Inwardly I cursed my imprudence, and loaded myself with reproaches.

Then the thought suggested itself, "Could my uncle be right--was I indeed illegitimate ?" "No, no," I exclaimed, unconsciously aloud; "it is not true--I feel that it is false.

A base falsehood got up to rob me of my good name--the only treasure left me by Providence when she deprived me of my parents.

Uncle," I exclaimed, standing erect before him, "I will never part with it.

I will maintain my equality with you and your son to the last moment of my life." Overcome by excitement and agitation, I sank down into a chair, my head dropped upon the table and I sobbed convulsively.
"Geoffrey," said my uncle, in a low voice, in which an unusual touch of kindness mingled, "calm down this furious passion.