You can draw shrewd conclusions as to
the ordinary events of human life, but not on those of passion.
Perhaps that is why you inspire me with such repulsion. As you are so
clear-sighted, you may be able to tell me why a man from whom I
separated myself violently two days ago now wishes me to meet him in a
house at Florigny on the road to Mayenne."
At this avowal, which seemed to escape her with a recklessness that
was not unnatural in so passionate a creature, Corentin flushed, for
he was still young; but he gave her a sidelong penetrating look,
trying to search her soul. The girl's artlessness was so well played,
however, that she deceived the spy, and he answered with crafty
good-humor, "Shall I accompany you at a distance? I can take a few
solders with me, and be ready to help and obey you."
"Very good," she said; "but promise me, on your honor,--no, I don't
believe in it; by your salvation,--but you don't believe in God; by
your soul,--but I don't suppose you have any! what pledge /can/ you
give me of your fidelity? and yet you expect me to trust you, and put
more than my life--my love, my vengeance--into your hands?"
The slight smile which crossed the pallid lips of the spy showed
Mademoiselle de Verneuil the danger she had just escaped. The man,
whose nostrils contracted instead of dilating, took the hand of his
victim, kissed it with every mark of the deepest respect, and left the
room with a bow that was not devoid of grace.
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