He spoke in so resolute a voice that Jorancé stood undecided and Marthe herself was shaken. Was he stating the truth? Was it simply a misunderstanding that divided them?
Le Corbier guessed the tragedy and, attacking Philippe in his turn, said:
"So, monsieur, I must look for no enlightenment on the point to which you drew my attention? And it is you yourself, is it not, who, by your definite attitude, close the discussion?"
"Yes," replied Philippe, firmly.
"No," protested Marthe, returning to the charge with indefatigable vigour. "No, it is not finished, monsieur le ministre; it cannot finish like this. My husband, whether he meant to or not, has uttered words which we have all interpreted in the same sense. If there is a misunderstanding, let it be dispelled now. And there is only one person who can do so. That person is here. I ask to have that person called in."
"I don't know what you mean," stammered Philippe.
"Yes, you do, Philippe. You know to whom I refer and all the proofs that give me the right to ..."
"Silence, Marthe," commanded Philippe, beside himself.
"Then confess. If not, I swear that ..."