I know,
so far as I am concerned, that the rank of brigadier-general--"
"You mean colonel."
"No, monsieur le marquis; Charette made me a colonel. The rank I
mention cannot be denied me. I am not arguing for myself, I speak for
my brave brothers-in-arms, whose services ought to be recorded. Your
signature and your promise will suffice them for the present; though,"
he added, in a low voice, "I must say they are satisfied with very
little. But," he continued, raising his voice, "when the sun rises on
the chateau of Versailles to glorify the return of the monarchy after
the faithful have conquered France, /in France/, for the king, will
they obtain favors for their families, pensions for widows, and the
restitution of their confiscated property? I doubt it. But, monsieur
le marquis, we must have certified proof of our services when that
time comes. I will never distrust the king, but I do distrust those
cormorants of ministers and courtiers, who tingle his ears with talk
about the public welfare, the honor of France, the interests of the
crown, and other crochets. They will sneer at a loyal Vendean or a
brave Chouan, because he is old and the sword he drew for the good
cause dangles on his withered legs, palsied with exposure. Can you say
that we are wrong in feeling thus?"
"You talk well, Monsieur du Vissard, but you are over hasty," replied
the marquis.
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