"I see very plainly what effect this will have on my peace," said Claire
sadly. "When my grandmother learns that I have not received your homage,
she will be very angry."
"You misjudge me, mademoiselle," interrupted M. Daburon. "I have nothing
to say to the marchioness. I will retire, and all will be concluded. No
doubt she will think that I have altered my mind!"
"Oh! you are good and generous, I know!"
"I will go away," pursued M. Daburon; "and soon you will have forgotten
even the name of the unfortunate whose life's hopes have just been
shattered."
"You do not mean what you say," said the young girl quickly.
"Well, no. I cherish this last illusion, that later on you will remember
me with pleasure. Sometimes you will say, 'He loved me,' I wish all the
same to remain your friend, yes, your most devoted friend."
Claire, in her turn, clasped M. Daburon's hands, and said with great
emotion:--"Yes, you are right, you must remain my friend. Let us forget
what has happened, what you have said to-night, and remain to me, as in
the past, the best, the most indulgent of brothers."
Darkness had come, and she could not see him; but she knew he was
weeping, for he was slow to answer.
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