by a party of soldiers, terror prevented them from replying quickly to their questions,—and this noble marshal, this gay, gallant, amiable man, this bel esprit, who writes verses, beats his enemies and makes netting, this tender-hearted man who sheds tears if I suffer from headache, this hateful monster caused mother and children to be shot, while he blows a feather from his uniform with infinite grace!"
"Lady!" screamed the Marshal starting up, Edmond stepped back, the footstool was upset and the whole company rose from their card-tables at this sudden uproar.
"Is it not true," said Christine passionetely while she stood in the middle of the room, "that such conduct is great, heroic and noble? have our enlightened times come, that we should experience such things? oh, monster! dare you mention the words friendship and love? have you the arrogance to wish to pass for estimable and benevolent? yes, you are also a contemptible creature like your despicable associates,
