Why was it not so? The strength of my constitution,
my physician tells me, was all that saved me; but I believe that heaven
wishes me to live, that I may drink to the bitter dregs my cup of
humiliation."
He stopped suddenly, nearly choked by a flow of blood that rose to his
mouth.
The investigating magistrate remained standing near the table, almost
afraid to move.
After a few moments' rest, the count found relief, and
continued,--"Unhappy man that I am! ought I not to have expected it?
Everything comes to light sooner or later. I am punished for my great
sin,--pride. I thought myself out of reach of the thunderbolt; and I
have been the means of drawing down the storm upon my house. Albert an
assassin! A Viscount de Commarin arraigned before a court of assize! Ah,
sir, punish me, also; for I alone and long ago, laid the foundation of
this crime. Fifteen centuries of spotless fame end with me in infamy."
M. Daburon considered Count de Commarin's conduct unpardonable, and had
determined not to spare him.
He had expected to meet a proud, haughty noble, almost unmanageable; and
he had resolved to humble his arrogance.
Perhaps the harsh treatment he had received of old from the Marchioness
d'Arlange had given him, unconsciously, a slight grudge against the
aristocracy.
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