I don't excuse it.

The thought of it burns like fire.

But it wasn't done maliciously; it wasn't done falsely; it was done inconsiderately; and when it was done, it seemed irrevocable.

But it wasn't; I could have prevented, I could have stooped the mischief; and I didn't! I can never outlive that." "I know," said the general relentlessly, "that you have never attempted any defence.

That has been to your credit with me.