Cinq-Mars smiled sadly, but not bitterly, for he no longer belonged to this earth. Then, looking contemptuously at Richelieu, “I surrender because I wish to die, but I am not conquered.”
The Cardinal clenched his fist with passion; but he restrained his fury. “Who are your accomplices?” he demanded. Cinq-Mars looked steadfastly at Louis, and half opened his lips to speak. The King bent down his head, and felt at that moment a torture unknown to all other men.
“I have none,” said Cinq-Mars, pitying the King; and he slowly left the apartment. He stopped in the first gallery. Fabert and all the gentlemen rose on seeing him. He walked up to the commander, and said:
“Sir, order these gentlemen to arrest me!”
They looked at each other, without daring to approach him.
“Yes, sir, I am your prisoner; yes, gentlemen, I am without my sword, and I repeat to you that I am the King’s prisoner.”
“I do not understand what I see,” said the General; “there are two of you who surrender, and I have no instruction to arrest any one.”
“Two!” said Cinq-Mars; “the other is doubtless De Thou. Alas! I recognize him by this devotion.”
“And had I not also guessed your intention?” exclaimed the latter, coming forward, and throwing himself into his arms.