"And has it not been said that if he produced the Eagle his life could be spared and he could go?"
"That is also true."
"And would it not allay the dissatisfaction of the regiment and contribute to the establishment of your authority if he gave it up?"
"My authority is established by the King."
"The maintenance of it, then. Would it not enable you to control and hold in check these people, if you could show that you had not been balked?"
"That may be," said the Marquis. "Go on."
"And, if he should produce the Eagle——"
"I would save his life, but he would be a discredited man among his comrades, if I know anything about it."
"Oh, not that, surely."
"Surely; and I may tell you that if I were in his place I would do exactly as he has done."