“Baron, it is you who are first to sign.”
Lectoure immediately approached the table and signed the contract.
“Madam!” cried Marguerite, in a tone of supplication, and advancing one step toward her mother.
“Pass the pen to your betrothed, Baron,” said the marchioness.
The Baron walked round the table, and drew near to Marguerite.
“Madam!” again cried the latter, with an accent so melancholy, that it struck to the heart of every person present, and even the marquis himself raised his head.
“Sign!” said the marchioness, pointing to the marriage contract.
“Oh! my father! my father!” exclaimed Marguerite throwing herself at the feet of the marquis.
“What does this mean?” said the marchioness, leaning upon the arm of the marquis’ chair, and bending over him, “are you mad, mademoiselle?”
“My father! oh! my father!” again cried Marguerite, throwing her arms around him, “my father, have pity, save your daughter!”