"Yes."
The vicomte knelt. From time to time he made a passionate gesture. It was not a long confession, but it was compact and telling.
"Absolvo te," murmured Brother Jacques mechanically, gazing toward Heaven.
Immediately the solemnity of the moment was jarred by a laugh. The vicomte was standing, all piety gone from his face; and a rollicking devil shone from his eyes.
"Now, my curious friend," tapping the astonished priest on the breast, "I have buried my secret beneath this black gown; tell it if you dare."
"You have tricked me in the name of God?" horrified.
"Self-preservation; your knowledge forced me to it. And it was a pretty trick, you will admit, casuist that you are."
"And if I should break my vows?" furiously.
"Break your vows and I promise to kill you out of hand."
"From behind?"