Let my death, if you kill me, be an expiation for everything.

Be gentle with your wife; and if you survive me, do not make her life one prolonged existence of agony." "Silence, or I shall look upon you as a dastard," returned Norbert fiercely.
"Miserable fool!" said De Croisenois.

"On guard, then, and may heaven decide the issue!" There was a sharp clash as their swords crossed, and the combat began with intense vigor.
The space upon which the rays of the lantern cast a glimmering and uncertain light was but a small one; and while one of the combatants was in complete shade the other was in the light, and exposed to thrusts which he could not see.

This was fatal to Croisenois, and, as he took a step forward, Norbert made a fierce lunge which pierced him to the heart.
The unfortunate man threw up his arms above his head; his sword escaping from his nerveless fingers and his knees bending under him, he fell heavily backwards without a word escaping from his lips.

Thrice he endeavored to regain his feet, and thrice he failed in his attempts.