"Yes, and you will obtain it; trust yourself to me, madame. I will see your judges, I will establish your rights, your illness, your grievances; but before formulating this demand," added the doctor, with hesitation, for he appreciated the delicacy of the question raised, "it is essential for David to go away."
At these words, Marie trembled with surprise and distress; with her eyes fixed on those of Doctor Dufour, she tried to divine his thought, unable to comprehend why he, David's best friend, should insist upon his going away.
"Separate us from M. David," said she finally, "at the time my son has so much need of his care?"
"Madame, believe me, the departure of David is essential. David himself realises it, because he has resolved to go."
"M. David!"
"I have his word."
"It is impossible!"
"I have his word, madame."
"He! he! abandon us at such a time!"
"In order to save you and your son."