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 you must not turn your thoughts entirely upon him; you must now think of yourself—think of escaping from the castle."

"Of escaping!" repeated Madeline.

"Yes, if you wish to avoid cruelty and oppression."

"Explain yourself," said Madeline.

"I will if you promise to compose yourself—if you promise not to interrupt me—briefly and explicitly inform you of the sufferings which await you if you continue in the castle."

"I promise," cried Madeline.

"To begin then (said Lafroy). After I had delivered the Count's letter to the Marquis, I stepped into an adjoining room to listen to the conversation which would ensue between him and D'Alembert in consequence of it. Long I had not remained in my concealment, ere my ears were shocked by hearing D'Alembert deride the assertion contained in the letter, and begin a horrid narrative of all he knew concerning your father. I will not pain you by repeating what the Marquis said; suffice it to say, he vowed