for Martial knew all their plans—Mme.
196   XXXIII|                who had disappeared. And Martial asked himself again and
197   XXXIII|              superior ability,” thought Martial, “I recognize the hand of
198   XXXIII|              and the blood-stains, made Martial tremble.~ ~He had also been
199   XXXIII|                recognize this officer?” Martial eagerly inquired.~ ~And
200   XXXIII|             ropes had been deposited?~ ~Martial racked his brain to discover
201   XXXIII|                still it did not satisfy Martial.~ ~“It is very strange,”
202   XXXIII|                 Baron d’Escorval,” said Martial.~ ~Chupin trembled, he who
203   XXXIII|              services by refusing them? Martial inclined to the latter opinion.~ ~“
204   XXXIII|             make laws to protect me.”~ ~Martial comprehended the necessity
205   XXXIII|            panic he fled precipitately. Martial was stupefied with astonishment.~ ~“
206   XXXIII|                  What was to be done?~ ~Martial desired his father to resign
207    XXXIV|                    CHAPTER XXXIV~ ~That Martial de Sairmeuse was to marry
208    XXXIV|                 she had but loved him,” Martial thought, “what happiness
209    XXXIV|            audience to everybody,” said Martial.~ ~And gay and smiling he
210    XXXIV|        brilliancy.~ ~On recognizing him Martial could not restrain an exclamation
211    XXXIV|             arrest me if you choose.”~ ~Martial’s face crimsoned at the
212    XXXIV|                     With an eager hand, Martial broke the seal. He glanced
213    XXXIV|                  With a terrible effort Martial had conquered his weakness.
214    XXXIV|                  Come—you shall see.”~ ~Martial’s countenance had changed
215    XXXIV|                 end of the main hall.~ ~Martial hastened there, followed
216    XXXIV|                  With a rapid movement, Martial tore the paper from the
217    XXXIV|                you will ruin us!”~ ~But Martial seemed not even to hear
218    XXXIV|                 old nobleman, coldly.~ ~Martial lifted his hand; everyone
219    XXXIV|             sank into an arm-chair, and Martial, still holding Jean Lacheneur
220    XXXIV|           recognize?”~ ~Beside himself, Martial pushed his wife roughly
221    XXXVI|                had played with Maurice, Martial, and Chanlouineau?~ ~As
222   XXXVII|            XXXVII~ ~When Abbe Midon and Martial de Sairmeuse held their
223   XXXVII|                 Return my letter,” said Martial, “and I will save the baron.”~ ~“
224   XXXVII|               shall be returned.”~ ~But Martial’s was one of those natures
225   XXXVII|             imminent, the time limited; Martial’s tone betrayed an inflexible
226   XXXVII|                pocket and handing it to Martial:~ ~“Here it is, Monsieur,”
227   XXXVII|               not make up his mind that Martial was guilty of the execrable
228   XXXVII|             celebrating the marriage of Martial de Sairmeuse and Blanche
229   XXXVII|                 I will go and challenge Martial now, on the instant, in
230  XXXVIII|              gloom over the nuptials of Martial and Mlle. Blanche de Courtornieu.~ ~
231  XXXVIII|                   As for believing that Martial, triumphant and happy, would
232  XXXVIII|            believe it.~ ~While awaiting Martial in the vestibule of the
233  XXXVIII|               had come to insult.~ ~But Martial’s kindly greeting had disconcerted
234  XXXVIII|              quick,” he thought.~ ~When Martial seized him by the arm and
235  XXXVIII|              the little salon.~ ~He saw Martial de Sairmeuse, frantic with
236  XXXVIII|                attempted to detain him, Martial again seized Jean Lacheneur’
237  XXXVIII|               of going to the vestibule Martial took a candle that was burning
238  XXXVIII|              inquired Jean Lacheneur.~ ~Martial, who had already ascended
239  XXXVIII|             They entered the room which Martial had occupied since taking
240  XXXVIII|               many a novel in secret.~ ~Martial hastened to a small writing-desk,
241  XXXVIII|              may appear to one who knew Martial’s proud and violent nature,
242  XXXVIII|               insult.~ ~“But,” insisted Martial, “after what you have just
243  XXXVIII|                resignation displayed by Martial de Sairmeuse.~ ~Instead
244  XXXVIII|                this manifest injustice, Martial drew from his pocket the
245  XXXVIII|         alliance, it seems to me,” said Martial, gently.~ ~Jean Lacheneur
246  XXXVIII|               darkness.~ ~“Jean,” cried Martial, in almost supplicating
247  XXXVIII|             calmly.~ ~Was it indeed he, Martial, the phlegmatic sceptic,
248  XXXVIII|              not been entirely wrong.~ ~Martial, who regarded the opinion
249  XXXVIII|             have departed ere this, and Martial concluded that he would
250  XXXVIII|              The valet obeyed, and soon Martial found himself alone, stretched
251  XXXVIII|          standing, blackened by fire.~ ~Martial was contemplating the ruins,
252  XXXVIII|                here early,” interrupted Martial.~ ~Maurice shrugged his
253  XXXVIII|          gesture that accompanied them, Martial never so much as winced.~ ~“
254  XXXVIII|                 all.”~ ~“Well, then?”~ ~Martial’s coolness drove Maurice
255  XXXVIII|                 A flood of crimson dyed Martial’s face. He seized one of
256  XXXVIII|                 hurled the fragments in Martial’s face, saying:~ ~“Here,
257  XXXVIII|                  And they fled, leaving Martial thunderstruck.~ ~He struggled
258  XXXVIII|                to set the example, when Martial seized him by the arm.~ ~“
259  XXXVIII|                    He hurried away, and Martial, staggering like a drunken
260    XXXIX|             CHAPTER XXXIX~ ~Terrible as Martial imagined the scandal to
261    XXXIX|           passed over the assembly when Martial, terrible in his passion,
262    XXXIX|                For twenty seconds after Martial disappeared with Jean Lacheneur,
263    XXXIX|              her hand still aching from Martial’s brutal clasp, a heart
264    XXXIX|                 whom he was most angry, Martial or the Marquis de Courtornieu.~ ~
265    XXXIX|               Marquis de Courtornieu.~ ~Martial, by this public confession,
266    XXXIX|                repentant! But where can Martial be?”~ ~The lady’s eyes flashed,
267    XXXIX|             Then, aloud, he resumed:~ ~“Martial must be found—he must be
268    XXXIX|                 I know what I know.”~ ~“Martial will soon make his appearance,
269    XXXIX|                door:~ ~“Let us speak of Martial,” she began.~ ~At the sound
270    XXXIX|               wretch!” he exclaimed.~ ~“Martial is my husband, father.”~ ~“
271    XXXIX|                 that moment the news of Martial’s death would have given
272    XXXIX|           mid-day, on the Reche. I know Martial; he has been insulted, and
273    XXXIX|                If I do that,” said he, “Martial is quite capable—”~ ~“Of
274    XXXIX|               could bring dishonor upon Martial, who had shown so little
275    XXXIX|                 the apartments in which Martial had gathered together all
276    XXXIX|                they would not encounter Martial.~ ~Where could he be? Near
277    XXXIX|              possession of her heart.~ ~Martial, at Montaignac, had ended
278    XXXIX|              they received tidings from Martial.~ ~A servant brought two
279    XXXIX|               two letters; one, sent by Martial to his father, the other,
280    XXXIX|             hundred thousand francs.~ ~“Martial de Sairmeuse.”~ ~Blanche
281       XL|                    It was very brief.~ ~Martial did not vouchsafe any explanation;
282       XL|          telling them I am going to see Martial,” he thought.~ ~He was spared
283       XL|                sad gesture, and drawing Martial’s letter from her bosom,
284       XL|              and not the next day. Tell Martial, however, that I forgive
285       XL|                least, until I have seen Martial. Perhaps he is not as culpable
286       XL|              perfidious marquis.~ ~“But Martial is a match for him!” he
287       XL|             exclaimed. “Yes, I must see Martial at once.”~ ~So great was
288       XL|                 calmly.~ ~He burst into Martial’s room like a tornado. “
289       XL|            excuse you can offer.”~ ~But Martial, who had been expecting
290       XL|           natural, even necessary, that Martial should fight with Maurice;
291       XL|               the second time,” pursued Martial, “that this scoundrel has
292       XL|              imperceptible smile curved Martial’s lips.~ ~“I believe, on
293       XL|               afraid of Courtornieu.”~ ~Martial remained thoughtful.~ ~“
294      XLI|       presentiment told her that it was Martial de Sairmeuse who had shaken
295      XLI|        whispered an inward voice, “that Martial is thus working. What does
296      XLI|                but feel her aversion to Martial diminish.~ ~Was not such
297      XLI|                the feeling that induced Martial to reveal a secret which
298     XLII|        condemned her to solitude, while Martial was free to rove wheresoever
299     XLII|               ruined him, since it gave Martial time to perfect his plans
300     XLII|              too well.~ ~She recognized Martial’s hand in all this, as Marie-Anne
301     XLII|                 moment, and a word from Martial, decided him.~ ~He sent
302     XLII|             turn public opinion against Martial, she must improvise for
303     XLII|             Montaignac? Was he watching Martial as he had promised? How
304     XLII|              her husband from her, that Martial and Marie-Anne loved each
305    XLIII|                 woman who has alienated Martial’s heart from me!” she exclaimed. “
306    XLIII|           lightly. Do not lose sight of Martial. If he goes to the Borderie,
307    XLIII|          emerged from the retreat where Martial had deemed it prudent to
308    XLIII|              relations existing between Martial and Marie-Anne in the past,
309    XLIII|              account of everything that Martial had done, he told her anything
310    XLIII|               you are a fool. Yesterday Martial and Marie-Anne spent a quarter
311     XLIV|              three lovers—Chanlouineau, Martial, and Maurice. The calumny
312     XLIV|             amazement.~ ~She recognized Martial’s handwriting. So he had
313     XLIV|                 reply before acting.~ ~“Martial de Sairmeuse.”~ ~Marie-Anne’
314     XLIV|                was the second time that Martial had astonished her by the
315     XLIV|                  protected her still.~ ~Martial de Sairmeuse had sacrificed
316     XLIV|            deepest distrust.~ ~“What if Martial’s offer is only a trap?”
317     XLIV|           Marie-Anne, fortunately, knew Martial’s letter by heart.~ ~The
318     XLIV|              though she no longer hated Martial, he was perfectly indifferent
319     XLIV|                she said to herself that Martial would undoubtedly wound
320     XLIV|               in this she was mistaken. Martial was greatly agitated, but
321     XLIV|               baron.~ ~“I was sure that Martial would agree to everything;
322     XLIV|            driving away the thoughts of Martial, which haunted her.~ ~So
323      XLV|               set teeth. “Who knows but Martial and Marie-Anne are there
324      XLV|            murmured Blanche, bitterly; “Martial is such a chilly person!”~ ~
325      XLV|                astray.~ ~She remembered Martial’s fastidious tastes, and
326      XLV|            themselves. Now, I recognize Martial’s astonishing talent for
327      XLV|                in proving the extent of Martial’s love for a hated rival,
328      XLV|              whom could she expect save Martial? The person who had been
329      XLV|                 thought made her pause. Martial would return with Marie-Anne;
330      XLV|                 he!” Blanche translated Martial.~ ~Yes, it was the Marquis
331     XLVI|              her brother, Chanlouineau, Martial!~ ~Martial, this name was
332     XLVI|                Chanlouineau, Martial!~ ~Martial, this name was more than
333     XLVI|           suffer, you who have inspired Martial with the odious courage
334     XLVI|                to deny that you are not Martial’s mistress!”~ ~“The Marquis
335     XLVI|          pitiless.~ ~“You have not seen Martial! Tell me, then, who gave
336     XLVI|              wretched woman—my husband, Martial!”~ ~Marie-Anne was considering
337    XLVII|              the kindly intervention of Martial de Sairmeuse.~ ~At last,
338    XLVII|                And coldly, he added:~ ~“Martial de Sairmeuse is the assassin.”
339    XLVII|             because you are ignorant of Martial’s wild passion for Marie-Anne.
340    XLVII|                     Is it possible that Martial assassinated Chupin after
341    XLVII|             exclaimed. “Maurice, it was Martial de Sairmeuse who caused
342    XLVII|                he cried:~ ~“Up! here is Martial, Marie-Anne’s murderer!
343    XLVII|            priest had time to say more, Martial was there.~ ~He did not
344    XLVII|                s name!”~ ~Instinctively Martial recoiled.~ ~“It was you,
345    XLVII|              the rivals, persuaded that Martial was about to attack Maurice.~ ~
346    XLVII|                the window, the abbe saw Martial remount his horse.~ ~But
347   XLVIII|           Marie-Anne. I thought she was Martial’s mistress. I was half crazed,
348   XLVIII|                alone would have brought Martial there.~ ~She almost decided
349   XLVIII|              help saying to herself:~ ~“Martial’s presence here is incomprehensible.”~ ~
350   XLVIII|                to ask him for them; and Martial was obliged to apply to
351   XLVIII|                s papers.~ ~This was why Martial said to himself that morning:~ ~“
352   XLVIII|            terrible blow it had been to Martial; and his conscience told
353   XLVIII|            could forgive me?” stammered Martial.~ ~The wily enchantress
354   XLVIII|              eloquent of replies.~ ~But Martial said no more on this subject.
355   XLVIII|                rode back to Montaignac, Martial’s thoughts were busy.~ ~“
356   XLVIII|               on the public square when Martial passed through the village.
357   XLVIII|              less than the visits which Martial was paying to Mme. Blanche.~ ~
358     XLIX|                 the priest.~ ~Thanks to Martial de Sairmeuse they were now
359        L|                             CHAPTER L~ ~Martial de Sairmeuse’s unexpected
360        L|             salon, in which Blanche and Martial were seated.~ ~The conversation
361        L|               root in her brain.~ ~When Martial left the room, Aunt Medea
362        L|                 that Marie-Anne was not Martial’s mistress, but Martial
363        L|                 Martial’s mistress, but Martial loved her. He loved her,
364        L|                 conceived on the day of Martial’s visit.~ ~She played her
365        L|          evening of Marie-Anne’s death, Martial forgot himself, and spoke
366        L|               was necessary to persuade Martial to remove to the capital.
367       LI|              without having recourse to Martial.”~ ~After this little scene
368       LI|                 was so marked that even Martial remarked it, and as soon
369       LI|              plausible explanation that Martial took no further notice of
370       LI|                 at the Hotel Meurice.~ ~Martial scarcely took time to eat
371       LI|             months to restore it,” said Martial; “perhaps more. It is true
372      LII|                the laborers employed by Martial.~ ~“I cannot inform Madame,”
373      LII|                   Blanche! your husband—Martial! He is coming!”~ ~The game
374      LII|         re-entered the salon, she found Martial there.~ ~His head was bowed
375      LII|              happened?” she faltered.~ ~Martial did not remark her emotion.~ ~“
376      LII|               was a moment’s silence.~ ~Martial’s affection for his father
377      LII|                      Jean Lacheneur!”~ ~Martial gravely bowed his head.
378      LII|             will not demand justice?”~ ~Martial’s face grew more and more
379      LII|                 himself differently.~ ~“Martial,” said she, trying to arouse
380      LII|                from his gloomy revery, “Martial.”~ ~He did not seem to hear
381      LII|                broke the stillness save Martial’s monotonous tread, as he
382      LII|               apprehension expressed by Martial increased the fears of the
383      LII|             longer at her own disposal. Martial had returned; and they had
384      LII|              himself in the least about Martial.~ ~And the servants were
385      LII|        Sairmeuse the following morning. Martial, fortunately, was in Vienna
386     LIII|          CHAPTER LIII~ ~How was it that Martial had failed to discover or
387     LIII|               security.~ ~The life that Martial led was likely to prevent
388     LIII|                table.~ ~At twenty-five, Martial, the last descendant of
389     LIII|              decree of Providence,” and Martial would know all.~ ~Such,
390     LIII|                 Paris with Maurice, and Martial and herself.~ ~There was
391     LIII|            accomplice.”~ ~He remembered Martial’s oath at the bedside of
392      LIV|              the article consecrated to Martial de Sairmeuse in the “General
393      LIV|             life after his marriage.~ ~“Martial de Sairmeuse,” it says there, “
394      LIV|              does not state is this: if Martial was wrong— and that depends
395      LIV|                 wish for in this world, Martial was saying to himself:~ ~“
396      LIV|            almost a crime.~ ~So thought Martial; and he, the great statesman,
397      LIV|              bitterness and severity of Martial’s policy.~ ~But he, at least,
398      LIV|             seriously threatened. Still Martial realized that it would be
399      LIV|              then, to take her place.~ ~Martial went away, accompanied only
400      LIV|              believed she saw again the Martial of the little blue salon
401      LIV|              added to all the others.~ ~Martial was striving to carry his
402      LIV|                an anonymous letter, but Martial’s blood mounted to his forehead.~ ~“
403      LIV|               of the Rue du Dragon, and Martial, ashamed and irresolute,
404      LIV|                 It was the same fiacre; Martial recognized it by its green
405      LIV|                 the outer boulevards.~ ~Martial’s thoughts were busy as
406      LIV|               horse a moment?” inquired Martial.~ ~“Certainly,” answered
407      LIV|                 answered the man.~ ~Had Martial been less preoccupied, his
408      LIV|                 to the vilest ignominy, Martial in the hands of the lowest
409      LIV|           served him docilely.~ ~And if Martial followed his wife into the
410      LIV|                 sinister joy as he held Martial’s horse. “Monsieur le Duc
411      LIV|               too fine for that.”~ ~And Martial did not go in. Though he
412      LIV|      countenance.~ ~“What is it?” asked Martial, divining some great misfortune.~ ~“
413      LIV|              widow of Chupin’s son——”~ ~Martial’s face became as white as
414      LIV|                years which had silvered Martial’s hair, had not cooled the
415      LIV|                her here. Retire.”~ ~And Martial entered the chamber of Mme.
416      LIV|            dressing-table and mantel.~ ~Martial did not sit down. His self-possession
417      LIV|                    With feverish haste, Martial examined the contents. He
418      LIV|             quarter of the year 18—.”~ ~Martial’s brain reeled.~ ~A child!
419      LIV|               With a sort of cold rage, Martial continued his examination
420      LIV|            Stunned, frozen with horror, Martial scarcely had strength to
421      LIV|              which she was subjected.~ ~Martial did not leave his room;
422      LIV|           quickly followed them. It was Martial.~ ~Knowing of this rendezvous
423      LIV|             This circumstance drew from Martial an oath worthy of his costume.
424      LIV|           heralded an approaching thaw. Martial stumbled and slipped at
425      LIV|               de Sairmeuse was there!~ ~Martial cautiously approached the
426      LIV|                impression produced upon Martial was so terrible that his
427      LIV|              looking at each other; and Martial saw them exchange a significant
428      LIV|              the aid of her mistress.~ ~Martial could endure no more. He
429      LIV|               bolting it behind him.~ ~“Martial!”~ ~“Monsieur le Duc!”~ ~
430      LIV|            precipitated themselves upon Martial, determined to kill him.~ ~
431      LIV|              With a spring to one side, Martial avoided them. He had his
432      LIV|               all the furious struggle, Martial did not cease crying, in
433      LIV|             were coming! This increased Martial’s frenzy; and with one supreme
434      LIV|                 the name of the law!”~ ~Martial might have fled; but if
435      LIV|                  cried the inspector.~ ~Martial did not move; his pistol
436       LV|                relinquished all hope.~ ~Martial knew that Justice does not
437       LV|            until she has fathomed it.~ ~Martial knew, only too well, that
438       LV|                 gleam of hope illumined Martial’s heart, for in the drunken
439       LV|                lost in profiting by it. Martial stretched himself upon a
440       LV|        Lacheneur will betray me.”~ ~But Martial, though he little knew it,
441       LV|              artist.”~ ~“Capital!” said Martial, approvingly.~ ~And then,
442       LV|              was superior to his own.~ ~Martial’s plans being fully formed,
443       LV|               the departure of Maurice, Martial attempted to destroy himself.
444       LV|                 place the next morning, Martial believed that he was saved.~ ~
445       LV|             party came out conqueror.~ ~Martial knew that Lecoq was the
446       LV|               So the weeks went by, and Martial was expecting to be summoned
447       LV|                 the twinkling of an eye Martial’s beard fell under the razor;
448       LV|           asleep.~ ~A tear glittered in Martial’s eye.~ ~“Poor, unhappy
449       LV|               Escorval.~ ~With a bound, Martial was on his feet.~ ~“Is it
450       LV|               Escorval.”~ ~For a moment Martial stood bewildered, then,
451       LV|                 your devoted friend,~ ~“Martial de Sairmeuse.”~ ~He folded
452       LV|             floor.~ ~“Lecoq!” exclaimed Martial, paler than death.~ ~“Lecoq,
453       LV|           Escorval’s writing.”~ ~And as Martial made no response:~ ~“I must