"I am a Frenchman."
There was a pause. The Emperor was evidently pleased with the answer. He said:
"Still, as you say that no link attaches you . . ."
"That is, one, Sire, which nothing can sever." And he added, laughing, "I am dead as a man, but alive as a Frenchman. I am sure that Your Imperial Majesty will understand."
The Emperor took a few steps up and down. Then he said:
"I should like to pay my debt, however. I heard that the negotiations for the grand-duchy of Veldenz were broken off. . . ."
"Yes, Sire, Pierre Leduc was an imposter. He is dead."
"What can I do for you? You have given me back those letters. . . . You have saved my life. . . . What can I do?"
"You insist upon my remaining your debtor?"