M. Leblanc took the pen.

Thénardier began to dictate:⁠—

“My daughter⁠—”

The prisoner shuddered, and raised his eyes to Thénardier.

“Put down ‘My dear daughter’⁠—” said Thénardier.

M. Leblanc obeyed.

Thénardier continued:⁠—

“Come instantly⁠—”

He paused:⁠—

“You address her as ‘thou,’ do you not?”