It was his only chance.

Then in the hurry of the succeeding incidents, the excitement that had attended them, and the imperative need for haste in getting the Vicomte to Choisy, he had put the intended return to his lodging from his mind--overlooking until now the fact that not only must he go back for the valise which he had bidden Brutus pack, but also for that far more precious passport.
It now became necessary to explain the circumstances to his companions, and in explaining them the whole affair, from Robespierre's refusal to grant him the life of the Vicomte down to the means to which he had had recourse, could not be kept from transpiring.

As she listened, Suzanne's expression changed into one of ineffable wonder.
"And you have done this for me ?" she cried, when at last he paused, "you have ruined your career and endangered your life ?" La Boulaye shrugged his shoulders.
"I spoke over-confidently when I said that I could obtain you the Vicomte's pardon.

There proved to be a factor on which I had not counted.

Nevertheless, what I had promised I must fulfil.