annoyance the matter might occasion him, he would accept it, as he would
bestow alms. It was that chord of generosity which Julien, diplomatic
for once in his life, essayed to touch by his confidence. Gaining
authority by their conversation of a few days before, he related all he
could of Gorka's visit, concealing the fact of that word of honor so
falsely given, which still oppressed him with a mortal weight. He told
how he had soothed the madman, how he conducted him to the station, then
he described the meeting of the two rivals twenty-four hours later. He
dwelt upon Alba's manner that evening and the infamy of the anonymous
letters written to Madame Steno's discarded lover and to her daughter.
And after he had reported the mysterious quarrel which had suddenly
arisen between Gorka and Chapron:

"I, therefore, promised to be his second," he concluded, "because I
believe it my absolute duty to do all I can to prevent the duel from
taking place. Only think of it. If it should take place, and if one of
them is killed or wounded, how can the affair be kept secret in this
gossiping city of Rome? And what remarks it will call forth! It is
evident that these two boys have quarrelled only on account of the
relations between Madame Steno and Maitland. By what strange
coincidence? Of that I know nothing.

"But there will not be a doubt in public opinion. And can you not see
additional anonymous letters written to Alba, Madame Gorka, Madame
Maitland?.... The men I do not care for.... Two out of three merit all
that comes to them. But those innocent creatures--is it not frightful?"

"Frightful, indeed," replied Montfanon; "it is that which renders those
adulterous adventures so hideous. There are many people who are affected
by it besides the guilty ones.... You see that, you who thought that