He renewed,
then, the painful examination.
"Sir," said he, "the sentiments expressed by the viscount are very fine,
without doubt; but did he not mention Widow Lerouge?"
"Yes," replied the count, who appeared suddenly to brighten, as by the
remembrance of some unnoticed circumstances,--"yes, certainly."
"He must have shown you that this woman's testimony rendered a struggle
with M. Gerdy impossible."
"Precisely; sir; and, aside from the question of duty, it was upon that
that he based his refusal to follow my wishes."
"It will be necessary, count, for you to repeat to me very exactly all
that passed between the viscount and yourself. Appeal, then, I beseech
you, to your memory, and try to repeat his own words as nearly as
possible."
M. de Commarin could do so without much difficulty. For some little
time, a salutary reaction had taken place within him. His blood, excited
by the persistence of the examination, moved in its accustomed course.
His brain cleared itself.
The scene of the previous evening was admirably presented to his memory,
even to the most insignificant details. The sound of Albert's voice was
still in his ears; he saw again his expressive gestures.
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