"There are eighteen of us here who would give our heads in exchange for yours."
"Well, I have come to give myself up to you."
From the top of the tower was heard a burst of savage laughter, and this exclamation,—
"Come on."
There was deep silence in the camp as they awaited the result.
Cimourdain added,—
"On one condition."
"What is it?"
"Listen."
"Speak."
"You hate me?"
"Yes."
"As for me, I love you. I am your brother."
The voice from the top of the tower replied,—
"Yes, Cain."
Cimourdain replied with a singular inflection, both loud and gentle,—
"Insult me, but listen. I have come to parley with you. Yes, you are my brothers. You are poor misguided men. I am your friend. I am light speaking to ignorance. Light always comprises brotherly love. Besides, have we not all the same mother, our native land? Well, listen to me. You will know later, or your children will know, or your children's children, that all that is taking place at this moment is done in fulfilment of the laws above, and that God has caused this Revolution. While waiting for the time when all minds, even yours, will understand this, and, all fanaticism, even yours will vanish, will any one pity your darkness? I have come to you to offer you my life; I do more, I extend my hand to you. I ask you the favor of destroying my life to save your own. I have full power, and what I say I am able to perform. It is a critical moment; I am making a last effort. Yes, he who speaks to you is a citizen, and in this citizen, yes, there is a priest. The citizen is fighting against you, but the priest implores you. Listen to me. Many of you have wives and children. I take the defence of your children and your wives. I take their defence against you. Oh, my brothers——"
