We two who loved her, youth and man, rich and powerful, or poor and fugitive, felt the passionate need of protecting her.
"She wouldn't accept them if she knew it."
"Neither would the marquis," said De Chaumont. "The Marquis de Ferrier might live on the estates his lifetime without any interference. But if he will see the emperor, and I can't prevent it any other way, I shall have to tell him!"
"Yes, you will have to tell him!"
I thought of Eagle in the village, and the old woman who blessed her a quarter of an hour, and Paul standing on the seat to be worshiped. How could I go to America and leave her? And what could I do for her when a rich man like De Chaumont was powerless?
"Can't you see Napoleon," I suggested, "and ask him to give the marquis a moment's private audience, and accept his thanks?"
"No!" groaned De Chaumont. "He wouldn't do it. I couldn't put myself in such a position!"
"If Napoleon came in so hurriedly he may not show himself in the state apartments to-night."
"But he is accessible, wherever he is. He doesn't deny himself to the meanest soldier. Why should he refuse to see a noble of the class he is always conciliating when he can?"
"Introduce me to the Marquis de Ferrier," I finally said, "and let me see if I can talk against time while you get your emperor out of his way."