After a little while he succeeded in controlling his emotion, and
in a comparatively calm voice he exclaimed: "But it is useless to
distract one's mind with an incurable evil. Let us speak of
yourself, M. Ferailleur. To what do I owe the honor of this
visit?"

"To your own kind offer, monsieur, and the hope that you will help
me in refuting this slander, and wreaking vengeance upon those who
have ruined me."

"Oh! yes, I will help you in that to the full extent of my power,"
exclaimed the baron. But experience reminded him that
confidential disclosures ought not to be made with the doors open,
so he rose, shut them, and returning to Pascal, said: "Explain in
what way I can be of service to you, monsieur."

It was not without many misgivings that Pascal had presented
himself at the baron's house, but after what he had heard he felt
no further hesitation; he could speak with perfect freedom. "It
is quite unnecessary for me to tell you, Monsieur le Baron," he
began, "that the cards which made me win were inserted in the pack
by M. de Coralth--that is proven beyond question, and whatever the
consequences may be, I shall have my revenge. But before striking
him, I wish to reach the man whose instrument he was."

"What! you suppose----"

"I don't suppose--I am sure that M. de Coralth acted in obedience
to the instructions of some other scoundrel whose courage does not