But none the less I saved you.

Why should you bear me ill will?
It is no fault of mine if I hold your estate.' 'It is not on account of that.' 'Why is it then ?' I could have explained that it was because he had betrayed his comrades, because his daughter hated him, because he had ill-used his wife, because my father regarded him as the source of all his troubles--but the salon of the Empress was no place for a family quarrel, so I merely shrugged my shoulders, and was silent.
'Well, I am very sorry,' said he, 'for I had the best of intentions towards you.

I could have advanced you, for there are few men in France who exercise more influence.

But I have one request to make to you.' 'What is that, sir ?' 'I have a number of personal articles, belonging to your father--his sword, his seals, a deskful of letters, some silver plate--such things in short as you would wish to keep in memory of him.

I should be glad if you will come to Grosbois--if it is only for one night--and look over these things, choosing what you wish to take away.