"I admit that; although this love did not prevent her from trying to force Valentine into an obnoxious marriage. Monsieur d'Epinay was of an old aristocratic family, and that was why the old lady thought he would be a good match for her granddaughter. No, they were all selfish, and Valentine can congratulate herself for not being like them."
The entrance of the servant, who announced the arrival of Monsieur de Flambois and Monsieur d'Avigny, put an end to the conversation. The old physician immediately conducted Monsieur de Flambois to the bedside of his patient, whose eyes lighted up when he recognized the district-attorney.
"Monsieur de Villefort," began the district-attorney, bowing low, "you desired to speak to me to tell me something important. Do you wish our interview to be private?"
"No," said Villefort, solemnly. "I desire Monsieur d'Avigny to remain and act as a witness."
The physician seated himself on the bed, while Monsieur de Flambois took up a position at the writing desk.
"Monsieur de Villefort, we are ready."
"Gentlemen," said the sick man, in a clear, firm voice, "thanks to me and thanks to my wife, Heloise de Villefort, my family name has become infamous and I am not surprised my father no longer wishes to bear it."
"But, Monsieur de Villefort," interrupted the official.
"Let me speak. What would you think of a man who, to save himself, condemns another in cold blood to imprisonment for life."