"Ferdinand," she began aimlessly.
"Yes, Ferdinand, following the generous impulses of his heart—or—for some reason—which—Well, Ferdinand cannot think and act as we do—because he has lived—has been the slave of his passions. Indeed, his life resembles, in certain respects that of the impostor whom he supports. He also lived for a period obscurely and in London, forming there ties with a woman of the people. You remember Amy Brown and the children she bore him. When one's antecedents have not been of a licit character, one is predisposed to make extraordinary excuses for others. You and I are not of that kind, Thérèse. We may proudly hold up our heads. Ferdinand has decided to believe that your brother lives, and, in consequence, places faith in whatever impostor raises his head, saying that one among them is Charles Louis."
The Duchess trembled, notwithstanding her attempted impassivity.
"My father," resumed the Duke, "alarmed at his attitude, has remonstrated with him but to no purpose other than that of prevailing upon him to cease making public display of his opinions. He therefore no longer proclaims them from the house-top. You, Thérèse, employing the influence with which your virtues invest you, must caution Ferdinand and his wife, Caroline, against indiscretions. Insist that the members of the royal family must act in harmony. What would be the consequence of the slightest admission?" And, as she remained silent, he added, "You do not answer."
"Yes, yes, I am about to answer. For three nights I have not slept and for three days I have prayed continually. O, if among those who assume my brother's name, there be one who presents proofs,—do you hear?—irrefutable proofs, to such a one we have no right to apply the epithet impostor. If he bear incontestable documentary evidence, should we longer doubt? You know well that Charles Louis's death certificate has never been found. The copy which exists is not authentic."
Lowering her voice still more, even though aware that they could not be overheard, she continued:
"You know also that I went incognito to the Hospital of Incurables and interviewed the cobbler's wife. Notwithstanding my disguise, the unfortunate woman knew me and said: 'I am not insane. They have placed me here to silence me. The boy lives.'"
The Duke paced feverishly up and down.
"There are a thousand testimonials and asseverations by conscientious persons who have recognized this claimant. He says things which only my brother can say. And as the time has come to speak the whole truth, I shall tell you that he has written to me. His letter has rested here three days; it burns like a live coal. It burns my fingers and my heart."
She pulled the paper from her bosom and placed it before him.