`Dearest Friend:—Accept my forgiveness,
my benediction, my love! You have
acted nobly—worthily of yourself.
`When you read this I shall be no more:
but do not think that either you or Marie
caused my death. Far from it! I wish you
happiness, and should have been content to
live for you, had not a circumstance happened
this afternoon, which drives me to put
an end to my existence.
`In my desk my friends will find the inscription
I desire to have engraved upon my
tombstone. You will see to it, my dear
Maurice—you, who have served me so faithfully
until now.
`I have but a word more to say. Marie
loves you, you say; her affection is worth
more than countless treasures. You will,
therefore, live for her, and make her happy.
`Farewell—forever!
`Ernest.'
