"Marry her!—I?" cried the General, astonished.
"What is there to prevent your doing so?"
"The past, my dear sister. To speculate upon my title and my rank in order to make a wealthy marriage? To quit my nomad's tent for a fixed residence other than that where the Prerolles have succeeded one another from generation to generation? Never! Of all our ancient prejudices, that is the only one I cherish. Besides, I am free at present to serve my country under any form of government which it may please her to adopt. But, with his hereditary estates lost, through his own fault, shall he who has nothing left to him but his name form a mere branch of another family? He has no right to do so."
This declaration was categorical. Madame de Montgeron bent her head; her jesting vein was quenched in a moment.
After a moment of silence the Duke spoke.
"There are scruples that one does not discuss," he said. "But, on the other hand, if I do not deceive myself, there are others which can be adjusted to suit circumstances."
"What circumstances?" said the General.
"The subject is rather delicate—especially to mention before you, my dear Jeanne."
"I was just about to propose that I should retire," said the Duchess.
"Good-night, Henri!" And she bent to kiss him.
"You are not vexed?" said her brother, embracing her tenderly.