Page:The Writings of Prosper Merimee-Volume 1.djvu/244

166 myself guilty of an unkindness if I were to allow him to die alone. It is not possible that you think otherwise, you who are so kind and so good. Think of it, madam; for my part, I should consider it downright cruelty."

"Just now I asked you to make me that promise in the name of your good aunt—in behalf of the friendship which you have for me. Now, it is on account of that unhappy girl herself that I ask it. If you really love her"

"Ah! madam, I beg of you do not compare thus, things incapable of comparison. Believe me, madam, it pains me exceedingly to refuse any request of yours whatsoever, but in this case, I believe that honour compels me. That word displeases you? Forget it. Only, madam, in my turn, let me implore you for pity of that unfortunate girl—and also a little for pity of me. If I have done wrong—if I have been the means of contributing to her ruin—I should now take care of her. It would be terrible to abandon her. I should never forgive myself. No, I can not abandon her. You will not exact that of me, madam."

"She would not lack for care from others. But, answer me, Max: do you love her?"

"Do I love her! Do I love her! No, I do not love her. That is a word which is out of