]
And Diane--where is she? But now within my reach--almost in my
arms--naught between us but a promise, a mere breath--that breath as
strong as adamantine walls to part us!
JEAN.
[_Entering, sees_ PAUL _and cries out_.]
Kauvar!
PAUL.
[_Turning, starts_.]
Jean Litais!
JEAN.
You, alive?
PAUL.
My wife!--Where is she?
JEAN.
Don't ask me!
PAUL.
You promised to save her.
JEAN.
I did.--But for the burning of the Faubourg, and the attack of the
rebels, she would be alive and safe.
PAUL.
And now--?
JEAN.
She's lost!--She, with her father and the Marquis, fell into an
ambush--were fired on from every side--
PAUL.
Killed! And I am her assassin!
JEAN.
You?
PAUL.
Yes! I planned the burning of the Faubourg, placed the mines that blew
it up, and opened a way for our attack.--In serving my country, I have
killed my wife!
JEAN.
You are a soldier, then,--one of the blues?
PAUL.
Yes--and captured there at dawn. [_Points at the Faubourg_.
JEAN.
And not shot?
PAUL.
No--paroled!--paroled!--paroled!
JEAN.
Impossible! The watchword on both sides is "No mercy."
PAUL.
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