Page:Marquis de Sade - Adelaide of Brunswick.djvu/45

 my prince, it is often difficult to repair the damage once it has been done."

"Louis, do not torment me any more. I am the most unhappy of men and I have made my virtuous wife the most unfortunate of women."

"And what about the reason which you are giving for her disgrace? Do you think anybody is going to believe that after the sublime response which she has just made to the Emperor? The one who has dictated that letter is now accused of treason. You see, Frederick, how passion blinds and how it makes one do the worst of things. Oh, forgive me, Milord. Forgive me if I speak to you in this manner. My age and your rank should keep me from doing so; but when the heart is touched it is hard to be silent. It is from my heart that I have spoken and I hope you will pardon me for being so frank."

"Oh, my friend," said Frederick embracing the marquis, "may your good heart guide you better in all the circumstances in life than mine has guided me."