“You give me life. But how did you know?”
“He wrote to me. The concierge gave me his letter, which had just come.”
“What does he say?”
Madame Cormier took the letter that Phillis handed her, but the paper shook so violently in her trembling hand that she could not read.
“Read it to me.”
Phillis took it and read
“DEAR LITTLE SISTER: After listening to my story, the judge retains
me. Soften for mamma the pain of this blow. Make her understand
that they will soon acknowledge the falseness of this accusation;
and, on your part, try to make this falseness evident, while on
mine, I will work to prove my innocence.
“Embrace poor mamma for me, and find in your tenderness, strength,
and love, some consolation for her; mine will be to think that you
are near her, dear little beloved sister.
“FLORENTIN.”
“And it is this honest boy that they accuse of assassination!” cried Madame Cormier, beginning to weep.
It required several minutes for Phillis to quiet her a little.
“We must think of him, mamma; we must not give up.”