I found
myself there before I thought. It was the wit, wine, and
enchantments of Bigot, I suppose,--and the greatest temptation of
all, a woman's smiles,--that led me to take the wrong turn, as you
call it. There, you have my confession!--and I would put my sword
through any man but you, Pierre, who dared ask me to give such an
account of myself. I am ashamed of it all, Pierre Philibert!"
"Thanks, Le Gardeur, for your confidence. I hope you will outride
this storm!" He held out his hand, nervous and sinewy as that of
Mars. Le Gardeur seized it, and pressed it hard in his. "Don't you
think it is still able to rescue a friend from peril?" added
Philibert smiling.
Le Gardeur caught his meaning, and gave him a look of unutterable
gratitude. "Besides this hand of mine, are there not the gentler
hands of Amelie to intercede for you with your better self?" said
Philibert.
"My dear sister!" interjected Le Gardeur. "I am a coward when I
think of her, and I shame to come into her pure presence."
"Take courage, Le Gardeur! There is hope where there is shame of
our faults.
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