History has only handed down to us the names of the State counsellors who accompanied Pierre Seguier, but not those of the other commissioners, of whom it is only mentioned that there were six from the parliament of Grenoble, and two presidents.  The counsellor, or reporter of the State, Laubardemont, who had directed them in all, was at their head.  Joseph often whispered to them with the most studied politeness, glancing at Laubardemont with a ferocious sneer.

It was arranged that an armchair should serve as a bar; and all were silent in expectation of the prisoner’s answer.

He spoke in a soft and clear voice: 

“Say to Monsieur le Chancelier that I have the right of appeal to the parliament of Paris, and to object to my judges, because two of them are my declared enemies, and at their head one of my friends, Monsieur de Seguier himself, whom I maintained in his charge.

“But I will spare you much trouble, gentlemen, by pleading guilty to the whole charge of conspiracy, arranged and conducted by myself alone.  It is my wish to die.  I have nothing to add for myself; but if you would be just, you will not harm the life of him whom the King has pronounced to be the most honest man in France, and who dies for my sake alone.”

“Summon him,” said Laubardemont.

Two guards entered the apartment of De Thou, and led him forth.  He advanced, and bowed gravely, while an angelical smile played upon his lips.  Embracing Cinq-Mars, “Here at last is our day of glory,” said he.  “We are about to gain heaven and eternal happiness.”

“We understand,” said Laubardemont, “we have been given to understand by Monsieur de Cinq-Mars himself, that you were acquainted with this conspiracy?”

De Thou answered instantly, and without hesitation.  A half-smile was still on his lips, and his eyes cast down.

“Gentlemen, I have passed my life in studying human laws, and I know that the testimony of one accused person can not condemn another.  I can also repeat what I said before, that I should not have been believed had I denounced the King’s brother without proof.  You perceive, then, that my life and death entirely rest with myself.  I have, however, well weighed the one and the other.  I have clearly foreseen that whatever life I may hereafter lead, it could not but be most unhappy after the loss of Monsieur de Cinq-Mars.  I therefore acknowledge and confess that I was aware of his conspiracy.  I did my utmost to prevent it, to deter him from it.  He believed me to be his only and faithful friend, and I would not betray him.  Therefore, I condemn myself by the very laws which were set forth by my father, who, I hope, forgives me.”

At these words, the two friends precipitated themselves into each other’s arms.

Cinq-Mars exclaimed: 

“My friend, my friend, how bitterly I regret that I have caused your death!  Twice I have betrayed you; but you shall know in what manner.”