"But you said to yourself, 'General Pichegru is brave and he will understand that it requires a certain degree of courage to do what I am doing; perhaps he will not shoot me, though he may refuse; and then he will send me back to the prince with his refusal.'"
"That is also true; but I hope that after having heard me—"
"After having heard you there is just one case in which I shall have you shot; of that I warn you."
"What is that?"
"If you should put a price on my treason."
"Or your devotion."
"We will not discuss the words, but the thing. Are you disposed to answer all my questions?"
"I am, general."
"I am going to cross-examine you, I warn you."
"Go on."