"It is true, true, true," moaned Germain. "I may not deny it—the greatest crime of all my crimes."
The Admiral turned with a snort to Lecour's former companions. They were aghast.
"Had he denied it here are the proofs, absolutely beyond question!" the Admiral exclaimed, waving the Record, which he held in his hand.
"By the saints! what a conclusion," Bellecour exclaimed, curling his lip. As for Grancey he slowly turned his back, threw himself down on the straw on his face, and did not move. The Admiral again faced Germain.
"Shall I tell you something?"
Lecour's heart leaped. His eyes bespoke his suspense. Everything this man had to say seemed of such import that what went before faded for the moment.
"She is here."
"Here? Merciful God! alas, alas, poor Cyrène!"
The Admiral allowed him some moments. Ultimately he said, eyeing him keenly—
"You love her—would you like to save her?"