love thee in eternity as thou deserv'st to be loved on earth, thou sublime creature!"
"But, he added, taking again the hand of Guidon, "I would wish to love thee, my Blandine, whilst ever continuing also to cherish this one, this child of delight! Yes, to remain myself, Blandine, not to change! To remain faithful unto the end to my true and legitimate nature! Had I to live again it is thus that I would love, even were I to suffer as much, or even more, than I have suffered; yes, Blandine, my sister, my only woman friend, even if I were to cause thee suffering even as I have done! And blessed be our death to all three, Blandine, for we shall only precede thee a short time out of this world. Blessed be our martyrdom, which shall redeem, enfranchise, and exalt at last all loves!"
Then, his lips joining again the lips of the boy, which were eagerly presented to him, Guidon and Henry mingled their breath in a supreme kiss.
Blandine closed the eyes of both; then stoically, at once pagan and saint, she uttered precursory prayers for the New Revelation, having no longer consciousness of aught terrestrial or temporary, save an infinite void
