I am your natural son; I will give up my place to your legitimate son.

Permit me to withdraw with at least the honour of having freely done my duty.

Do not force me to wait till I am driven out in disgrace." "What!" cried the count, stunned, "you will abandon me?
You refuse to help me, you turn against me, you recognize the rights of this man in spite of my wishes ?" Albert bowed his head.

He was much moved, but still remained firm.
"My resolution is irrevocably taken," he replied.

"I can never consent to despoil your son." "Cruel, ungrateful boy!" cried M.de Commarin.