Without replying, Andrea tore the order into pieces and tossed them into the fire.
"Try it," she said.
Gilbert uttered an outcry.
"Doctor Gilbert," said she, "I have given up the idea of suicide, but not of dying. I long for death."
Gilbert let a groan escape him.
"All that I ask of you is that you will save my body from outrage after death—it has not escaped it in life. Count Charny rests in the family vault at Boursonnes. There I spent the happiest days of my life, and I wish to repose by him."
"Oh, in Heaven's name, I implore you—"
"And I implore you in the name of my sorrow—"
"It is well, lady; you were right in saying that I am bound to obey you in all points. I go, but I am not vanquished."
"Do not forget my last wish."