The Emperors set face and firm manner showed it was hopeless, and yet my cousin persevered as no one but a woman who pleads for her lover would have dared to do.
'He is harmless, Sire.'
'His death will frighten others.'
'Spare him and I will answer for his loyalty.'
'What you ask is impossible.'
Constant and I raised her from the ground.
'That is right, Monsieur de Laval,' said the Emperor. 'This interview can lead to nothing. Remove your cousin from the room!'
But she had again turned to him with a face which showed that even now all hope had not been abandoned.
'Sire,' she cried. 'You say that an example must be made. There is Toussac—!'
'Ah, if I could lay my hands upon Toussac!'