PAUL.
You have seen her, then?
LA ROCHE.
Yes--here, within an hour.
PAUL.
She is here now, within call--?
[LA ROCHEJACQUELEIN _makes sign of assent_. PAUL _kneels at his
feet_.]
My God! In pity's name, let me see her once again.
LA ROCHE.
And so re-open the old wounds?--re-awaken hope, but to deepen her
despair?
PAUL.
[_Rising slowly_.]
No, no! You're right. I will not purchase joy at the cost of pain to
her!--Call your guards. I die happy, knowing she'll remember me with
love.
LA ROCHE.
For her sake renounce rebellion, and I unite you both forever.
PAUL.
Better I should never see her face again than be unworthy of her love.
LA HOGUE.
Great Caesar! Here's an eagle facing death in loyalty to carrion
crows!--The noble bird is mad! We must not kill, but cure him.
LA ROCHE.
What do you propose?
LA HOGUE.
Put him on parole. Let him give his word that he'll not fight until
he's exchanged.
LA ROCHE.
True! Captain Kauvar, you are a prisoner of war, a man of proven
honour.--Give me your word that you will not lift your sword against
the King, till you're exchanged, and you're paroled and free.
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