"Your despair distresses me—and yet listen, Marion. It is not merely the friend, the old friend that the assassin struck at—"
"For twenty-three years we never left each other's side, Eustace and I," Marion mumbled moaning.
"No, it is not the friend only that the monster struck in striking you, it was also, and perhaps especially, the Chief of Gaul and general of the army that he aimed at. The mysterious cause of this crime may be of deep interest to the country's future. The mystery must be fathomed, uncovered—"
"Schanvoch, you do not know Eustace. He cared little, I know, whether or not I was Chief of Gaul or general of the army. Moreover, what does that concern me—now, when I am about to live in yonder new worlds? All I ask of you is that you grant me this last request—do not denounce my friend Eustace. I implore you with clasped hands—"
"Granted! I shall keep the secret, but under one condition, that you inform me how the crime was committed."
"How can you have the heart to drive such a bargain—the peace of mind—a dying man—"
"The welfare of Gaul may be at stake, I tell you! Everything points to an infernal plot in this dark affair, the first victims of which were Victorin and his son. That is why I insist upon learning from you the details of this atrocious murder."
"Schanvoch—a minute ago I could still distinguish your face—the color of your clothes—now I see before me only a vague shape. Make haste, make haste!"
"Answer—how was the crime committed? By Hesus, tell me, and I swear to you I shall keep the secret—not otherwise."
"Schanvoch—my good friend—"