“You have reflected well upon it?” he inquired.
“Yes, monsieur.”
“I believe you are already acquainted with my views respecting this alliance?”
“Yes, monsieur,” replied Raoul, in a low tone of voice, “but you added, that if I persisted——”
“You do persist, then?”
Bragelonne stammered out an almost unintelligible assent.
“Your passion,” continued Athos, tranquilly, “must indeed be very great, since, notwithstanding my dislike to this union, you persist in wishing it.”
Raoul passed his trembling hand across his forehead to remove the perspiration that collected there. Athos looked at him, and his heart was touched by pity. He rose and said,——
“It is no matter. My own personal feelings are not to be taken into consideration since yours are concerned; you need my assistance; I am ready to give it. Tell me what you want.”
“Your kind indulgence, first of all, monsieur,” said Raoul, taking hold of his hand.