Le Gardeur
struggled violently to break through a number of those who
interposed between him and Deschenaux, who, roused to frenzy by the
insult from Le Gardeur, had also drawn his sword, and stood ready to
receive the assault of his antagonist.
The Intendant, whose courage and presence of mind never forsook him,
pulled Deschenaux down upon his seat and held fast his sword arm,
shouting in his ear,--
"Are you mad, Deschenaux? You knew she was his sister, and how he
worships her! Retract the toast--it was inopportune! Besides,
recollect we want to win over De Repentigny to the Grand Company!"
Deschenaux struggled for a minute, but the influence of the
Intendant was all-powerful over him. He gave way. "Damn De
Repentigny," said he, "I only meant to do honor to the pretty witch.
Who would have expected him to take it up in that manner?"
"Any one who knows him; besides," continued the Intendant, "if you
must toast his sister, wait till we get him body and soul made over
to the Grand Company, and then he will care no more for his sister's
fame than you do for yours.
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