"But, in my turn, I ask your pardon
for my weakness. This revelation--so sudden, so unexpected--has confused
me. I confess that I have not the courage to go for Fleur-de-Marie--my
agitation would alarm her."
"And how was she saved?" cried Rudolph. "See my ingratitude. I have not yet
asked you this question."
"At the moment she was drowning, she was rescued from a watery grave by a
courageous woman."
"Do you know her?"
"To-morrow she will come to see me."
"The debt is immense," said the prince, "but I shall know how to pay it."
"What a happy circumstance, my God! that I did not bring Fleur-de-Marie
with me," said the marchioness; "this scene would have been fatal to her."
"It is true, madame," said Murphy; "it is a providential chance that she is
not here."
"Now," said the prince, who had for a few moments been endeavoring to
conquer his emotions, "now I have self-command, I assure you. Murphy, go
and seek _my daughter._" These words, _my daughter_, were
pronounced by the prince with an accent we will not attempt to express.
"Are you quite sure of yourself?" said Clemence. "No imprudence."
"Oh! be tranquil. I know the danger there would be for her--I will not
expose her to it. My good Murphy, I entreat you--go--go!"
"Reassure yourself, madame," answered the squire, who had attentively
observed the prince; "she can come. My lord will restrain himself.
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