The young man was no other than he whose place I have occupied,--your legitimate son, M.Noel Gerdy himself." "Yes," said the count in a low tone, "Noel, that is his name, I remember." And then, with evident hesitation, he added: "Did he speak to you of his--of your mother ?" "Scarcely, sir.

He only told me that he came unknown to her; that he had accidentally discovered the secret which he revealed to me." M.de Commarin asked nothing further.

There was more for him to learn.
He remained for some time deep in thought.

The decisive moment had come; and he saw but one way to escape.
"Come, viscount," he said, in a tone so affectionate that Albert was astonished, "do not stand; sit down here by me, and let us discuss this matter.

Let us unite our efforts to shun, if possible, this great misfortune.