The step was serious; it would distress the entire family, and perhaps ruin his young comrade's future.
With that rapidity of decision which was one of the distinctive characteristics of his organization, he resolved to ask an audience of the governor, meantime requesting the keeper not to hasten Louis's departure.
Bonaparte was an excellent pupil, beloved in the school, and highly esteemed by the Marquis Tiburce Valence.

His request was immediately complied with.

Ushered into the governor's presence, he related everything, and, without blaming Valence in the least, he sought to exculpate Louis.
"Are you sure of what you are telling me, sir ?" asked the governor.
"Question your nephew himself.

I will abide by what he says." Valence was sent for.

He had already heard of Louis's expulsion, and was on his way to tell his uncle what had happened.