The Comes had not ratified her renunciation.

That renunciation was therefore a nullity; and no swearing, no signing, no sealing, could turn that nullity into a reality.
Which of these two mighty competitors had the better case may perhaps be doubted.

What could not be doubted was that neither would obtain the prize without a struggle which would shake the world.

Nor can we justly blame either for refusing to give way to the other.

For, on this occasion, the chief motive which actuated them was, not greediness, but the fear of degradation and ruin.