"
These suggestions of the Colonel were not without their
effect; for, in the sudden swelling of the prisoner's
chest, as allusion was made to the disgrace that would
attach to his memory, there was evidence of a high and
generous spirit, to whom obloquy was far more hateful
than even death itself.
"I do promise," he at length replied, stepping forward,
and uncovering himself as before,--"if no one appear to
justify my conduct at the hour I have named, a full
disclosure of all I know touching this affair shall be
made. And may God, of his infinite mercy, grant, for
Captain de Haldimar's sake, as well as mine, I may not
then be wholly deserted!"
There was something so peculiarly solemn and impressive
in the manner in which the unhappy man now expressed
himself, that a feeling of the utmost awe crept into the
bosoms of the surrounding throng; and more than one
veteran of the grenadiers, the company to which Halloway
belonged, was heard to relieve his chest of the long
pent-up sigh that struggled for release.
"Enough, prisoner," rejoined the Governor; "on this
condition do I grant your request; but recollect,--your
disclosure ensures no hope of pardon, unless, indeed,
you have the fullest proof to offer in your defence.
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