Like all energetic natures, Daniel felt a wonderful relief as soon as he
had formed an irrevocable decision. He would even have enjoyed the peace
that had once more returned to his mind, but for the savage hatred which
had accumulated in his heart, and which confused his thoughts whenever
he remembered Miss Brandon.
Providentially, it seemed to him, Maxime had not gone out, or, rather,
having been to breakfast at the English cafe with some of his friends,
he had just returned.
In ten words Daniel had told him every thing, and even shown him that
masterpiece of forgery, which he attributed to Miss Brandon’s mind, and
M. Elgin’s skill. Then, without heeding Maxime’s exclamations of wonder
and indignation, loud and deep as they were, he continued,--
“Now, my dear Maxime, listen to me. It may be my last will which I am
going to give in your charge.”