I can still see
the dark fire of his eyes. No, he will never accept a compromise. He
will have all or nothing; and I cannot say that he is wrong. If you
resist, he will attack you without the slightest consideration. Strong
in his rights, he will cling to you with stubborn animosity. He will
drag you from court to court; he will not stop short of utter defeat or
complete triumph."
Accustomed to absolute obedience from his son, the old nobleman was
astounded at this unexpected obstinacy.
"What is your object in saying all this?" he asked.
"It is this, sir. I should utterly despise myself, if I did not spare
your old age this greatest of calamities. Your name does not belong to
me; I will take my own. I am your natural son; I will give up my place
to your legitimate son. Permit me to withdraw with at least the honour
of having freely done my duty. Do not force me to wait till I am driven
out in disgrace."
"What!" cried the count, stunned, "you will abandon me? You refuse to
help me, you turn against me, you recognize the rights of this man in
spite of my wishes?"
Albert bowed his head. He was much moved, but still remained firm.
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