"'Because I wished to withdraw her from your criminal pursuit.'
"'Criminal?... How was my pursuit criminal? I wished to marry her.'
"'You have not the right.'
"'What do you say? I haven't a right to marry?'
"'No, you have not. You are married already.'
"'It is false.'
"'I have the proof in my possession—a letter from your wife.' Then I told him what I knew of his history, and ended thus: 'You have hitherto gone from one crime to another. It is time for you to reform. Promise to begin a new life, and I pledge my word to keep what I know to myself.'
"'I promise—humble myself—and to you!... There is one man too many in the world, you or I. By heaven! this must be ended.'
"I heard no more. Before I could ward off the blow, he hit me, causing the wound you see on my head. Then he continued striking me with diabolical fury. I could not defend myself, but called for help. Two men heard me in the mill, and came running with all their might. As soon as Durand saw them, he fled I know not where. I beg he may not be pursued; the crime is too serious."
Louis had ended his account.