The Romance of the Forest

The Marquis de Montalt, having seen La Motte taken to prison, goes to Vaceau to ensure that Theodore’s court martial results in a death sentence. Louis, who is stationed in town, befriends Theodore and learns of Adeline’s plight. He perceives that Theodore is his rival for Adeline’s love. Louis accompanies the party back to Vaceau and conducts La Luc to the prison, while Adeline tries to hold up Clara’s spirits. La Luc and Theodore discuss his plight, both attempting not to give in to despair. Louis struggles to hide his hurt that Adeline favors Theodore.

La Motte, in prison, is sunk in grief at his misfortunes and reflects on his crime. While living at the abbey, he had become desperate for money and attempted robbery. The man he attacked and left for dead was the Marquis. La Motte hid the jewels he took in the tomb and, in guilt, often went to check on their hiding place, which accounted for his long absences. When the Marquis promised to forgive his crimes, La Motte “had neither resolution or virtue sufficient to reject the terms” and consented to give